Jacob Elordi, Margaret Qualley Lead Ridley Scott’s Film

Jacob Elordi Steps into the Spotlight

Jacob Elordi is set to star in Ridley Scott’s The Dog Stars, officially joining the project in January. He’ll play Hig, a crop duster pilot surviving alone on an abandoned Colorado airfield.

With the world in ruins, Hig navigates the desolate landscape between the mountains and the Great Plains. His journey is one of survival, solitude, and unexpected connections.

Paul Mescal Was Set to Lead The Dog Stars

Paul Mescal was originally cast as the lead in Ridley Scott’s The Dog Stars, marking his second collaboration with the legendary director after Gladiator II. His rising star power made him a perfect fit for the intense post-apocalyptic thriller.

However, Mescal had to step away due to scheduling conflicts with his role in the highly anticipated Beatles biopic. While fans were eager to see him in the film, fate had other plans—enter Jacob Elordi to take the reins.

Margaret Qualley Joins the Cast

Margaret Qualley has officially joined Ridley Scott’s The Dog Stars, adding even more firepower to the cast. Fresh off her buzzworthy performance in The Substance, she’s set to deliver another gripping role.

Qualley will portray Cima, a young doctor and the daughter of Guy Pearce’s character. With her proven versatility, fans can’t wait to see her share the screen with Elordi in this high-stakes survival drama.

Josh Brolin Reunites with Ridley Scott

Veteran actor Josh Brolin is teaming up again with director Ridley Scott for The Dog Stars. The duo last worked together on the critically acclaimed American Gangster.

Brolin steps into the role of Bangley, a hardened ex-Marine and survivalist. He’ll share the screen with Jacob Elordi’s Hig, who takes refuge on a military base under Bangley’s watchful eye.

Guy Pearce Joins the Ensemble

Guy Pearce is stepping into The Dog Stars, marking another reunion with Ridley Scott after their work on Prometheus. His addition to the cast brings a wealth of experience and gravitas.

Pearce takes on the role of a protective, world-weary father to Margaret Qualley’s Cima. With his knack for playing complex characters, fans are eager to see how he navigates this apocalyptic landscape.

A High-Stakes Survival Story in The Dog Stars

In a near-future dystopia, a deadly flu has wiped out most of humanity, leaving survivors in a lawless world. Hig, a loner pilot, shares an abandoned Colorado airbase with a tough ex-Marine, fending off intruders and searching for supplies.

One day, a crackling radio signal offers a glimmer of hope, proof that life might exist beyond their isolation. With nothing left to lose, Hig takes off on a dangerous journey, risking everything for a chance at something more.

Release Date on the Horizon

While no official release date has been announced, industry speculation suggests The Dog Stars could hit theaters in 2027 or 2028, depending on production timelines and the cast’s availability.

Fans will need to exercise patience, but the promise of a compelling story makes the wait worthwhile. Stay tuned for official announcements as production progresses.

20th Century Studios Backs the Project

The Dog Stars finds its home under the banner of 20th Century Studios. With a history of producing blockbuster hits, the studio’s involvement signals high expectations.

Their collaboration with Ridley Scott aims to bring this gripping tale to the big screen with the quality it deserves. Audiences can anticipate a cinematic experience that’s both visually stunning and emotionally resonant.

Ridley Scott’s Recent Triumph: “Gladiator II”*

Before tackling The Dog Stars, Ridley Scott delivered a massive hit with Gladiator II. The sequel raked in nearly $460 million, making it one of the highest-grossing films of his career.

This box office triumph proves Scott still knows how to captivate audiences. With that momentum, fans are eager to see him bring his signature style to the post-apocalyptic world of The Dog Stars.

Screenplay Penned by Mark L. Smith

The screenplay for The Dog Stars is crafted by Mark L. Smith. Known for his work on The Revenant, Smith brings a knack for intense, character-driven narratives.

His adaptation of Heller’s novel is expected to capture the raw emotion and survivalist themes of the source material. Audiences can look forward to a script that’s both gripping and thought-provoking.

Production Kicks Off in Italy

Though unconfirmed, some reports hint that filming may take place in Italy, with the Dolomites possibly standing in for the rugged landscapes of the Great Plains and the Rockies.

Ridley Scott is known for choosing striking landscapes to elevate his storytelling. With such a dramatic backdrop, the film’s post-apocalyptic world is bound to feel both haunting and mesmerizing.

Adaptation of a Celebrated Novel

The Dog Stars draws its narrative from Peter Heller’s acclaimed 2012 novel. The book received praise for its poignant exploration of survival and humanity.

Translating this story to film offers a fresh perspective on the beloved tale. Readers and new audiences alike are eager to see this adaptation come to life.

Oscar Contenders Bring Star Power

The Dog Stars boasts a cast fresh off major awards-season success. Margaret Qualley, Josh Brolin, and Guy Pearce have all starred in 2025 Best Picture nominees, proving their powerhouse status.

With The Brutalist, Dune: Part Two, and The Substance making waves, some believe the film’s cast brings strong awards-season momentum to The Dog Stars. However, it remains to be seen whether this survival thriller will enter the awards conversation itself.

Ridley Scott’s Prolific Directorial Journey

At 87, Ridley Scott continues to helm major cinematic projects, showcasing his enduring passion for filmmaking. His recent works, including The Last Duel, House of Gucci, and Napoleon, highlight his versatility across genres.

From historical epics to sci-fi thrillers, Scott proves time and again why he remains one of Hollywood’s most respected directors. His relentless drive ensures audiences can anticipate more compelling narratives from this legendary filmmaker.

From Page to Screen

Turning a beloved novel into a film is no easy feat, but Ridley Scott is no stranger to literary adaptations. The Dog Stars, based on Peter Heller’s novel, brings its haunting, poetic world to life in a visually stunning way.

Fans of the book are eager to see how Scott translates its introspective tone and survivalist themes. Will he stay faithful to Heller’s vision or put his own signature spin on it? We can’t wait to find out!

While Ridley Scott gears up for The Dog Stars, his Gladiator II star Paul Mescal is Making Headlines for Auctioning off his Film Wardrobe for Charity.

Anticipation Builds for “The Dog Stars” Release

With a stellar cast and a visionary director at the helm, The Dog Stars is poised to be a significant addition to the post-apocalyptic genre. As production gears up, anticipation among fans and critics alike continues to grow.

While an official release date has yet to be announced, the film’s compelling premise and talented ensemble cast have already generated considerable buzz. Stay tuned for more updates as this exciting project progresses.

Discover the haunting story of Margaret Qualley’s The Substance which Delivers a Chilling Take on Beauty and Aging.

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