Yorgos Lanthimos unveils his new surreal fantasy Poor Things with a trippy trailer
The visionary director behind acclaimed films such as 2018’s The Favourite and 2015’s The Lobster, Yorgos Lanthimos, is back with his latest masterpiece, Poor Things. The freshly released trailer for this psychedelic fever dream has left the Internet captivated, offering a glimpse into a world that is both bizarre and mesmerising.
If you haven't already, watch the trailer for the Poor Things. Fair warning, it's really weird...
Poor Things centres around the enigmatic Bella Baxter, portrayed by the Academy Award winner, Emma Stone, who finds herself brought back to life through a daring experiment conducted by the eccentric Dr Godwin Baxter, played by the incomparable Willem Dafoe. Bella embarks on an extraordinary adventure, taking viewers on a visually stunning journey through breathtaking landscapes and lavish settings reminiscent of the Brothers Grimm fairy tales.
I choose Poor Things final answer pic.twitter.com/ZrOEKciteC
— Cooper D (@movieboyguy) June 8, 2023
The plot follows Bella Baxter - a newly created woman grappling with the existential complexities of her existence. As she gradually learns to navigate the human experience, the film delves into profound themes of self-discovery and the quest for personal identity. Lanthimos presents a coming-of-age story that promises to propel Stone into the realm of adult stardom, supported by exquisitely stylised costumes, mesmerising set design, and transformative makeup.
The trailer for for the film, unveiled by Searchlight Pictures, showcases the uncanny and peculiar nature of Bella Baxter's existence. Adapted from Alasdair Gray's 1992 novel of the same name, the film not only features Stone's exceptional acting but also marks her debut as a producer.
In a recent interview with Vogue, Stone described Poor Things as a fairy tale and a metaphorical exploration of starting anew. She expressed her fascination with the concept of stepping into a pre-formed body and experiencing everything afresh, attempting to comprehend the intricacies of sexuality, power, money, and personal agency.
Emma Stone as Bella Baxter in Yorgos Lanthimos 'POOR THINGS'. pic.twitter.com/CPfT9UykCK
— A Shot. (@justashottt_) June 8, 2023
The trailer itself is a kaleidoscope of vivid imagery, blending black and white aesthetics with bursts of vibrant colors, and also teases other peculiar creatures conjured by the mad scientist, such as a dog-bodied duck, while offering glimpses of the trademark Lanthimos slapstick humor.
what should we name our new pet? pic.twitter.com/4WIO0BlEox
— Poor Things (@PoorThingsFilm) June 8, 2023
Complementing the trippy trailer, the newly unveiled poster for the film further entices audiences with its promise of an unparalleled cinematic experience. Emma Stone's Bella radiates an ethereal allure, akin to a renaissance painting. However, upon closer inspection, the poster reveals a mind-bending twist, seamlessly merging Bella into a larger body.
Known for his distinct and stylised approach to filmmaking, Lanthimos seems to be pushing the boundaries of visual storytelling in Poor Things. The meticulous control over the performances, a trademark of his filmography, is elevated to new heights by the opulent and extravagant set design. The entire production exudes a sense of grandeur and artistic prowess, immersing viewers in a mesmerising alternate reality.
Poor Things is already the most visually stunning film of the year and it’s not even out. pic.twitter.com/vHg65yHEOL
— Jillian (@JillianChili) June 8, 2023
Featuring a star-studded cast that includes Mark Ruffalo, Ramy Youssef, Jerrod Carmichael, and Christopher Abbott, Poor Things boasts an ensemble of exceptional talent. With such a remarkable lineup, the film is already generating buzz as one of the must-see movies of the year and a potential favorite among the Academy.
Lanthimos has a knack for crafting unconventional and thought-provoking narratives, and Poor Things appears to be no exception. Audiences can expect to be immersed in a world that challenges their perceptions, sparks introspection, and captivates their imagination.
Poor Things is set to release on September 8, 2023.