Venice Film Festival: Emma Stone Gives Her Richest Performance Yet in “Poor Things”
A Weird and Sweet Coming-of-Age Tale
The Venice Film Festival saw the premiere of Yorgos Lanthimos’s new film, “Poor Things,” which is being hailed as the weirdest coming-of-age tale of the year. Known for his unconventional and often unsentimental films like “Dogtooth” and “The Lobster,” Lanthimos surprises audiences with a long, strange trip towards sweetness in “Poor Things.” Adapted from Alasdair Gray’s 1992 novel, the film follows the story of Bella Baxter, a Frankensteinian monster navigating her way through the world.
Emma Stone’s Breakthrough Role
Leading the cast is Emma Stone, who delivers her richest performance yet as Bella Baxter. Stone’s talent and incredible range shine through as she portrays the complex character of Bella, a mix of child and mother inhabiting an adult woman’s body. Bella’s existence is abnormal, with the brain of an infant driving her actions. Stone expertly captures Bella’s growth, both physically and intellectually, as she acquires new words, becomes steadier on her feet, and explores the wonders of the world outside her home.
Aesthetics and Style
“Poor Things” is set in a fanciful version of 1880s Europe, with visually stunning steampunk elements and theatrical backdrops. The costumes, designed by Holly Waddington, combine Victorian puffiness with 1960s go-go mod, adding to the film’s unique and arresting aesthetics. However, Lanthimos’s relentless stylistic choices risk exhausting the audience, and a few moments of corny indulgence break the otherwise captivating experience.
Political Commentary
While the film’s style and visuals may be a bit overwhelming at times, “Poor Things” delivers pointed political commentary. Bella’s journey through a world of sex and men leads her to question and challenge the systems she encounters. As a sex-worker philosopher, Bella boldly challenges societal structures, reordering her environment when she doesn’t like the answers she receives. Lanthimos fearlessly showcases Bella’s sexual exploration, presenting vivid and detailed scenes without hesitation.
Supporting Cast
Stone receives sturdy support from her co-stars. Willem Dafoe delivers a masterful performance as Professor Godwin, Bella’s guardian and mad scientist. Ramy Youssef charms as Max, one of Godwin’s students, while Christopher Abbott portrays a slimy villain. The talented Kathryn Hunter brings a prickly mix of motherly warmth and menace to her role as a heavily tattooed madam. However, Mark Ruffalo’s portrayal of a sleazy hustler veers towards daffy farce, potentially influenced by Lanthimos’s vision for the character.
A Comedy with Heart
Above all, “Poor Things” is a comedy that teeters on the edge of smugness with its cleverness. While the film’s humor is sharp and clever in its best moments, the 140-minute runtime begins to wear thin in the final third. The jokes become repetitive, and new plot developments feel burdensome. However, Lanthimos manages to find a satisfying conclusion that imbues the film with kindness and a sense of accomplishment, allowing the audience to feel the contented tiredness of returning home after a transformative journey.
Maturity and Grace
“Poor Things” shows a maturation in Lanthimos’s filmmaking. While he remains a mischievous provocateur, daring audiences to confront uncomfortable themes, he strikes a balance between the profane and the squalid with grace in this film. Lanthimos exhibits a heart that complements his unique storytelling, showcasing the growth of both the characters and himself as a director.
Editorial and Advice
“Poor Things” is undoubtedly a standout film at the Venice Film Festival, with Emma Stone’s performance garnering well-deserved praise. Lanthimos’s ability to blend dark comedy, political commentary, and visual extravagance creates a captivating cinematic experience. However, the film’s relentless stylistic choices and lengthy runtime may test the patience of some viewers. Despite these minor flaws, “Poor Things” is a must-watch for those seeking unconventional coming-of-age tales and thought-provoking storytelling.
With Stone’s breakthrough role in “Poor Things,” it is evident that she continues to push the boundaries of her immense talent. Her ability to seamlessly transition between comedy and wistfulness showcases her versatility as an actress. Stone’s performance in “Poor Things” solidifies her status as one of the brightest stars in the industry, and audiences can eagerly anticipate her future projects.
As for Yorgos Lanthimos, “Poor Things” adds another unique and daring film to his impressive body of work. While some may find his relentless style exhausting, his ability to intertwine political commentary with comedic elements is commendable. Lanthimos’s growth as a filmmaker is evident in “Poor Things,” showcasing his ability to find grace amidst the profane.
In conclusion, “Poor Things” is a film that should not be missed. Its weirdness and sweetness create a memorable viewing experience, and Emma Stone’s masterful performance elevates the film to new heights. While Lanthimos’s style may be an acquired taste, his ability to challenge societal norms through storytelling is undeniable. Sit back, open your mind, and let “Poor Things” take you on a mesmerizing journey.
<< photo by Jairo Chacon >>
The image is for illustrative purposes only and does not depict the actual situation.
