Renowned filmmaker Ridley Scott returned to theaters on August 28 with “The Dog Stars,” a post-apocalyptic thriller adapted from Peter Heller’s 2012 novel. The film centers on Hig, played by Jacob Elordi, a former pilot who navigates life in a pandemic-ravaged world alongside his dog Jasper and a wary companion, Bangley, portrayed by Josh Brolin. While Bangley remains fiercely protective of their territory against hostile outsiders, Hig adopts a more hopeful outlook, striving to rebuild society. At 88, Scott echoes this optimism, expressing a desire to offer hope through the movie’s narrative.
Scott, known for his expansive career spanning nearly five decades, has established a reputation for large-scale, action-driven films such as “Gladiator,” “Black Hawk Down,” and “The Martian.” Yet with “The Dog Stars,” he ventures into a more introspective realm while delivering some of his most intense sequences, including a standout scene filmed using night-vision technology that showcases a violent confrontation. The film also features Margaret Qualley as Hig’s new companion, Cima, and Allison Janney in the role of a mysterious former flight attendant. Scott revealed inspirations for a key setting, an airport hangar scene, drawn from “The Shining” and his own film legacy, including nods to his earlier work “Blade Runner.”
Scott’s career began relatively late, with his directorial debut “The Duellists” at nearly 40 years old. Before that, he directed more than 2,000 television commercials, often personally operating the camera—a practice he maintained throughout his film career despite skepticism about multitasking directing and camera work. This hands-on approach is a hallmark of his filmmaking style.
Despite his success, Scott has faced critical challenges, notably with the initial reception of “Blade Runner,” which was widely criticized upon release, including a harsh review by prominent critic Pauline Kael. Reflecting on his career, Scott described press coverage as unpredictable and potentially misleading, choosing to avoid reviews altogether to protect his creative focus.
Scott has been nominated for four Academy Awards, including three for directing. He acknowledged the ups and downs of his career with candor, expressing particular pride in projects like the 2013 thriller “The Counselor,” despite its mixed critical response. He also praised Denis Villeneuve’s adaptation of “Dune,” a project Scott himself was initially attached to before withdrawing due to production concerns.
Later this year, Scott is scheduled to receive an honorary Academy Award at the Governors Awards ceremony on November 15—a recognition he says he welcomes, albeit surprised by its timing.
Beyond “The Dog Stars,” Scott continues working actively in film. He is preparing to start production on “Treasure Island” this fall, starring Hugh Jackman, and maintains ambitions to realize projects such as a Bee Gees biopic and an impressionistic musical inspired by the works of Bob Fosse. Far from considering retirement, Scott remains engaged and passionate about filmmaking and creative pursuits.