"Poor Things" is the standout film of the year for me, getting absolute high praise for the unique cinematography, beautiful set-pieces, backgrounds, and in-depth character development. Another movie directed by Yorgos Lanthimos, the film gives us insight into complex human emotions and notably addresses the taboo subject of prostitution and sex work with a nuanced approach. Personally, I always took the idea of sex work on a surface level, but this movie digs into it heavily. I said May December was my favorite film of the year, but after viewing this, it definitely takes it for me without a doubt.
The film is centered on Bella Baxter, portrayed as a naïve character newly introduced to the world as a reincarnation, who enters the realm of prostitution as a quick means to earn money and allows her to get a closer look at life through the eventual discovery of philosophy and human morality. This choice of narrative provides us a detailed exploration of the motivations and emotions involved in sex work, enhanced by her pimp's perspective with her dialogue exchanges with Bella, adding a ton of depth to the narrative.
Lanthimos's direction in "Poor Things" offers a critique of sex work, presenting it not just as a profession but as a complex human experience, something more human than something to frown upon. His approach humanizes individuals involved in sex work, tapping into their emotions, motivations, and the circumstances that lead them to this line of work. The film avoids simple portrayals, always offering nuanced understandings that challenge common perceptions and stereotypes. The film's explicit content, while intense and at times overwhelming, serves a purpose in Baxter's exploration. It confronts the viewer with the raw realities of human sexuality and the primal instincts that often drive our actions. This explicitness is not for explicit viewing sake but rather integral to the film's theme of the deeper aspects of human nature, particularly how we navigate and rationalize our sexual desires and impulses. By presenting these themes, Lanthimos encourages the audience to reflect on the often unspoken aspects of human sexuality, shedding light on the complex interplay between physical desires, emotional needs, and the societal contexts that shape our understanding and expression of these fundamental aspects of human life.
The technical aspects of the movie, notably the cinematography, are exceptional. Lanthimos's signature style is evident in the characters, who exhibit both animated and inanimate traits, a hallmark of his filmmaking. However, Jerrod Carmichael's portrayal of Harry seems somewhat forced, though it could be a deliberate choice. Harry's philosophical and nihilistic insights provide a contrasting perspective to Baxter's journey of self-discovery. I also want to add the black and white sequences that represent the chapters for Lisbon, The Ship, Paris, London, etc., were excellent; I love this artistic addition to the movie, and it reminded me of the intros to every episode of Beef on Netflix.
I want to touch upon the title "Poor Things," which I think is ingeniously chosen, reflecting on the themes of birth, identity, and autonomy. It resonates deeply with the whole story as a character reborn in an adult body with an undeveloped mind, symbolizing innocence and confusion in a harsh world. This theme is mirrored through the imagery of hybrid animals, such as a duck with a pig's head or a dog with a duck's head, underscoring their unnatural existence and disorientation. The title evokes a type of sympathy and pity we feel for these characters, especially Bella, whose descent into prostitution highlights her struggle for meaning in an adult world she is ill-equipped to navigate. "Poor Things" serves as this powerful commentary on societal norms and the often-tragic circumstances that shape individual lives, inviting the audience to contemplate the complexities of existence and the manipulation of the vulnerable in a world that can be both cruel and unforgiving.
Emma Stone delivers an outstanding performance, arguably her best and definitely Oscar-worthy, portraying her character's emotional journey with great depth. Mark Ruffalo adds a unique comedic element that Lanthimos always adds to his characters. Willem Dafoe consistently impresses as he does with every movie he's in, further cementing his status as a top actor. "Poor Things" is a masterful adaptation of the book of the same name that takes a spin on the Frankenstein narrative, along with a fresh perspective on discovering the world's harsh realities. Lanthimos's direction makes this film a standout, offering insightful commentary on love and the complexities of human experience.
