Poor Things Movie: Yorgos Lanthimos unveiled his highly anticipated film “Poor Things” at the Venice Film Festival, discussing sexuality, Emma Stone’s absence, and intimacy planner Elle McAlpine. The Searchlight Pictures film, based on Alasdair Gray’s novel, stars Emma Stone as Bella Baxter and opens December 8. The 2023 New York Film Festival will show it.
Lanthimos regretted that Stone, who has worked with him on four films, couldn’t attend the festival to discuss her performance and the character’s many sex scenes. “First of all, sex is an intrinsic part of the novel, her freedom about everything, including sexuality,” Lanthimos said. He stressed that a prudish film would betray Bella Baxter. He remarked, “We had to be confident Emma had no shame about her body, nudity, engaging in those scenes, and she understood that right away.”
Due to their multiple collaborations, the filmmaker and Stone have a shorthand for discussing delicate and complex themes. “When I mentioned sex, she said, ‘Yes,’ of course, it’s Bella. We will act as needed, “Lanthimos said. This rapport made decision-making easier, letting them focus on the role’s complexity without explanations.
Lanthimos employed Elle McAlpine as the film’s intimacy coordinator, a post that felt “threatening” to most filmmakers, to ensure delicate and professional handling of personal situations. “But I think it’s like everything: if you’re with a good person, it’s great, and you realize you need them,” remarked Lanthimos. He said McAlpine’s personal scene coordination made the process smoother for everyone.
Frankenstein-inspired “Poor Things” explores life, death, and sexual freedom. Willem Dafoe’s scientist resurrects Emma Stone’s Bella Baxter using a child’s brain. Mark Ruffalo, Ramy Youssef, and Jerrod Carmichael play key parts. This transforms the film from a period drama to a complex investigation of identity and the human condition.
The Venice Film Festival press conference centered on the film’s sexual material and Lanthimos and Stone’s partnership, but the director also discussed the film’s themes. “Poor Things” is a story about a resurrected lady and society’s attitudes on sexuality, freedom, and being truly alive, he said. The picture will also add to Lanthimos and Stone’s outstanding filmographies. Lanthimos was lauded for “The Lobster” and “The Favourite,” while Stone was lauded for “La La Land” and “Cruella.” Their fourth collaboration in “Poor Things” will be notable for its explicit content and aesthetic ambitions.
The numerous characters and deep plot of “Poor Things” make it a revolutionary picture that tackles complex subjects. The film’s nuanced approach to societal standards, sexual freedom, and life and death makes it stand out despite its sexual nature. The star-studded cast and thought-provoking subject matter of “Poor Things” will make it one of the year’s most talked-about pictures as it navigates film festivals and prepares for its December theatrical release
ALSO READ: Janet Planet Review: Annie Baker’s Debut Feature Film Dives Deep into Emotional Complexity
Our Reader’s Queries
What is the movie Poor Things based on?
Adapted from a 1992 novel by Scottish artist and writer Alasdair Gray, the story revolves around a woman who commits suicide and is brought back to life by a Victorian surgeon who swaps her brain with that of her unborn child. Filmmaker Yorgos Lanthimos was captivated by the book when he first encountered it in 2009.
How can I watch Poor Things movie?
Poor Things is still playing in theaters for those who prefer the classic cinema experience. However, you now have the option to watch it at home. As of November 25, 2023, Poor Things is streaming on HBO Max. Only subscribers have access to the movie.
What is the Poor Things movie about Netflix?
Adapted from Alasdair Gray’s “Poor Things,” the movie follows Bella Baxter (played by Stone) as she navigates her restored humanity and womanhood. Dr. Godwin Baxter (portrayed by Willem Dafoe), a deranged scientist, brings her back to life with the brain of an infant.
What happens in Poor Things?
Yorgos Lanthimos, the filmmaker behind “The Favourite” and “The Lobster,” brings us a unique sci-fi black comedy. The story centers around Bella Baxter, played by Emma Stone, who dies by suicide and then is brought back to life by a scientist. She ends up running away with a wild lawyer, embarking on a journey of self-discovery.