Key Highlights
- Indy the dog won an Astra Award for Best Performance in a Horror or Thriller.
- This is the first time an animal has been recognized in a major awards category typically reserved for humans.
- The win was a historic moment, beating out human actors like Ethan Hawke and Allison Brie.
- Indy’s owner and director, Ben Leonberg, accepted the award on behalf of his dog star.
A Historic Moment in Film: Indy the Dog Takes Home an Astra Award
When we think of film awards ceremonies, human actors are typically at the forefront. But this year, a new star has taken center stage: Indy, the dog from the horror film Good Boy. The 9th Annual Astra Awards held on January 10 saw Indy make history as the first animal to win an award in a major category.
The Rise of Indie Film and Indy’s Impact
Indy’s journey began with his owner and director, Ben Leonberg. Leonberg crafted the dog’s performance into the protagonist of an emotional and terrifying journey, emphasizing Indy as the central figure in the film. This unique approach to filmmaking has caught the attention of critics and audiences alike.
The success didn’t stop there; Indy was also nominated for an Astra Award, setting a precedent that could change the landscape of independent film. The nomination was part of a broader push by the filmmakers to secure an Academy Award nomination, though this would be unprecedented since dogs are not eligible for such recognition.
The Triumph at the Astra Awards
On January 10, Indy’s performance was recognized with a win in the Best Performance in a Horror or Thriller category. The competition was fierce, featuring notable human actors like Ethan Hawke from Black Phone 2, Sophie Thatcher from Companion, Allison Brie from Together, Alfie Williams from 28 Years Later, and Sally Hawkins from Bring Her Back. Despite the odds, Indy’s performance stood out.
“Indy is honored to accept this award. Especially knowing that he’s standing alongside performers who didn’t even have to be bribed with treats to hit their marks,” joked Ben Leonberg during his acceptance speech.
Future Prospects and Industry Implications
The win could mark the beginning of a new era for animal actors in the film industry. Indy’s performance has already sparked discussions about the recognition of non-human performers and the potential for more awards ceremonies to follow suit. While an Academy Award is unlikely, the attention from major events like the Astra Awards could boost Indie films’ visibility and prestige.
Good Boy, released on October 3, 2025, is a PG-13 horror thriller directed by Ben Leonberg, featuring a runtime of 73 minutes.
The film has already gained traction for its unique take on the genre and the unexpected star that brought it to life.
The industry’s response to Indy’s success reflects an evolving relationship between humans and animals in entertainment. As technology advances and the line between human and machine actors blurs, Indy’s historic win stands as a testament to the changing dynamics of the film world.
