Poor Things
In this adaptation of Alasdair Gray's 1992 novel, the director Yorgos Lanthimos and screenwriter Tony McNamara craft a surreal world, blending abstract aesthetics with a twisted exploration of gender dynamics.
Emma Stone delivers a remarkable performance, embodying Bella's journey from infancy to empowered womanhood. Stone's portrayal captivates Bella's growth with depth and authenticity. The narrative shifts from male dominated themes to a focus on Bella's world, propelled by her interactions with key male figures portrayed by Dafoe, Youssef, and Ruffalo. As Bella embarks on a whimsical odyssey with Duncan, and the film's imagery evolves alongside her expanding mind.
Robbie Ryan's cinematography paints a vivid alt-Victorian dreamscape, complemented by Jerskin Fendrix's uncomfortable score, enhancing the film's mutated world. Despite its absurdity, the director infuses substance into the narrative, ultimately granting Bella autonomy and a uniquely bizarre yet satisfying resolution. "Bella" offers a cinematic experience that is both intoxicatingly bizarre and profoundly original, defying all expectations with its bold storytelling.
It's absolutely bonkers, completely filthy and very original, catch it while you can. The film is still showing at some multiplexes and will be available to stream soon. A definitive awards winner.
