Directed by David Ayer, Heart of the Beast follows a retired Special Forces officer through the Alaskan wilderness. At first, it seems like a tranquil outdoorsman is enjoying his free time with his dog. But their rugged adventure takes a turn when he has a medical emergency while flying his seaplane. After losing control and crashing into a lake, the two are separated and miles off course from their destination.
The film is a harrowing tale of adventure and survival, starring Brad Pitt, J.K. Simmons, and Anna Lambe. Similar to the recently released It Ends, Ayer & Co. make the most of a small cast. With just three actors and a dog named Odin, an epic adventure is told through the Alaskan wilderness, where a brutal fight for survival takes place. Battling the elements, a pack of wolves, and a whole bear, Brad Pitt is at his finest.
Before last year’s F1: The Movie, it had been many moons since the last truly spectacular performance from Pitt. But here, we get to see the nearly 40-year veteran give an award-winning performance alongside a furry co-star who also deserves acclaim. This fictional survival thriller sees the duo face battles of various types: air, land, sea, and of the mind (PTSD). Portraying the role of James Belmont, Pitt fully owns his character and gives a knockout performance. Arguably, we could’ve used more of J.K. Simmons, but I’m ok with how he was used (briefly).
Whether you love adventure, animals, or are a big fan of Pitt, this film is a must-see before we’re catapulted into spooky season. The score perfectly complements the emotions displayed onscreen. If you’re an animal person, it’s a guarantee you’re going to cry.
Heart of the Beast gets a 9 out of 10. Surprisingly, there hasn’t been a big marketing push behind this film, which almost works in its favor. Nobody can say it’s “overhyped” if it was never hyped to begin with. I came into this thinking I’d see a Bear Grylls version of Brad Pitt who saves the day and just so happens to have a German Shepherd along for the ride. I was completely wrong in the best way. The plot twist toward the end? Chef’s kiss. As we get closer to awards season, keep this on your radar.
Heart of the Beast lands in theaters on Sept. 25.
-Jon Jones
Photos: Paramount Pictures
Genre: Adventure/Survival/Thriller
Rating: PG-13
Runtime: 1 hr 41 mins
Trailer: Watch
U.S. Release Date: September 25, 2026