Yorgos Lanthimos, renowned for his unique brand of dark comedy, presents his latest film, the gritty conspiracy thriller “Bugonia”. This film pushes the limits of his distinctive style, offering an experience that may be challenging for some viewers. Unlike his previous works such as “The Favourite” and “Poor Things”, which dazzled audiences with quirky visual beauty, “Bugonia” immerses us in a world dominated by grim characters and a relentlessly depressing narrative.
Set in a time reminiscent of the present day, “Bugonia” revolves around two cousins, Teddy (played by Jesse Plemons) and Don (portrayed by Aidan Delbis), who are deeply obsessed with conspiracy theories. In a desperate and misguided attempt, they kidnap Michelle (featuring Emma Stone), a wealthy CEO of a pharmaceutical company, believing she is an alien. This film draws loose inspiration from the 2003 Korean sci-fi comedy “Save the Green Planet!”, delivering a blend of dark humor and unsettling themes.
The film primarily unfolds through a series of conversations between the three central characters. Initially, Michelle vehemently denies being an alien but eventually plays along with her captors, hoping to manipulate them into securing her release. As the story progresses, viewers gain insight into the troubled backgrounds of Teddy and Don, uncovering the events that have led them to such darkness. Emma Stone, in her fifth collaboration with Lanthimos, delivers a remarkable performance as the complex character Michelle. Despite her morally questionable traits, Stone’s portrayal is both captivating and chilling.
One standout moment occurs in an early scene at Michelle's office, where she insists that employees are free to leave at 5:30 PM, provided their work is completed. Her corporate jargon and eerie calmness during the kidnapping reveal a woman adept at navigating high-stress situations. When Teddy accuses her of having “alien code” on her Instagram, her response—“Could we have a dialogue about this”—is delivered with the poise of someone accustomed to boardroom negotiations.
Jesse Plemons expertly captures the heartbreak of Teddy, a character burdened by a lifetime of pain hidden beneath a stoic exterior. Meanwhile, Aidan Delbis, a nonprofessional actor, portrays the sweet and troubled Don with earnestness, showcasing the emotional bond he shares with his cousin, who serves as his only friend and lifeline. Despite the commendable performances and inventive camera work, “Bugonia” struggles to maintain its grip, especially as the narrative veers into darker territories, such as scenes of Michelle being tied up and tortured.
Perhaps the film's intense themes of captivity and darkness resonate too closely for some viewers, leading to a sense of disconnection. The final moments of “Bugonia” present a grim portrayal of humanity that is superbly crafted yet ice-cold at its core. While Lanthimos’ vision is undeniably bold and thought-provoking, it raises questions about whether audiences are ready to embrace such a bleak perspective on life.
In conclusion, “Bugonia” is a testament to Yorgos Lanthimos’ artistic prowess, delivering a film that is both compelling and deeply unsettling. For those who appreciate his distinct style of dark comedy, this film may prove to be a mesmerizing experience, albeit one that leaves a lingering heaviness long after the credits roll.
