Poor Things

"Poor Things" is a film that definitely lives up to its title. Adapted from the novel by Alasdair Gray, it's a bizarre blend of science fiction, dark comedy, and feminist critique.

The "weird" factor starts right at the beginning. We meet Dr. Godwin Baxter (Willem Dafoe), a mad scientist obsessed with reviving the dead. His latest project: a beautiful young woman named Bella (Emma Stone) who, thanks to some unconventional brain surgery, possesses both childlike innocence and uninhibited desires. Throw in a menagerie of hybrid animals, quirky characters, and a darkly comedic Victorian setting, and you've got a recipe for something truly strange.

But is it good weird, or just plain weird?

Fans of director Yorgos Lanthimos (known for his offbeat films like "The Lobster" and "The Favourite") will likely find themselves right at home. He delivers his signature brand of absurdist humor and unsettling social commentary. The film is visually striking, with a dreamlike quality that perfectly complements the bizarre narrative.

However, those who prefer a more conventional story might be left scratching their heads. The plot takes some unexpected turns, and the humor is definitely on the dry, deadpan side.

So, should you see "Poor Things"?

If you're looking for a unique and thought-provoking film experience, then definitely give it a shot. Just be prepared for something a little out there.

Here's a quick breakdown:

Pros: Visually stunning, great performances (especially Stone and Dafoe), clever dark humor, unique story Cons: Very strange (might not be for everyone), unconventional plot, dry humor Ultimately, "Poor Things" is a film that will stay with you long after the credits roll. Whether you love it or hate it, there's no denying it's a memorable experience.

Poor Things is a very, very strange and peculiar film. This film is about the freedom that every person must have, interpreted by the new life of Bella Baxter, a woman who is already physically adult but mentally child: a plot that I like. In this film we see the evolution that Bella gets and how she gets her psychological maturity, especially through lots of sex. In this film, in fact, there is a high dose of nudity with many very explicit scenes, of which I think at some point they could cut the amount. It's also quite a fantascentific film because a lot of the topics are impossible to find in real life. Lanthimos' direction is excellent, with many beautiful and extravagant filmmakers who keep the spectator on the piece. The image quality is gorgeous with so many amazing colors. Emma Stone does an incredible job and in fact her Oscar is ultra deserved: one thing that makes her performance perfect is also the fact of her courage in facing a film so sexually explicit, performing it at the top! Mark Ruffalo also does an excellent job like all the other actors. The characters are good and the costumes amazing, every detail of clothing is noticed and makes the idea of the setting, which is also amazing. The negative notes are in my opinion: the rhythm and duration of the film, in my opinion it could last even less than 2 hours cutting some scene too much, in fact sometimes I got very bored, and writing, sometimes in my opinion repetitive. The film also makes me laugh with extravagant jokes, as if the whole movie. The ending hasn't convinced me, even this good level. Poor Things is a movie that I will want to watch again.

. Rating: 8.4/10.

Yorgos Lanthimos's latest offering, "Poor Things," is a cinematic rollercoaster that throws absurdity, social commentary, and dark humor into a blender and hits puree. It's a film that will leave you bewildered, amused, and maybe a little bit grossed out, but undeniably entertained.

The story centers around Bella Baxter (played with delightful naiveté by Emma Stone), a Frankensteinian creation brought to life by the eccentric Dr. Godwin (Mark Rylance). Reborn with the brain of a drowned child and the body of a young woman, Bella is thrust into a world that both fascinates and confuses her. Her childlike innocence clashes hilariously with the societal mores of the 19th century, leading to a series of outrageous situations that push the boundaries of good taste and propriety.

Lanthimos, known for his penchant for the bizarre, doesn't shy away from the grotesque in "Poor Things." Bodily fluids flow freely, sexual encounters are depicted with a bluntness that borders on the pornographic, and violence erupts with unexpected ferocity. Yet, amidst the chaos, there's a darkly comedic undercurrent that keeps the film from becoming merely shocking. Lanthimos uses humor to highlight the absurdity of social norms and the hypocrisy of those who uphold them.

The film's visuals are equally striking. Robbie Ryan's cinematography blends dreamlike beauty with unsettling distortions, creating a world that feels both familiar and alien. The production design is sumptuous, with meticulously crafted sets and costumes that transport us to a fantastical version of Victorian England.

"Poor Things" is not a film for everyone. Its offbeat humor, graphic content, and unconventional narrative will likely alienate some viewers. However, for those willing to embrace its strangeness, the film offers a unique and thought-provoking experience. It's a wild ride, but one that ultimately leaves you pondering the nature of humanity, the meaning of life, and the absurdity of the world we live in.

**Here are some additional points to consider:**

* The film has been praised for its performances, with particular acclaim for Emma Stone's portrayal of Bella.

* Some critics have found the film's humor to be too crass or mean-spirited.

* The film's pacing can be uneven, with some scenes dragging and others feeling rushed.

* Despite its flaws, "Poor Things" is a visually stunning and intellectually stimulating film that is sure to spark conversation.

**Overall, I recommend "Poor Things" to fans of Yorgos Lanthimos's work and those who enjoy offbeat comedies with a dark edge. Just be prepared for a wild ride.**

Clearly a lot of people enjoyed this grotesque movie, but it wasn't for me. Some of the scenes in it made me feel sick, and maybe they were supposed to, but it seemed unnecessary. Don't even get me started on how pretentious the movie was.

I also found this movie very frustrating because the acting was good, the sets and costuming were good, and some scenes used striking cinematography. These things all made me feel like I should've liked the movie, but I don't. It could have been put to much better use.

The sex and nudity is beyond gratuitous. I'm usually not bothered by sex scenes in movies, but for this particular film it felt perverted. Maybe the director has a weird fetish.

Ultimately, this film made me want to crack my own head open and pour bleach over my brain. It's one of those movies I'd like to block out. I don't think I'll ever watch anything else by Lanthimos.

My view is that you should watch this movie with a mind open to fantasy, sexuality and ignorance.

It is a fun movie to watch. The cinematics are imaginative and fantastical. In contrast, the plot is in stark opposition to the magical scenery which, gives this film an interesting allure.

Mark Ruffalo gives it 100% and I give him a 10.

Emma Stone is amazingly venerable and strong. Of Course.

Willem Dafoe looks horrid, but he is a necessary evil in his role.

There is a good amount of sexual content but it is done is a very, matter of fact, way. There is nudity of men and women so if that is not what you want to see, you may want to pass.