In the unsettling film It Comes at Night, Travis's dog, Stanley, tragically dies, playing a crucial, albeit unintentional, role in precipitating the catastrophic events that unfold within the isolated household.
Stanley's fate is a pivotal moment that intensifies the pervasive sense of dread and vulnerability throughout the movie.
- The Return of Stanley: Stanley's unexpected return to the family's secluded home at night is a critical turning point. His re-entry signifies a breach in the strict quarantine measures the family has adopted to survive an unknown, deadly contagion.
- A Catalyst for Chaos: Despite the ambiguity surrounding who exactly opened the door to let him back inside, Stanley's presence ultimately ushers in the external dangers the family has desperately tried to avoid. His return, in essence, brings "death and destruction from the outside world" directly into their supposed sanctuary.
- Tragic Outcome: For viewers, Stanley's demise is a grim indicator of the film's bleak nature, emphasizing that no one, not even a beloved pet, is safe from the encroaching horror. His death underscores the relentless and indiscriminate reach of the unseen threats, contributing significantly to the film's overall atmosphere of despair and paranoia.
