2star

Poor Things (2023)

Get ready to dive into the wild world of Poor Things, a 2023 film that's all about delivering a cinematic experience. I'm talking top-notch build quality, buttons that don't feel like they're gonna break the minute you touch 'em, and battery life that's actually longer than you'd expect. Plus, our shipping options are crazy affordable, and you can bet your bottom dollar on getting top-notch customer support every step of the way. And if you're not completely stoked with your purchase, returns are totally accepted. We're talkin' a value for money that's hard to beat.

chevron_right

I walked into Poor Things expecting a masterpiece, but it's a shallow mess from start to finish

Name: I walked into Poor Things expecting a masterpiece, but it's a shallow mess from start to finish
Item: Poor Things (2023)
Rating: 2
Author: allisonCook

summarizeEditor's Summary

I went into Poor Things expecting a masterpiece, but it's a shallow mess from start to finish. The film's steampunk setting and impressive cast couldn't save it from a weak storyline and underdeveloped characters. Yorgos Lanthimos' direction promised much, but this 2023 film failed to deliver on its hype. With a runtime of 2 hours and 20 minutes, Poor Things tries to pack too many themes into its narrative, resulting in a disjointed viewing experience. While Emma Stone shines in her role, bringing a spark to an otherwise dull film, the rest of the cast delivers solid performances, even if the characters are underdeveloped. The film's steampunk setting is visually stunning, with impressive costumes and production design. The cinematography is noteworthy, capturing the intricate details of the steampunk world. However, the storyline is weak and predictable, with too many plot holes. The characters are underdeveloped and lack depth, making it hard to become invested. The film tries to tackle too many themes, resulting in a disjointed viewing experience. The pacing is slow, with long stretches of boring dialogue and exposition. The film's reliance on shock value and gore is off-putting and unnecessary. The ending is unsatisfying and feels like a cop-out. If you're a fan of steampunk or Emma Stone, you might find some redeeming qualities, but overall, this film is a total letdown.

settingsSpecifications

KararKötü

Kalite4/10

Konusu6/10

Görünüm8/10

Poor Things Review: A Shallow Mess from Start to Finish

Hello there!

I'm excited to share my thoughts on Poor Things, the 2023 film directed by Yorgos Lanthimos. As a fan of his impressive track record and the rave reviews it received, I was really looking forward to watching this steampunk film.

Unfortunately, it left me feeling underwhelmed. It's like that meme where someone leaves their sneakers in a modern art gallery in New York, and people think it's a real exhibit. That's kinda how I felt after watching Poor Things.

Okay, let me break it down for you.

About the film

Poor Things is a 2023 steampunk film directed by Yorgos Lanthimos, strictly 18+. The movie clocks in at 2 hours and 20 minutes, which is pretty standard for today's films. It's a steampunk film, which I'll get into later.

Steampunk, or steampunk, is a subgenre of science fiction that draws inspiration from 19th-century technology and aesthetics. It's all about the steam-powered machinery and Victorian-era aesthetics. It originated in the 1980s as a literary movement and has since evolved into a distinct art style, cultural movement, and subculture. It's basically a more fantastical take on cyberpunk.

For me, this is a classic black comedy with a small amount of humor. There were only a couple of decent dark jokes that made me smile.

The film is pretty unusual overall. I'd like to praise the idea, storyline, and visual elements, but somehow I wanted more depth. It felt like the meaning was hidden too well, making it hard for everyone to grasp.

My impressions of the film 'Poor Things' 2023 are similar to those of the film 'The Philosophers' 2013. When I read the description, I thought to myself, 'This is going to be a bomb, the storyline is impossible to mess up.' I finished watching with the thought, 'No, it's impossible, but you managed to do it.'

Awards

The film has a truckload of awards. I agree with all the awards, except for 'Best Picture.'

Academy Awards, 2024

Winner (4):

Best Actress (Emma Stone)Best Production DesignBest Costume DesignBest Makeup and Hairstyling

Golden Globe Awards, 2024

Winner (2):

Best Motion Picture – Musical or ComedyBest Actress – Motion Picture Musical or Comedy (Emma Stone)

Venice Film Festival, 2023

Winner (1):

Golden Lion

Plot

I've been transported to Victorian London, where the unhinged surgeon Godwin dredges up a young pregnant woman from the Thames, transplants her unborn child's brain into her own body, and brings her back to life. At first, Bella moves like a broken doll and has a severely limited vocabulary, but she quickly learns. To observe her, Godwin calls in the help of a medical student named Max, who also looks like a great catch for Bella, but playboy lawyer Duncan Wedderburn takes a shine to her and whisks her away on a journey where she discovers the world and herself.

I thought the whole intrigue would be about the journey and Bella's newfound understanding of the world, but it seems the entire plot is centered around the former. Even if I wanted to spoil it, I couldn't. What do you think of the phrase 'whisks her away on a journey where she discovers the world and herself'?

I imagined the journey and Bella's perspective on the world as a child in an adult's body, but what we get is a sugar-coated tale of drinking, sex, and a million pillow talk scenes with Emma Stone.

I'm talking about a deep, meaningful exploration of the self, but what we get is surface-level and we're just watching Bella become sadder with each passing scene.

Visuals and audio

The visuals are quite unique. The film starts in black and white, and the music is oppressive. I was fully immersed in the vibe of 'Pro urodov i lyudei' by Balabanov. I wanted to turn it off.

I was really impressed by the costumes. They're so well-made, they can even salvage a terrible film atmosphere. The stomach-churning start is full of gratuitous violence.

There's a scene with a frog in the movie.

It takes us ages to get to this scene, and then we're dragged out of it for 10 minutes, all for a single disgusting shot. What's the point of that? Are kids just naturally cruel? Nope, it's just the director putting us in a morgue-like atmosphere with freaks. Just for kicks, I guess, to make us feel a little queasy.

I'm still stumped about why some black-and-white scenes at the beginning are stretched out, like someone's snooping. I still didn't get an answer by the end of the film.

Then the film smoothly transitions to color, and the color gets brighter and brighter.

Some shots really stood out to me. The work of the artists is top-notch. By this point, the film is actually enjoyable to watch. I was glad the black-and-white part was over.

The actors have great makeup.

But the costumes are even better.

Acting

I really loved the acting. Everyone did a great job, and Emma Stone deserved that Oscar.

I've got to say, the acting in this movie feels like it's lightyears ahead of the actual film. It's like the actors and the story are two separate things. You know, it's like watching a seasoned actress kill it in a free performance at a university student event. You want to be blown away, but the setting just doesn't seem to fit, and you're left with this weird feeling.

I wish they'd given Emma an Oscar for a role that's more deserving, you know?

I really loved Mark Ruffalo.

It's clear he's not just playing a different character, he's a completely different actor. He's nailed it out of 10.

Questions about the film

I've got some questions about the movie's hidden meanings. At one point, it seemed like the whole film was built around one line:

I only envy the men who've spent time with you, but I don't condemn you. Your body, Bella Baxter, give it to whoever you want.

No condemnation of women, no matter what they do. I get that it's supposed to be funny, but why did they put those words in the hero's mouth? You can't just set up a situation like that and then not follow through. It looks weird.

I'm also confused about the implied pedophilia. Okay, fine, maybe there's something there. But what are we supposed to take away from the film? That it's okay for an adult to take a kid on a trip? Thanks for pointing out a problem, I guess.

It also seemed weird to me that the characters just appear out of nowhere and then disappear. Bella and Godwin have some backstory, but the others don't. They just show up and have no history.

For example, the next 'girl.'

I was expecting more, but it just didn't deliver. The characters are kinda underdeveloped, and that's especially true for Victoria's husband, General. We don't get to know anything about him - where he's from, what he's about. And as for Victoria, we barely get a glimpse into her life.

The Verdict

Poor Things 2023 is a total letdown. The idea was interesting, but the execution is lacking. Don't waste your time - you won't be able to finish it anyway. Most viewers will switch off during the first half, just to grab a drink and calm their stomachs.

Thanks for sticking with me.

live_helpFeatured FAQ

Is Poor Things suitable for all audiences?

No, Poor Things is rated 18+ due to its mature themes, graphic content, and strong language. Viewer discretion is advised.

What is the runtime of Poor Things?

Poor Things clocks in at 2 hours and 20 minutes, which is a standard runtime for most films.

Is Poor Things based on a true story?

No, Poor Things is a work of fiction, although it may draw inspiration from historical events and cultural movements.

What is steampunk, and how does it relate to Poor Things?

Steampunk is a subgenre of science fiction that draws inspiration from 19th-century technology and aesthetics. Poor Things is a steampunk film, featuring steam-powered machinery and Victorian-era aesthetics.

Who directed Poor Things?

Poor Things was directed by Yorgos Lanthimos, a critically acclaimed filmmaker known for his unique style and innovative storytelling.

What are some of the film's themes and motifs?

Poor Things explores themes of femininity, empowerment, and the constraints placed on women during the Victorian era. The film also touches on the dangers of unchecked power and the consequences of playing with forces beyond human control.

Is Poor Things worth watching?

While Poor Things has some redeeming qualities, such as Emma Stone's performance and the film's steampunk setting, it ultimately falls flat due to its weak storyline and underdeveloped characters. If you're a fan of steampunk or Emma Stone, you might find some enjoyment, but overall, the film is a disappointment.

Can I return or exchange Poor Things if I'm not satisfied?

Please check the film's return and exchange policies with your local theater or streaming service. Some platforms may offer refunds or exchanges, while others may not.

Is Poor Things available to stream or purchase?

Poor Things is available to stream on various platforms, including Netflix and Amazon Prime. You can also purchase a digital copy or DVD/Blu-ray disc through online retailers.

What are some of the film's notable awards or nominations?

Poor Things has received several nominations, including a few for Emma Stone's performance. However, it has not won any major awards.

Is Poor Things part of a larger franchise or series?

No, Poor Things is a standalone film and not part of a larger franchise or series.

What are some of the film's notable cast members?

Poor Things features an impressive cast, including Emma Stone, Willem Dafoe, and Margot Robbie.

What are some of the film's notable locations or settings?

Poor Things was filmed on location in various parts of the world, including the UK and Australia. The film's steampunk world is richly detailed and immersive, with intricate sets and costumes.

check_circlePros

•Emma Stone shines in her role, bringing a spark to an otherwise dull film
•The film's steampunk setting is visually stunning, with impressive costumes and production design
•The cinematography is noteworthy, capturing the intricate details of the steampunk world
•The cast delivers solid performances, even if the characters are underdeveloped
•The film's themes of femininity and empowerment are timely and thought-provoking
•The score is haunting and atmospheric, adding to the film's overall mood
•The film's steampunk world is richly detailed and immersive
•The production design is impressive, with intricate sets and costumes

cancelCons

•The storyline is weak and predictable, with too many plot holes
•The characters are underdeveloped and lack depth, making it hard to become invested
•The film tries to tackle too many themes, resulting in a disjointed viewing experience
•The pacing is slow, with long stretches of boring dialogue and exposition
•The film's reliance on shock value and gore is off-putting and unnecessary
•The ending is unsatisfying and feels like a cop-out
•The film's characters are poorly developed and lack motivation
•The storyline is overly complex and hard to follow