Yorgos Lanthimos strikes again Bugoniais a highly original film that deftly blends elements of sci-fi paranoia, dark comedy, and tense thriller into a tense and immersive experience. It’s reminiscent of his signature style seen in . favorite and poor thingthis remake of the Korean black comedy ramps up the absurdity while building on conspiracy theories, misinformation, and timely commentary on social polarization. The story, in which two men obsessed with conspiracies kidnap a powerful CEO they believe is an alien trying to destroy the Earth, draws audiences in from the get-go with its blend of humor and anxiety, escalating into a laugh-out-loud funny and truly shocking story.
At the heart of this film are the strong performances that elevate it to must-see status. Emma Stone, in her fourth collaboration with Lanthimos, gives her best performance as the confident and manipulative CEO, effortlessly moving from vulnerable to in control with her razor-sharp wit and charisma. She is perfectly paired with Jesse Plemons, who embodies the naive yet terrifying kidnapper and embodies a menacing and heartbreaking commitment, in perhaps one of her best roles to date. Their dynamic power play mirrors the real-world divide between progressive elites and reactionary outsiders, maintaining a pressure cooker of tension that makes every interaction feel electric and unpredictable.
Visually, Bugonia Shot in 35mm by cinematographer Robbie Ryan, the film creates a surreal, tactile world where shadows and textures heighten the paranoia. Jerskin Fendrix’s eerie score further enhances the atmosphere, making even the most comedic moments feel like the film lives with fear. The production design and soundtrack add to the immersion, transforming what could have been a simple allegory into a boldly beautiful and masterful exploration of the darkest parts of human nature.
What to really set Bugonia That’s its originality. Engaging and to the point, it offers a fresh perspective on apocalyptic themes without sacrificing entertainment value. While not Lanthimos’ absolute pinnacle, it’s one of his most daring works in years, funny and dark, sharp and well-played, and reflective of our fallen times. If you’re a fan of genre-defying films that challenge and delight, this is definitely a winner.
Screening starts October 30th at Luna Liederville and Luna on SX.
- Email: neill@outloudculture.com
Source: OutLoud! Culture – outloudculture.com
