Ridley Scott's new movie is a "change of pace" for the Alien and Gladiator director as first reactions call it an "impressive post-apocalyptic ride"

2026 has been a bumper year for new projects from big directors, from Steven Spielberg's Disclosure Day to Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey. Next up is Alien helmer Riley Scott, whose upcoming movie The Dog Stars has opened to positive first reactions praising the director's change of pace.

"Ridley Scott’s The Dog Stars is a surprisingly humble and emotionally weighted change of pace for the director," says Future of the Force's Phil Roberts following The Dog Stars world premiere in London on August 20. "With its impressive cinematography, endless desolation and magnetic performances from Jacob Elordi and Josh Brolin, it’s an impressive post-apocalyptic ride."

Similarly, YouTuber Patrick T writes, "The Dog Stars is soothing and gruelling. A western set at the end of the world with a big heart. Some intense FURY ROAD energy mixed with quiet campfires under the stars. Acoustic guitars, Josh Brolin smoking cigars, and a dog. Ridley Scott knows what we want."

The post-apocalyptic movie's emotional themes took other critics by surprise too, including Film Hounds' Gavin Spoors. "Ridley Scott has proven yet again that his finger is on the pulse when it comes to current themes. A warm, human, post-apocalyptic drama about the need for community." And film critic Liz Slade adds, "It’s quiet and contemplative, which I didn’t expect, with unexpected moments of ferocity and violence… I think Ridley Scott has created something unique."

The Dog Stars follows a young pilot named Hig (Jacob Elordi), who, alongside military survivalist Bangley (Josh Brolin), lives in an isolated homestead safe from the post-apocalyptic world outside. However, when he hears a mysterious radio transmission, Hig ventures into the unknown in search of the hope and humanity he still believes exists. The movie also stars Margaret Qualley, Allison Janney, Benedict Wong, and Guy Pearce.

The new film marks Scott's first project since his 2024 action sequel Gladiator 2. The Dog Stars is based on the best-selling book of the same name by Peter Heller, and is written by The Revenant's co-screenwriter Mark L. Smith.

The Dog Stars hits cinemas on August 26. For more, keep up with new movies on the way.