Ridley Scott Says Josh Brolin Has ‘Softened a Bit’ in the 20 Years Since “American Gangster” (Exclusive)

**Josh Brolin and Ridley Scott Reunite for Post-Apocalyptic Thriller ‘The Dog Stars’**

In a much-anticipated reunion, director Ridley Scott and actor Josh Brolin have teamed up once again, nearly two decades after their collaboration on the acclaimed film *American Gangster*. This time, they have brought to life *The Dog Stars*, a post-apocalyptic narrative that premiered on 20 August 2026 in London.

In *The Dog Stars*, Brolin takes on the role of Bangley, a former Marine adapting to a harsh new world that follows a devastating pandemic. He shares the screen with Jacob Elordi, who portrays Hig, a pilot navigating the challenging realities of survival. This latest film allows Brolin to explore a deeply textured character, marked by toughness but also shaped by the nuances of his experiences.

Ridley Scott, known for his meticulous direction and storytelling prowess, commended Brolin’s evolution as an actor since their first collaboration. Scott remarked that while Brolin retains his formidable edge, he has also softened in a positive way. “Brolin has become an even more intelligent and creative presence on set,” Scott noted, reflecting on the actor’s development over nearly 20 years.

The chemistry between Brolin and Elordi was instantly apparent, as they embraced their characters’ contrasting personalities. Their dynamic illustrates a classic odd-couple scenario where mutual reliance clashes with differing survival strategies. Scott described the relationship between Bangley and Hig as filled with tension and humour, which added depth to the narrative. He stated, “They are constantly bickering, which brings a lightness to what could otherwise be a dark setting.”

This interplay provides a fascinating lens through which audiences can view the characters’ resilience in a bleak world. While Hig seeks hope and alternative paths forward, Bangley occupies a more cynical space, ready to confront danger with a hardened pragmatism. This tension is key to the film’s emotional fabric, allowing for moments of levity amidst an otherwise dire storyline.

Brolin’s versatile career dates back to his breakout role as Brand Walsh in *The Goonies* in 1985. Since then, his repertoire has expanded across various genres, including dramatic performances in *No Country for Old Men* and blockbuster hits like *Deadpool 2* and *Avengers: Endgame*. His accolades reflect the breadth of his talents, including an Oscar nomination for his role in *Milk* and notable performances in *Sicario*, *True Grit*, *Inherent Vice*, and the *Dune* franchise.

Scott’s initial encounter with Brolin during *American Gangster* was rooted in admiration but lacking a personal connection. In that 2007 film, Brolin portrayed a corrupt detective amidst a gritty backdrop of drug trade in New York, opposite Denzel Washington and Russell Crowe. Reflecting on their earlier collaboration, Scott acknowledged, “In *American Gangster*, I knew his work but didn’t know him personally.”

Over the years, Scott has come to appreciate Brolin beyond his tough-guy persona. He refers to Brolin as not only a formidable actor but also a highly intelligent individual with literary inclinations. As Scott describes it, “He’s a tough guy, but he’s also very smart and a good writer.”

Despite his extensive experience, Brolin confessed to encountering initial challenges during the filming of *The Dog Stars*. He nearly walked away from the project after the first day, overwhelmed by Scott’s unconventional filmmaking style, which prioritised storytelling over rehearsal. He recalled feeling unsettled and even contacted his agent to express his desire to quit.

However, driven by the allure of Scott’s creative vision, Brolin welcomed the challenge and ultimately embraced the director’s methodology. Upon reviewing footage of a scene with Elordi, he began to understand Scott’s unique approach, eventually describing the experience as “stratospherically creative and stratospherically dangerous.” Brolin voiced that *The Dog Stars* became one of the most creatively fulfilling projects of his career.

Currently, *The Dog Stars* is captivating audiences in cinemas, poised to become yet another noteworthy entry in the filmographies of both Ridley Scott and Josh Brolin. With its blend of drama, humour, and rich character dynamics, the film is set to resonate with viewers seeking a compelling narrative amidst the chaos of a post-apocalyptic world.