The latest film by acclaimed Greek director Yorgos Lanthimos, “The Wretched Ones”, is a twisted and witty sex comedy that explores the themes of female empowerment, identity, and desire. Starring Emma Stone and Willem Dafoe, the film has already won the prestigious Golden Lion award at the Venice Film Festival, and is now a strong contender for the Oscars. Forbes Alexandra Bregman reviews one of the most original and provocative films of the year.
A Bizarre Experiment
The film is set in London in the late 19th century, where a brilliant but eccentric surgeon, Godwin Baxter (Willem Dafoe), conducts a secret experiment in his gloomy mansion. He rescues a pregnant woman who drowned in the Thames, and transplants the brain of her unborn child into her body. He then uses electricity to bring her back to life, creating a hybrid creature that he names Bella (Emma Stone).
Bella is a curious and naive being, with long hair, pale skin, and the speech and movements of a child. She quickly learns from Baxter and his assistant, Max McCandles (Rami Youssef), a young and talented doctor who is fascinated by the experiment. Baxter treats Bella as his daughter, but also as his property, and plans to marry her off to Max. However, Bella has other plans. She discovers her sexuality, and escapes from the mansion with the help of Duncan Wedderburn (Mark Ruffalo), a charming and unscrupulous lawyer who promises to show her the world.
A Satirical Adventure
What follows is a hilarious and outrageous adventure, as Bella and Duncan explore the pleasures and dangers of Victorian society. They encounter a variety of characters, such as a feminist poet, a mad scientist, a circus performer, and a royal prince, who all have different reactions to Bella’s unusual appearance and behaviour. Bella experiences love, lust, betrayal, violence, and freedom, as she tries to find her place and identity in a world that does not understand her.
The film is a satire of the social and sexual norms of the era, as well as a commentary on the contemporary issues of gender equality, body autonomy, and human rights. Lanthimos uses his trademark style of absurd humour, deadpan dialogue, and surreal imagery, to create a dark and absurd comedy that challenges and entertains the audience. The film also features a stunning cinematography, a haunting soundtrack, and a brilliant performance by the cast, especially Emma Stone, who delivers a fearless and nuanced portrayal of Bella.
A Critical Success
The film has received rave reviews from critics and audiences alike, who praised its originality, intelligence, and humour. The film has also been recognised by several awards, such as the Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival, the Best Actress for Emma Stone at the British Independent Film Awards, and the Best Screenplay at the European Film Awards. The film is now nominated for several Oscars, including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actress, and Best Original Screenplay.
The Wretched Ones is a film that defies expectations and conventions, and offers a fresh and daring perspective on the human condition. It is a film that will make you laugh, think, and feel, and that will stay with you long after the credits roll. It is a film that you should not miss.
