The Fantastical Evolution of Poor Things: A Journey of Reanimation and Hilarity

The Mad Adventures of Bella Baxter

Poor Things is the latest film from director Yorgos Lanthimos, who previously worked on critically acclaimed movies like The Lobster and The Favorite. Based on the novel of the same name by Alasdair Gray, Poor Things follows the mad adventures of Bella Baxter, a woman reanimated by a scientist. The film features a star-studded cast, with Emma Stone, Mark Ruffalo, and Willem Dafoe in its lead roles.

Emma Stone with a book in Poor Things.

Following her reanimation at the hands of Dr. Godwin Baxter (Dafoe), Bella (Stone) yearns to experience the outside world. This longing leads to her running away with Duncan Wedderburn (Ruffalo), who takes her on a lavish world tour where Bella constantly evolves and matures in both meaningful and hilarious ways.

Emma Stone standing in the snow in Poor Things.

From filmmaker Yorgos Lanthimos and producer Emma Stone comes the incredible tale and fantastical evolution of Bella Baxter (Stone), a young woman brought back to life by the brilliant and unorthodox scientist Dr. Godwin Baxter (Willem Dafoe). Under Baxter’s protection, Bella is eager to learn. Hungry for the worldliness she is lacking, Bella runs off with Duncan Wedderburn (Mark Ruffalo), a slick and debauched lawyer, on a whirlwind adventure across the continents. Free from the prejudices of her times, Bella grows steadfast in her purpose to stand for equality and liberation.

Emma Stone aggressively eating in Poor Things

Interviews with Emma Stone and Mark Ruffalo

Screen Rant interviewed Poor Things stars Emma Stone and Mark Ruffalo at the red carpet premiere in New York City to discuss reanimation and funny moments on set. In the interview, Emma Stone revealed her humorous take on reanimating historical figures, expressing her desire to bring back her grandfather for a hangout. Mark Ruffalo, on the other hand, chose the iconic figure, Albert Einstein, for the opportunity to witness his perspective on the world today.

A disfigured Willem Dafoe sitting at a table in Poor Things.

Additionally, Mark Ruffalo shared insights into the comedic moments on set, highlighting scenes where laughter overtook the seriousness of the script. The scene where he proposed to Emma in the hallway and the moment he attempted to throw her overboard were both marked by uncontrollable laughter, creating a light-hearted atmosphere during the filming of Poor Things.

Mark Ruffalo embracing Emma Stone in Poor Things.

The Critical Acclaim and Impact of Poor Things

Since its release, Poor Things has garnered massive critical praise, commending the film on its dark humor and stellar lead performances. The captivating tale of reanimation and Bella Baxter's whirlwind journey has captivated audiences, drawing them into a world of fantasy and hilarity. The film's exploration of equality and liberation resonates deeply, as Bella's character evolves and stands as a symbol of empowerment and freedom.

Mark Ruffalo as Duncan Wedderburn, wearing a grey pinstripe suit and sitting under an umbrella, in Poor Things

As the film continues to enchant audiences in theaters, the star-studded cast and the unique storytelling of Poor Things have left a lasting impact on viewers, sparking conversations about reanimation, equality, and the power of humor in storytelling.