Poor Things movie review: Emma Stone captivating Oscar-nominated visually stunning tale Yorgos Lanthimos

Emma Stone shines in Yorgos Lanthimos' Poor Things as Bella Baxter, a woman with a unique story of self-discovery and resilience.

When a character in a film truly resonates with audiences, their quirks and characteristics linger in our minds long after the credits roll. Bella Baxter in Yorgos Lanthimos' "Poor Things," portrayed by Emma Stone with remarkable intensity, is one such character. She is a unique experiment, a woman with the brain of her own unborn child, separated from her body after a suicide attempt. Bella is a complex figure, embodying elements of both mother and daughter while also standing as her own individual creation.

As Bella navigates through life's highs and lows, from boundless pleasure to heart-wrenching violence, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery and transformation. Lanthimos skillfully adapts Alasdair Gray's novel with a touch of humor and begins Bella's narrative in black and white, symbolizing her initial naivety and innocence. Stone portrays Bella's early stages with a sense of wonder and vulnerability, under the watchful eye of her guardian, Godwin Baxter (portrayed by Willem Dafoe).

Godwin, a secretive surgeon, shields Bella from the world, with only the observant Max McCandles (played by Ramy Youssef) bearing witness to her progress. Bella's life takes a dramatic turn when she encounters the manipulative lawyer Duncan Wedderburn (portrayed by Mark Ruffalo), leading her into a world of color and complexity. Through her exploration of sexuality and self-ownership, Bella evolves into a woman unafraid to challenge societal norms and expectations.

"Poor Things" delves into the absurdities of human existence, with Bella's journey serving as a metaphor for the complexities of life and identity. Lanthimos crafts a visually stunning world, with production design, cinematography, and costume work that transport viewers into Bella's evolving mindset. Emma Stone's performance as Bella is a masterclass in character development, showcasing the evolution of a woman grappling with her place in the world.

As Bella confronts her past and embraces her future, Stone's portrayal captures the essence of resilience and growth. "Poor Things" is a testament to Lanthimos' directorial prowess and Stone's acting prowess, offering audiences a thought-provoking exploration of identity, agency, and self-discovery. In Bella's quest for fulfillment and understanding, she embodies the complexities of the human experience, challenging viewers to embrace life's joys and sorrows with courage and curiosity.

"Poor Things" is a cinematic triumph, a testament to the power of storytelling and character development. As Bella's journey unfolds on screen, audiences are drawn into a world of beauty, violence, and transformation. Emma Stone's portrayal of Bella Baxter is a tour de force, solidifying her as one of the most talented actors of her generation. To experience "Poor Things" is to embark on a journey of self-discovery and introspection, guided by a character whose resilience and spirit inspire us to embrace life's complexities with open hearts and minds.

You can watch "Poor Things" on Disney + Hotstar, immersing yourself in a world of wonder, emotion, and growth.

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