The Dog Stars
- Gus Keller
- 3 days ago
- 1 min read
The Dog Stars stifles itself. Despite promising components, it never actualizes. Its premise is primed for social commentary, moral conflicts, and profound character arcs. However, the script instead prioritizes a meandering plot that's too thin to excite while too scattered to develop emotions. Dialogue is heavy-handed, often telling rather than showing. There are familiar formulas, which only disconnect viewers further. Still, it has humor, setup/payoff, and themes about processing grief through community. The acting offers engaging side performances, but Elordi's central stoicism can feel more flat than layered. Therefore, The Dog Stars ends up distant and muddled.
Technically, The Dog Stars alternates between handsomely made and oddly messy. Its direction sometimes abandons its somber mood. The cinematography's impressive aerial shots plus natural lighting enhance the rustic atmosphere. Fumbling momentum and structure, its editing is alienating. Vintage plane mechanics as well as bursts of action define the soundscape. Alongside bluesy scoring, its music has an impactful needle drop bookend. The production design's rugged, mountainous setting becomes thematic. Though its cast has great fame, Elordi's fit seems questionable. The effects combine fair stunts with passable CGI. Consequently, The Dog Stars is a missed opportunity.
Writing: 4/10
Direction: 5/10
Cinematography: 8/10
Acting: 7/10
Editing: 4/10
Sound: 7/10
Score/Soundtrack: 7/10
Production Design: 7/10
Casting: 8/10
Effects: 7/10
Overall Score: 6.4/10
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