‘Poor Things’ Review
If there’s anything “Poor Things” does better than any other movie this year, it’s getting us talking. I’ve heard the highest of praise for this movie, yet also the harshest of criticisms. Some are calling this movie a masterpiece, while others are saying it’s discount-rate satire. Personally, I’m in love with this film, and through my research and insights, I’d like to clarify what this movie is trying to tell us through its many obscure symbols, striking visuals, and countless references. So, let’s dive into it.
The Inspiration:
The original source material that this film is adapting is a novel published in 1992, also titled “Poor Things” by Alistair Gray. The setup for this novel is very similar to the film, reimagining the classic Frankenstein story in a comedic, quirky, and satirical light. The film and the book share the same premise, where a pregnant suicide victim is brought back to life by a mad scientist, replacing her brain with the premature brain of her unborn child. The main character, Bella Baxter, portrayed by Stone, embarks on a journey encountering a series of interesting and diverse characters, turning “Poor Things” into a thought-provoking social and political allegory. The film, unlike the book, is entirely told through Bella’s perspective, using narrative and visual techniques to capture her childlike mind, making every scene grand, wondrous, and curious.
The Time Period:
The book was inspired by the Victorian era of novels, commonly known for its social commentary satire. This influence is evident in the film’s set design, wardrobe, and style of social commentary. However, the film’s team wanted to incorporate details from various other time periods to ensure that its criticisms on society were relevant to all eras, including the present. Thus, the film ventures into classic and futuristic styles, combining elements from different time periods in its costumes, set design, and narrative.
The Message:
When it comes to the direct message of the film, there isn’t a straightforward one. Director Yorgos Lanthimos stated that the film explores conflicts in human behavior and society without preaching directly to the audience. Through Bella’s unique journey, the film points out ironies and absurdities in a satirical parallel world, making viewers realize the absurdity of the real world. Bella’s rapid mental and emotional growth allows her to reject societal norms and expectations placed on women, showcasing the importance of independence and self-awareness.
The Symbolism:
The characters in the film symbolize various beliefs, philosophies, and forms of admiration. For instance, William Defoe’s character, Godwin, represents how beliefs in philosophy, spirituality, and religion can shape us from a young age. Bella’s encounters with different characters allow her to develop her own morals and values. Duncan and Max represent two opposing forms of male admiration, with Duncan embodying superficiality and Max representing genuineness. Bella herself symbolizes a second shot at life, breaking free from intergenerational trauma and oppression, and embracing independence and liberation.
In conclusion, “Poor Things” is not just a movie; it’s a multi-layered exploration of human behavior, society, and individual liberation. Through its intricate symbolism, vivid visuals, and thought-provoking narrative, it challenges viewers to question societal norms and embrace authenticity. So, whether you see it as a masterpiece or discount-rate satire, “Poor Things” undoubtedly leaves a lasting impression, sparking conversations and reflections long after the credits roll.
