An action comedy, Love and Monsters, takes place seven years after a “Monsterpocalypse” wipes out most of human civilization. The hero, Joel (played by Dylan O’Brien) learns that his high school sweetheart (played by Jessica Henwick) has survived and so he sets out on a dangerous 85-mile hike to find her. Along the way, he meets a dog he names Boy, who saves his life and becomes his traveling companion.
Boy is played by Hero, an Australian Kelpie. During filming, O’Brien and Hero formed an “incredibly intense” bond, according to Zelie Bullen, the lead dog trainer for the film. She says it’s the strongest bond she’s ever seen in all her years working with dogs. She also noted that Australian Kelpies are “extremely intelligent, versatile, agile, and athletic. They’re known for their loyalty and their companionship.”
O’Brien describes the relationship between his character and Boy in the movie as “the perfect marriage—a kid who’s in over his head and a dog who’s experienced and showing him the ropes.”
Movie Trailer:
You can also watch a behind-the-scenes interview with O’Brien and Bullen here.