A Boy and His Dog • The Next Reel

“You’re so funny when you’re sexually frustrated.”In 1975, producer Alvy Moore teamed up with director L.Q. Jones to bring Harlan Ellison’s 1969 novella A Boy and His Dog to the big screen. With a budget of just $400,000, Jones cast newcomer Don Johnson alongside canine actor Tiger in this post-apocalyptic sci-fi that would go on to earn acclaim and cult status. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we kick off the 1976 Hugo Awards Best Dramatic Presentation Nominees series with a conversation about A Boy and His Dog.Here's a hint at what we talk about:We dive into the fascinating dystopian world depicted in the film, analyzing how the survivalist society shapes the animalistic characters. We discuss the interesting gender politics and debate whether the controversial elements hold up today. And we talk about the great casting, including Don Johnson's standout performance and the fitting voice work for Blood.Here are a few other points in our discussion:The shocking ending and how it subverts expectationsThe hilarious dynamic between Vic and BloodThe lo-fi retro aesthetic of the visualsHarlan Ellison's legacy in sci-fiIn the end, we find A Boy and His Dog to be a wholly unique entry in the post-apocalyptic sci-fi genre that was ahead of its time. Despite flaws, it presents a creative vision of humanity's dark future that leaves a lasting impression. We have a great time talking about it, so check it out then tune in. The Next Reel – when the movie ends, our conversation begins!Film SundriesWatch this on Apple or Amazon, or find other places at JustWatchScript OptionsTheatrical trailerOriginal MaterialLetterboxd The Next Reel Family of Film Shows:Cinema Scope: Bridging Genres, Subgenres, and Movements | The Film Board | Movies We Like | The Next Reel | Sitting in the DarkConnect With Us:Web | Letterboxd | Flickchart | Instagram | Bluesky | YouTube | DiscordYour Hosts: Andy | PeteMerch Store | Audible