Speaking with Discussing Film, Brolin singled out Scott’s remarkable longevity and his willingness to keep moving into unfamiliar territory at 88.
Josh Brolin Reflects on Ridley Scott’s Approach to ‘The Dog Stars’
For Brolin, Scott’s age is part of what makes his continued work on “The Dog Stars” so striking. The performer pointed to the different paths legendary directors can take as their careers progress, noting that some eventually lose their edge while others manage to keep evolving.
“Great directors either lose it or they stay fresh like him at 88 years old,” Brolin said.
The actor also expressed genuine disbelief at the pace and precision Scott continues to bring to his productions. “I don’t know how he’s doing what he’s doing or is as sharp as he is,” he said, highlighting the director’s ability to remain fully engaged with the demands of filmmaking.
Brolin’s comments come as “The Dog Stars” marks his second collaboration with Scott. The two previously worked together on “American Gangster” in 2007, with Brolin playing Detective Inspector Nick Trupo in the crime drama. Their reunion comes nearly 20 years later, this time with Brolin portraying Bangley, a hardened former Marine living alongside Jacob Elordi‘s Hig in a world devastated by a flu pandemic.
The new picture finds Scott returning to science fiction with an adaptation of Peter Heller‘s 2012 novel. Written by Mark L. Smith, “The Dog Stars” also stars Margaret Qualley and Guy Pearce. The film was released in France and Italy yesterday and is scheduled to reach U.S. theaters on August 28 through 20th Century Studios.
Brolin also highlighted Scott’s appetite for changing directions rather than settling into a familiar formula. “He challenges himself in playing with different genres,” the actor said.