Bugonia

If you're into dark comedies that are as bizarre as they are thought-provoking, Bugonia might just be your next cinematic obsession. Directed by Yorgos Lanthimos, known for his offbeat storytelling, this absurdist black comedy thriller dives headfirst into conspiracy theories, alien paranoia, and the fine line between madness and truth.

The story centers on two young men—Teddy, a conspiracy-obsessed beekeeper, and his cousin Don—who kidnap Michelle Fuller, a powerful pharmaceutical CEO played by Emma Stone. Convinced she's an alien plotting Earth's destruction, they imprison her in a basement and try to force a confession. What follows is a twisted, often surreal interrogation that spirals into something much bigger and stranger than anyone could have expected.

Emma Stone and Jesse Plemons (as Teddy) deliver standout performances, with critics praising their chemistry and commitment to the film’s wild tone. Stone even shaved her head for the role, and it pays off in a performance that’s both chilling and oddly sympathetic. Plemons, meanwhile, brings a mix of intensity and vulnerability that makes his character both terrifying and tragic.

Bugonia is a remake of the 2003 South Korean cult film Save the Green Planet!, but Lanthimos puts his own stamp on it with striking visuals, a haunting score by Jerskin Fendrix, and a narrative that blends sci-fi, satire, and psychological horror. Shot mostly in VistaVision, the film looks stunning, with cinematographer Robbie Ryan capturing everything from grimy basements to eerie alien landscapes in vivid detail.

This isn’t a film for everyone. If you’re squeamish about gore or prefer your comedies light and breezy, Bugonia might be a bit much. It’s grim, intense, and at times deeply unsettling. But for fans of Lanthimos’ previous work—or anyone who enjoys a movie that challenges expectations and dives into the weird—it’s a must-watch.

Bugonia has received mostly positive reviews, with critics calling it “bonkers entertainment” and praising its sharp commentary on modern society. It’s not Lanthimos’ funniest or most accessible film, but it’s certainly one of his most ambitious. Whether you see it as a cautionary tale, a sci-fi satire, or just a wild ride, Bugonia is a film that sticks with you long after the credits roll.