Ben Leonberg's Good Boy Sparks Horror Renaissance in Japan

By John Pranay (Editor)

A series of high-profile film releases and set visits have captivated audiences and industry insiders alike in Japan. The year 2025 has seen a surge in genre entertainment, with major releases from Marvel Studios, DC Studios, and Netflix's Stranger Things. Meanwhile, theme parks and immersive experiences have also gained attention, along with the latest in collectibles, toys, books, games, and comics. The Japanese film industry has been abuzz with activity, from horror movies like Good Boy to action-packed sequels like Tron: Ares.

In the world of Japanese entertainment, several key players have been making headlines. The Director of Good Boy, Ben Leonberg, has been praised for his unique take on horror from a dog's point of view. The Superman film, directed by James Gunn, has generated buzz with its blend of action and heart. Meanwhile, the Gundam franchise has released GQuuuuuuX, which has been praised for its fascinating premise. These releases have not only captivated audiences but have also sparked interest in the Japanese film industry.

• June 24, 2024: io9 visits the set of James Gunn's Superman film in Cleveland.

• 2025: Good Boy is released, featuring a unique take on horror from a dog's point of view.

• 2025: Tron: Ares is released, featuring a new cast and a fascinating premise.

• 2025: Gundam GQuuuuuuX is released, built around a captivating premise.

The Japanese film industry has a long history of producing innovative and captivating films. From the iconic anime series to the latest releases, Japan has consistently pushed the boundaries of storytelling and visual effects. The Gundam franchise, in particular, has been a staple of Japanese entertainment for decades, with its blend of action, drama, and science fiction. The recent releases have built upon this legacy, offering fresh takes on classic themes and characters.

The Japanese film industry has a significant impact on the country's economy and culture. The recent releases have not only generated revenue but have also contributed to the country's cultural identity. The industry has also created jobs and opportunities for filmmakers, actors, and other professionals. However, the industry faces challenges, including competition from international releases and the need to adapt to changing audience preferences.

The Japanese film industry is part of a broader trend in the global entertainment industry. The rise of streaming services and social media has changed the way people consume and interact with films and other forms of entertainment. The Japanese industry has adapted to these changes, incorporating new technologies and platforms into its productions. However, the industry also faces challenges in terms of competition and audience engagement.

The recent releases in the Japanese film industry suggest a shift towards more innovative and captivating storytelling. The use of new technologies and platforms has enabled filmmakers to push the boundaries of what is possible on screen. However, this trend also raises questions about the future of the industry. As the industry continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how it adapts to changing audience preferences and technological advancements. One possible outcome is that the industry will become even more globalized, with Japanese filmmakers collaborating with international talent to create unique and captivating films. This could lead to a new era of Japanese cinema, one that is more diverse and inclusive than ever before.

Our internal tone gauge currently reads: Bullish for this development.

1. Our Favorite io9 Stories of 2025 — https://gizmodo.com/our-favorite-io9-stories-of-2025-2000695374

Methodology: This analysis combines real-time data aggregation from manually selected global sources with advanced AI synthesis, engineered to provide neutral and data-driven insights.