Actor Jacob Elordi has spoken about the uncanny resemblances between the themes in the post-apocalyptic film "The Dog Stars" and the realities of the COVID-19 pandemic. The film, set in the 2030s, depicts a world where only those immune to a deadly flu have survived.
Elordi, who recently received an Oscar nomination for his role in "Frankenstein," noted the surreal experience of filming during a time when the pandemic was a recent memory and ongoing reality. "There were a few moments I remember looking around [on set] and thinking it's strange to be doing this make-believe, when the reality is just behind us and just in front of us," he stated.
The film, which also features Guy Pearce and Margaret Qualley, presents aerial views of deserted cities and a protagonist's constant search for essential resources like food and medicine. Elordi described the film's dystopian future as "frightening to think about," adding that it is "something we have to examine and remember, because we are on the cusp of these realities."
Beyond the broader societal implications, Elordi also connected with his character's personal struggle for contentment. "Everything is sweet for us - we're able to walk around on the street, go to the shops, go to the park, have dinner with each other and we still go to bed and think 'What else is there?', 'What am I missing?', 'What's wrong?' and nothing is," he explained.
Guy Pearce, who plays Pops, a survivor Elordi's character encounters, echoed similar sentiments. Pearce highlighted the film's pertinent exploration of the world people often take for granted. "You can go to the supermarket and get food and wake up with your family - a lot of people even to this day don't live like that, so I am absolutely aware of [my] privilege," Pearce said.
"The Dog Stars" is directed by Sir Ridley Scott.