Few themes resonate as deeply as generational trauma. A silent inheritance, it’s passed down through families, subtly shaping lives and relationships across decades. This complex phenomenon forms the emotional core of Good Boy, a psychological drama and short film directed by Charlenè Brouwer. Co-written and produced by Charlenè Brouwer and Stephen Aspeling, the short film offers a unique and moving exploration of how the past continues to echo in the present.
Sparsely scripted, Good Boy steers clear of overt exposition, relying on authentic performance, production design and cinematography to convey its narrative. The film centers on a cantankerous man, whose routine and interactions with his beloved schnauzer reveal the weight of unspoken sorrows. Far more than just a pet, the dog serves as a silent confidant and reflects his owner’s inner turmoil. It’s through their shared existence that the audience begins to piece together the fractured legacy of trauma that haunts the protagonist.
Brouwer’s direction allows the psychological undercurrents to simmer as the old man transfers his anger onto the dog. She avoids sensationalism, opting instead for a quiet intensity that draws the viewer into the man’s isolated world. An angry outburst draws the attention of a passerby, which sets in motion the voices from his past. Through immersive sound design from Alex Vosser and a sensitive edit from Theo Scheepers, Good Boy grapples with and captures a complex story within its short runtime. As cinematographer, Kobus Louw frames powerful moments within intimate spaces as things intensify and the man’s repressed memories rise up.
The screenplay is sparse, almost free of dialogue allowing David Muller to inhabit the gruff performance of the old man. Brought home by Jason Gould, the short film lands with an impactful yet symbolic moment of resistance. Hinting at past events, the focus is on their lingering effects – the anxiety, mental health and coping mechanisms developed over a lifetime. This approach ensures that Good Boy resonates with a universal truth: that the impact of familial experiences can ripple through generations until the tide turns.
Told through the eyes of an old man and his dog, Good Boy shows the unwavering loyalty and unconditional love of the schnauzer, which offers special insights into the invisible shackles of the past. Faithful to a fault, the dog acts as a grounding presence, offering moments of solace and even brief glimpses of joy amidst the man’s internal struggles. This complex co-dependency dynamic speaks to the bonds of companionship, in spite of deep-seated pain. A passing of the torch, the healing process seems imminent… and comes at a critical turning point for the man’s son.
Good Boy is not a film that provides easy answers or neat resolutions. Instead, it invites contemplation, prompting viewers to consider the unseen burdens that individuals carry and the quiet resilience of the human spirit. It’s a powerful reminder of the enduring impact of generational trauma and the hidden struggles that shape our lives. Through its delicate storytelling and heartfelt performances, this thought-provoking psychological drama leaves a lasting impression – told in the quietest of moments.
A co-production between Brouwer Productions, Spling Movies and Into the Light Films, with special thanks to Best Case Scenario Media Brightburn Studios, Good Boy is available to watch on YouTube. Read this interview about the inspirations and some of the challenges of bringing Good Boy to life with filmmaker, Charlenè Brouwer.