The Enigmatic Tale of Poor Things
The new dark comedy Poor Things, directed by Yorgos Lanthimos and written by Ton McNamara, is set to hit theaters on December 22, 2023, and promises to be a thought-provoking and visually stunning experience. The film follows the peculiar story of Bella Baxter, portrayed by Emma Stone, who is resurrected by the mad scientist Dr. Godwin Baxter, played by Willem Dafoe. Dr. Godwin surgically implants the brain of Bella's unborn daughter into her head, resulting in a bizarre yet compelling tale of a woman growing from infancy in the body of her adult mother.
Emma Stone with a book in Poor Things.
The premise of Poor Things unexpectedly weaves together elements of feminist-driven fantasy, featuring captivating dreamscapes, witty dialogue, and intriguing characters. The film offers a unique portrayal of modern societal challenges, utilizing sharp metaphors to highlight the pitfalls of a patriarchal society. With its unconventional narrative, Poor Things has emerged as an early favorite in multiple categories for the 2024 Academy Awards.
Mark Ruffalo as Duncan Wedderburn, wearing a grey pinstripe suit and sitting under an umbrella, in Poor Things
The Absence of a Post-Credits Scene
Despite its mesmerizing and thought-provoking storyline, Poor Things does not feature a post-credits scene. Running for a total of 2 hours and 21 minutes, the film opts for a conclusion that ties up the central plot and character arcs without the need for additional scenes after the credits roll. While viewers may be captivated or puzzled by the ending, there is no need to linger through the credits, as the film's captivating artwork continues to unfold, providing a visual treat for the audience.
A disfigured Willem Dafoe sitting at a table in Poor Things.
The decision not to include a post-credits scene in Poor Things stems from the film's ability to effectively conclude its epic tale, presenting a powerful endpoint that resonates with the central themes and character development. The standalone nature of the film, based on Alasdair Gray's 1992 novel, further solidifies the rationale behind the absence of a post-credits scene, as the likelihood of a sequel is incredibly low.
ramy youssef and emma stone in poor things
The Phenomenal Success of Poor Things
Poor Things has garnered widespread acclaim and recognition, with 7 Golden Globe nominations, including Best Director, Best Screenplay, Best Picture (Musical or Comedy), and Best Actress (Musical or Comedy). The film has also made the shortlist for the 2023 Academy Awards in three categories: Makeup and Hairstyling, Original Score, and Visual Effects. With a rating of R for strong and pervasive content, Poor Things has captivated audiences and critics alike, earning a Rotten Tomatoes score of 92%.
emma stone stares into the distance in poor things
The film's success lies in its ability to deliver a compelling narrative that challenges societal norms, while showcasing the talents of its cast and crew. Emma Stone's portrayal of Bella Baxter, alongside the standout performances of the ensemble cast, has contributed to the film's critical acclaim and accolades. As Poor Things continues to make waves in the film industry, it stands as a testament to the power of storytelling and the impact of thought-provoking cinema.
bella's replacement felicity in poor things