In the upcoming film “Bugonia,” director Yorgos Lanthimos delivers a darkly humorous exploration of societal fears through the lens of a conspiratorial antihero played by Jesse Plemons. Plemons portrays Teddy, a man convinced that his boss, portrayed by Emma Stone, is part of an alien race intending to annihilate humanity. Fueled by anger over capitalist exploitation and ecological crises, Teddy and his cousin Don, played by Aidan Delbis in his feature film debut, resort to kidnapping her.
Lanthimos, known for his unique storytelling style that scrutinizes societal constructs, reveals layers of complexity within his characters. He describes the film as a way to challenge biases imposed by technology and our perceptions of others. Despite Teddy’s seemingly unhinged behavior, there is an underlying rationale to his fear and discontent as he grapples with the indifference of society toward working-class individuals.
“Bugonia,” inspired by the 2003 South Korean film “Save the Green Planet!” is particularly relevant in today’s landscape, rife with misinformation. The film’s title derives from ancient Greek, referencing a myth where bees arise from an ox carcass, an element woven throughout the narrative as Teddy’s obsession with beekeeping further drives his apocalyptic worldview. He believes corporate pollution, particularly from the fictional Auxolit run by Stone’s character, contributes to the devastating decline of bee populations.
This film also marks the fourth collaboration between Lanthimos and Stone, showcasing their artistic synergy. The storyline takes a thrilling turn when Teddy, after rendering Fuller unconscious, attempts to prevent her from contacting her supposed alien allies by having her shave her head.
In a visual treat, much of “Bugonia” is shot in VistaVision, a cinematic format known for capturing expansive imagery. This technique allows for intimate close-ups that elevate the emotional stakes of the film, maintaining a grand feel even in confined spaces. Cinematographer Robbie Ryan employed a vintage camera to achieve a crisp, iconic look that enhances the confrontations among the characters.
Set for theatrical release on October 31, “Bugonia” promises to be a captivating blend of psychological thriller and social commentary, reflecting the anxieties of a contemporary audience grappling with complex truths about the world around them.