In an intriguing revelation at the Venice Film Festival, Emma Stone expressed her belief in the existence of aliens, aligning her views with those of renowned astronomer Carl Sagan. Stone emphasized that dismissing the possibility of extraterrestrial life would be “pretty narcissistic,” a sentiment echoed by Sagan himself. This candid admission came during a press conference promoting her latest film, Bugonia, where she plays the role of a CEO kidnapped by conspiracy theorists who believe she is an alien with plans to destroy the planet.
During the press conference, Stone reflected on her admiration for Sagan, stating, “I don’t know about looking down on us, but one of my favourite people who has ever lived is Carl Sagan. I fell madly in love with his philosophy and science.” The Oscar-winning actress highlighted Sagan's belief that the idea of humanity being alone in the vast universe is a narrow perspective, and she boldly declared, “So, yes, I’m coming out and saying it: I believe in aliens.” This belief beautifully ties into the themes explored in her new film, further enhancing its relevance.
Bugonia, directed by Yorgos Lanthimos, marks the third collaboration between Stone and the acclaimed director within three years. The film is set to premiere in competition at the Venice Film Festival on Thursday night. Lanthimos, who previously won the prestigious Golden Lion for his gothic comedy Poor Things, continues to create thought-provoking cinema. Stone praised the director’s ability to delve into compelling material, stating, “I love the worlds he wants to explore and the characters he’s been generous enough to let me try my hand at.”
Stone described Bugonia as a film that resonates deeply with the current state of the world. She characterized it as “reflective of this point in time in our world” and labeled it a “really fascinating and moving, funny and fucked up, and alive” project. Lanthimos shared his enthusiasm for the screenplay, noting that he was “immediately blown away” by its content. He cautioned that while the film might not be strictly dystopian, it reflects ongoing issues humanity faces today, including technology, artificial intelligence, and rising tensions globally.
The press conference also featured a moment of disappointment when George Clooney was unable to attend due to a sinus infection. Director Noah Baumbach humorously remarked, “Even movie stars get sick,” as Clooney stars in his film Jay Kelly, which also premieres on Thursday. In this film, Clooney portrays a famous actor grappling with a late-career crisis while navigating his relationships across Europe with his manager, played by Adam Sandler, alongside co-stars Laura Dern and Billy Crudup.
Baumbach shared that he and co-writer Emily Mortimer specifically crafted the role for Clooney, emphasizing the significance of the audience's connection with the actor. “It was really important that the audience watching the movie have a relationship with the actor. We all, watching it, have a history with George, just the way the people in the movie have a history with Jay,” he explained. This personal touch adds emotional depth to the film, resonating with viewers on multiple levels.
As the Venice Film Festival unfolds, both Bugonia and Jay Kelly are set to captivate audiences with their unique narratives, blending humor and reflection on pressing contemporary themes.
