Director Ben Leonberg Reveals Meaning Behind “Good Boy” Ending

The independent film Good Boy has emerged as one of the unexpected successes of 2025, grossing over $2.25 million during its opening weekend. Directed by Ben Leonberg, who features his own dog, a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever named Indy, the film has captivated audiences while sparking conversations about its cliffhanger ending. With a modest budget of $2.3 million, the movie has received positive reviews, contributing to its growing popularity.

The narrative centers around Indy and his owner, Todd, played by actor Shane Jensen, who relocate from urban life to a remote country house inherited from Todd’s grandfather. As they settle in, Indy begins to sense eerie supernatural occurrences—shadows, ghostly figures, and unsettling noises—which remain unnoticed by humans. The bond between Indy and Todd faces a significant test as Todd’s health declines and his behavior becomes increasingly erratic, ultimately leading to a harrowing climax.

In a poignant scene, Todd succumbs to the darkness that envelops him, covered in an ominous black substance. He reassures Indy that he is a good dog but insists that he “can’t save him” and must remain where he is. As Todd transforms into a skeleton and fades into the shadows, Indy is left alone, trapped in the basement with the doors closed behind him.

Leonberg shares his interpretation of this moment, stating, “I always looked at it as, Indy’s at a crossroads. His owner has not been able to escape his fate.” The tension escalates when Vera, Todd’s sister, enters the scene, opening the basement doors in search of her brother and Indy. Leonberg explains that this moment represents a critical choice for Indy: “Do I stay in the darkness, or do I go into the light?”

The film’s conclusion sees Indy opting for the light, ultimately leaving the basement with Vera. Leonberg perceives this as a positive resolution. “I always look at it as a happy ending—there’s more life ahead for Indy’s character,” he notes. This choice signifies a pivotal theme in Good Boy: the struggle between life and grief.

The film draws parallels between Indy’s journey and that of Todd’s grandfather, who similarly faced a supernatural fate alongside his own dog. By leaving with Vera, Indy embodies the decision that the grandfather’s dog failed to make.

According to Leonberg, Good Boy also redefines the ghost story genre by shifting the perspective to a dog. “This story is an inversion of how most people learn about death,” he explains. The narrative invites audiences to consider the experience from Indy’s viewpoint as he grapples with an ever-looming dark force, ultimately redefining familiar themes of mortality and companionship.

In a landscape filled with conventional horror films, Good Boy offers a fresh take that resonates with viewers, showcasing the depth of emotion that can arise from a simple yet profound premise. As the film continues to gain traction, its unique storytelling and heartfelt performances are likely to keep audiences engaged long after the credits roll.