20th Century Studios has unveiled the initial trailer for Ridley Scott's latest sci-fi feature, 'The Dog Stars.' Based on Peter Heller's 2012 novel and adapted by Mark L. Smith, the film stars Jacob Elordi, Josh Brolin, and Margaret Qualley, depicting a civilian pilot and an ex-Marine navigating a post-pandemic world. This marks Scott's return to 20th Century after his work on 'Gladiator II' and is scheduled for an August 28 theatrical release.

Ridley Scott's 'The Dog Stars' Unveils First Trailer, Set to Hit Theaters This August

On April 16, 2026, 20th Century Studios officially launched the first trailer for 'The Dog Stars,' a highly anticipated post-apocalyptic thriller directed by the acclaimed Ridley Scott. The film is slated for a theatrical release on August 28, 2026.

Adapted from Peter Heller's compelling 2012 novel, the screenplay was crafted by Mark L. Smith, known for his work on 'Twisters' and 'The Revenant.' The movie features a stellar cast including Jacob Elordi in the role of Hig, Josh Brolin as Bangley, and Margaret Qualley portraying Cima. The narrative follows a civilian pilot and a former Marine as they strive to survive in a world devastated by a pandemic that has decimated most of humanity.

This project marks Ridley Scott's return to 20th Century Studios, a studio with which he previously had a successful five-year collaboration from 2012 to 2017, yielding films like 'Prometheus' and 'The Martian.' 'The Dog Stars' is Scott's immediate follow-up to his 2024 film, 'Gladiator II.'

Interestingly, the film's production journey saw some casting changes. Paul Mescal, who featured in Scott's 'Gladiator' sequel, was initially cast as the lead for 'The Dog Stars' but withdrew in early 2025 due to scheduling conflicts with Sam Mendes' Beatles biopics. Variety reported in January 2025 that Jacob Elordi was in discussions to replace Mescal, despite his own busy schedule filming 'Wuthering Heights' and the third season of HBO's 'Euphoria.' Despite these challenges, Elordi remained committed, and production commenced in Italy in April 2025.

A Fresh Perspective on Post-Apocalyptic Narratives

The release of the trailer for 'The Dog Stars' reignites the fascination with post-apocalyptic themes, offering a fresh take on human resilience and survival. Ridley Scott's proven expertise in crafting immersive sci-fi worlds, combined with a compelling storyline and a talented cast, promises a thought-provoking cinematic experience. The film not only explores the physical challenges of a world reshaped by disaster but also delves into the psychological and emotional landscapes of its survivors, making it a must-watch for fans of the genre.