(SeaPRwire) – Certain filmmakers become inseparable from specific genres, even if their work spans various styles. John Carpenter is synonymous with horror, M. Night Shyamalan is known for his twist endings, and Ridley Scott is the master of science fiction. Although he has directed acclaimed epics like Gladiator and dramas like Thelma and Louise, his impact on sci-fi is undeniable, ranging from Alien and Blade Runner to The Martian.
At 88 years old, Scott continues his prolific career. His upcoming project, The Dog Stars, is a post-apocalyptic adventure based on Peter Heller’s novel of the same name. During CinemaCon 2026, 20th Century Studios debuted the first trailer for the film, which stars Jacob Elordi, Margaret Qualley, and Josh Brolin. The trailer is available to watch below:
“What did you do before the world collapsed?” Cima (Qualley) asks Hig (Elordi). “I spent time with my wife and played with my dog,” he answers. “I felt incredibly lucky every day.”
However, the current world is far more grim. After a flu pandemic decimated the population, Hig, Cima, and a former Marine named Bangley (Brolin) join forces to seek a better life, traveling in Hig’s Cessna aircraft. The film’s cast also features Guy Pearce as Cima’s father, alongside Allison Janney and Benedict Wong.
The Dog Stars marks Scott’s first science fiction film since 2017’s Alien: Covenant, and it may be his last for some time. While he is linked to several upcoming projects, most are thrillers or historical dramas, making this a rare genre return. The screenplay was written by Mark L. Smith, the writer behind The Revenant and Twisters, who also has sci-fi experience from writing the 2020 George Clooney film The Midnight Sky.
Peter Heller’s novel is highly regarded within the post-apocalyptic literary genre, and with Ridley Scott’s legendary direction, this adaptation could be a major career milestone. The film is currently set for an August 2026 release, marking another chapter in one of Hollywood’s most respected and varied filmographies.
Though many details are still unknown, one major question arises from the trailer: will the dog, Jasper, survive? Many genre films use the death of a pet to heighten emotional stakes, but since “dog” is featured in the title, there is hope that Jasper will reach the better world his owner is searching for.
The Dog Stars arrives in theaters on August 28, 2026.
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