by Introduction
In a year full of predictable sequels, superhero fatigue, and generic storytelling, Poor Things arrives like a bolt of cinematic lightning. Directed by Yorgos Lanthimos and starring Emma Stone in arguably her most daring role yet, this film isn’t just a reimagined Frankenstein tale—it’s a beautifully twisted exploration of rebirth, female autonomy, and the surreal strangeness of being alive. As a long-time film enthusiast and blogger, I can honestly say Poor Things is one of the most original films I’ve seen in years.
If you’re tired of cookie-cutter plots and yearn for cinema that takes real risks, this is a must-watch. But be warned: it’s not for the faint-hearted. It’s bold, it’s grotesque, and it’s downright bizarre—but that’s also why it works.
Movie Overview: What Is Poor Things About?
Set in a pseudo-Victorian fantasy world, Poor Things follows the story of Bella Baxter, a young woman who is literally brought back to life by an unorthodox and morally ambiguous scientist named Godwin Baxter (played by Willem Dafoe). Think Frankenstein, but viewed through the lens of feminist commentary and surrealism.
Bella begins life with the mind of a child but rapidly learns about the world through her own experiences—sex, love, power, freedom—and gradually evolves into a fully conscious, independent woman. It’s a coming-of-age story flipped upside down and stretched across a kaleidoscopic dreamscape.
Emma Stone Shines: A Career-Best Performance
Let’s talk about Emma Stone, because her performance alone is worth the price of admission. Stone transforms herself completely, playing Bella with childlike innocence, raw vulnerability, and fearless sensuality. She’s not afraid to look awkward, sound naive, or act wildly unpredictable—and that’s exactly what the character demands.
This isn’t the Emma Stone we saw in La La Land or Cruella. This is something else—more unfiltered, more exposed, and far more challenging. Her ability to oscillate between humor, horror, and heartbreak in a single scene is nothing short of extraordinary. It’s no surprise that she’s earning Oscar buzz for this role.
The Direction: Yorgos Lanthimos and His Surreal World
Director Yorgos Lanthimos is no stranger to the bizarre. His previous works—Dogtooth, The Lobster, The Killing of a Sacred Deer, and The Favourite—all toy with our expectations of reality, society, and morality. But with Poor Things, he goes even further into the realm of fantasy.
The film is visually rich, drenched in bold color palettes and dreamlike production design. It feels like a mash-up of a Victorian painting, a Salvador Dalí dream, and a steampunk novel. Every frame is packed with detail. If you’re a fan of directors like Jean-Pierre Jeunet (Amélie) or Terry Gilliam, you’ll love the visual storytelling here.
Lanthimos reunites with screenwriter Tony McNamara (also from The Favourite) to adapt Alasdair Gray’s 1992 novel. Together, they build a world where the grotesque becomes poetic, and morality is constantly questioned.
Not Just Weird for the Sake of It
Here’s where Poor Things really won me over: it’s not just weird for weirdness’s sake. Every odd character, every exaggerated set piece, and every jarring dialogue exchange serves a purpose. The film’s bizarre aesthetic is a metaphorical layer over serious themes—gender roles, bodily autonomy, societal control, and the pursuit of pleasure and self-discovery.
Bella’s journey is about reclaiming her body and mind. She doesn’t want to conform to the expectations placed on her. She doesn’t just want to be “alive”—she wants to be free.
As a male viewer, the film also made me reflect on how women’s lives are often controlled and narrated by men—be it in films, relationships, or even history. Poor Things disrupts that narrative and lets a woman reclaim her own.
Supporting Cast: Ruffalo, Dafoe, and Others
Aside from Emma Stone, the cast is packed with stellar performances.
- Willem Dafoe is both grotesque and sympathetic as Dr. Godwin Baxter. His face, mutilated from past experiments, is a haunting symbol of the lengths he’s gone for science and control.
- Mark Ruffalo, playing lawyer Duncan Wedderburn, steals every scene he’s in. He’s absurdly over-the-top, sexually predatory, and wildly insecure—yet hilarious in a strangely charming way. You’ve never seen Ruffalo like this.
Other supporting characters help flesh out Bella’s journey through different stages of self-realization, each offering a different view of society’s expectations.
The Cinematography and Score
The visuals are beyond stunning. Cinematographer Robbie Ryan (also from The Favourite) uses fisheye lenses and low angles to distort perception, making everything feel slightly off—yet purposeful. It’s like watching reality through a funhouse mirror.
The score, composed by Jerskin Fendrix, is experimental, jarring, and dreamlike. It feels like the heartbeat of Bella’s mind, pulsating with curiosity, confusion, and eventually, confidence.
A Word on Controversy: Not for Everyone
Let’s be honest—Poor Things is not your average holiday release. It has scenes of sexual exploration, nudity, and dark humor. Some viewers may find it uncomfortable or even offensive.
But that’s also the point. It challenges comfort zones, breaks taboos, and makes you think. That’s what great cinema should do. If you’re open-minded and want to see something totally different from your usual Netflix binge, this is for you.
Final Verdict: A Surreal Masterpiece
As someone who has been reviewing movies for five years, I can say with confidence: Poor Things is one of the most original, fearless, and thought-provoking films of 2023. It’s not perfect, but that’s part of its charm. Like Bella herself, it grows on you—expanding your mind and challenging your perspective.
Emma Stone delivers a powerhouse performance that may define her career. Yorgos Lanthimos proves once again that he’s a cinematic risk-taker with vision and guts. This isn’t just a movie—it’s an experience.
Should You Watch It?
Yes, if you enjoy:
- Experimental and arthouse films
- Feminist storytelling
- Powerful acting performances
- Unique world-building
- Non-linear, character-driven plots
No, if you prefer:
- Straightforward narratives
- Family-friendly content
- Action-packed blockbusters
- Light-hearted romantic comedies
Conclusion
In a world full of formulaic films, Poor Things dares to be different. It may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but it’s an unforgettable cinematic journey that leaves a lasting impression. If you love bold storytelling and aren’t afraid of a little weirdness, this film will reward your curiosity.
As a 25-year-old movie blogger with five years of experience, I urge you to give Poor Things a shot. It’s bizarre, brilliant, and bursting with creativity.
Let me know in the comments—did Poor Things blow your mind or just weird you out?
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