Poor Things is a 2023 film directed by Yorgos Lanthimos and written by Tony McNamara, based on the 1992 novel by Alasdair Gray. The film is a darkly comic and surreal exploration of identity, love, and morality. Set in Victorian-era Scotland, Poor Things follows the story of Bella Baxter, a woman who is brought back to life by a mad scientist, Dr. Godwin Baxter, after her tragic death. The film is a bizarre and visually striking journey through Bella’s unconventional and often grotesque life as she navigates the complexities of her reanimated existence.

The protagonist, Bella, played by Emma Stone, is a unique and complex character who embodies a mixture of innocence and wild, unrestrained curiosity. After being revived by Dr. Baxter, Bella is given a second chance at life but with no memories of her past. This allows her to explore the world with a fresh perspective, free from the constraints of social norms and expectations. Her relationship with Dr. Baxter, which begins as one of creator and creation, becomes increasingly strange as Bella asserts her own desires and autonomy.

As Bella begins to explore her newfound independence, she enters into a romantic and tumultuous relationship with Duncan Wedderburn, a lawyer with his own set of moral ambiguities. The dynamic between Bella and Duncan is a central aspect of the film, highlighting themes of love, control, and self-discovery. Their interactions are often absurd, yet revealing, offering a deep look into the complexities of human relationships and the tension between freedom and constraint.

The film’s unique visual style is a key component of its storytelling. Lanthimos, known for his distinct cinematic approach, creates a visually striking world that blends the grotesque with the whimsical. The film’s costumes, set designs, and lighting contribute to a dreamlike atmosphere, enhancing the sense of surrealism and eccentricity that pervades the story. The contrast between the dark, moody visuals and the film’s absurd, darkly comic moments creates a captivating and memorable cinematic experience.

At its core, Poor Things is a commentary on the nature of identity and the search for selfhood. Bella’s journey is one of self-discovery as she grapples with the reality of her reanimated existence and attempts to find her place in a society that views her as an anomaly. The film explores themes of freedom, agency, and the complex relationship between creator and creation. Bella’s struggle to define herself on her own terms is both empowering and tragic, as she confronts the boundaries placed upon her by others and by her own circumstances.

In conclusion, Poor Things is a bold and thought-provoking film that combines dark humor, surrealism, and a unique exploration of human identity. Lanthimos’ direction and McNamara’s screenplay bring to life a story that is both absurd and deeply meaningful, with strong performances, especially from Emma Stone, anchoring the emotional depth of the film. It is a striking meditation on life, love, and the quest for autonomy, wrapped in a bizarre and visually arresting package that is sure to leave a lasting impression on viewers.