It seems like every A-lister wants to be involved in Ridley Scott’s upcoming film, The Dog Stars. First, Paul Mescal was due to lead the post-apocalyptic thriller — his second project with Scott after Gladiator II. But according to Variety, the actor ran into scheduling issues, thanks to his role in the Beatles biopic. Luckily, fellow internet boyfriend Elordi reportedly came to the rescue, and is now leading the film adaptation of Peter Heller’s cult-favourite novel.
But it doesn’t stop there. The official cast is not only confirmed, but we have visuals of them in action, and let’s just say, it’s looking good. Here’s everything we know about The Dog Stars so far…
Our first look at The Dog Stars
First look at Ridley Scott’s ‘THE DOG STARS’ starring Jacob Elordi, Margaret Qualley, and Josh Brolin.
In theaters this August.
(Source: https://t.co/Fdk0J1r6F0) pic.twitter.com/emWRVKOxmX
— Film Updates (@FilmUpdates) April 15, 2026
In an exclusive with Esquire, director Ridley Scot also gave us a sneak peek at what to expect, noting that while there are currently toomany apocalyptic films in the works, this one will feel different and “surprising,” as it leans more into an intimate, than just a straight survival story. And if you’re a fan of Peter Heller’s novel that the film is adapting, there’s no need to worry as Scott emphasises that it will retain that book’s lonely, reflective tone about what remains when everything disappears.
Who is in the cast?
The cast as it stands is Jacob Elordi, Margaret Qualley, Josh Brolin, and Guy Pearce. Qualley will reportedly play Cima, a young doctor and daughter of a world-weary rancher, to be played by Pearce. Brolin will play an ex-Marine, while Elordi will play Hig, a pilot.
What is the film about?
The plot? Think of it as a buddy cop film crossed with a post-pandemic dystopia. Elordi is set to play a loner pilot holed up on a desolate Colorado airbase with his trusty dog and a grizzled ex-Marine who’s more Rambo than rescue. Set in a near future where a mysterious pandemic has wiped out most of the U.S. population, the odd couple has to figure out how to coexist while fighting off intruders.
Just as they settle into their new normal, a faint radio signal crackles through the pilot’s 1956 Cessna. It’s a glimmer of hope, suggesting that life beyond their bleak bubble might actually exist. With nothing left to lose, our daring protagonist takes a leap of faith and soars past the point of no return.
When will the film be released?
It has been confirmed by 20th Century that The Dog Stars will be released towards the end of August 2026. While we don’t know exact date of release in Australia, stay tuned here for updates.
Stay inspired, follow us.
Feature images: one, two.
