Ridley Scott, the legendary filmmaker behind Alien and Blade Runner, has seen his latest sci-fi venture, The Dog Stars, make a surprising comeback. After a disappointing theatrical run, the film has now claimed the top spot on Prime Video, proving that streaming can offer a second act for movies that struggle in cinemas.
Starring Josh Brolin and Jacob Elordi, The Dog Stars marks Scott's return to the sci-fi genre after nearly a decade, following 2017's Alien: Covenant. The film, based on Peter Heller's acclaimed novel, also features Margaret Qualley, Guy Pearce, and Benedict Wong. Despite the star-studded cast and Scott's pedigree, the movie received lukewarm reviews, with a 41% critics' score on Rotten Tomatoes, though audiences were more receptive at 69%.
The film's theatrical performance was underwhelming, grossing just under $40 million worldwide. This adds to a string of recent box office disappointments for Scott, including Napoleon and Gladiator II, both of which struggled to recoup their hefty budgets. However, The Dog Stars has now found a new audience on streaming, becoming the most-watched movie on Prime Video.
Set in a post-apocalyptic world, The Dog Stars follows Hig (Brolin), a pilot who, along with a survivalist named Bangley (Elordi), has carved out a solitary existence. Their isolated life is disrupted when Hig picks up a mysterious radio transmission, prompting him to venture into the unknown in search of hope and humanity. The film's themes of survival and connection resonate strongly in today's world, perhaps explaining its streaming success.
For those who missed it in theaters, The Dog Stars is now available on VOD platforms like Prime Video and Apple TV. If you're looking for more sci-fi thrills, check out our list of mind-bending sci-fi thrillers that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Scott's recent box office struggles have been well-documented, but his films often find a second life on streaming. Gladiator II, for instance, became one of the most-watched movies on Paramount+ after its theatrical run. This trend suggests that audiences are still eager to see Scott's work, even if they prefer to watch from the comfort of their homes.
As The Dog Stars continues to dominate Prime Video, it's worth noting that the platform has a strong lineup of sci-fi and thriller content. For more recommendations, check out Prime Video's best movies this week or explore the greatest action movies of the 21st century.
Whether you're a longtime Ridley Scott fan or new to his work, The Dog Stars offers a compelling narrative and stunning visuals that are best experienced on a big screen, but it's just as impactful on a smaller one. So, if you're in the mood for a thought-provoking sci-fi adventure, this is one to add to your watchlist.
Stay tuned for more updates on Ridley Scott's future projects and the ever-evolving landscape of streaming entertainment.
