Poor Things and the 5 messages that should raise concern.
Updated 01-09-2024
George Lanthimos’ Poor Things is captivating cinemas worldwide. The images, the elaborate narrative, the aesthetics and, undoubtedly, Emma Stone’s performance have played a decisive role in the film’s appeal. Winning major prestigious awards has fuelled even more debate and curiosity. However, beyond the recognition, it is worth taking a closer look at the important messages embodied in the film.
Poor Things has become a cinematic success, sweeping major awards. From winning the coveted Golden Lion at the 80th Venice Film Festival in 2023 to triumphing at the 2024 Golden Globes, the film’s recognition is undeniable. Its success extends all the way to the Oscars. Emma Stone secured the award for Best Supporting Actress, while the accolades for direction, makeup, hairstyle and costume choices highlighted its exceptional quality.
With additional accolades from the Art Directors Guild category, the movie solidifies its position as a cinematic masterpiece, captivating audiences worldwide.
In addition, the film won the FIPRESCI Grand Prix after being selected as the Film of the Year 2024 by the International Federation of Film Critics. The FIPRESCI Grand Prix will be officially awarded on 20 September at the San Sebastian Film Festival. It is worth noting that the Greek director received this recognition from international critics for the first time in his career.
Winning major prestigious awards has fuelled even more debate and curiosity. However, beyond the recognition, it is worth taking a closer look at the important messages the film projects.
About Poor things...
Poor Things tells a compelling story that breaks from the norm. The story of Bella Baxter, played by Emma Stone. After drowning, Bella is brought back to life by the eccentric Dr. Godwin Baxter, played by Willem Dafoe. The plot delves into the mystery behind Bella’s resurrection and explores the complexities of her new life.
The film plays with the blurred line between life and death; taking viewers into a world full of dark humour and unexpected twists and turns. It is a satirical look at social expectations. It delves into the challenges women face through the adventures of the heroine. Challenges they experience throughout their lives, no matter where they are.
Amidst the controversy, Poor Things invites us to explore the deeper issues it presents. To extend the conversation beyond the screen by presenting 5 messages that relate to women.
1. Woman as property
From the very beginning, the film presents woman as property. The very act of Bella’s resurrection, while appearing as a benevolent act, is in fact, layered. It hides hints of control and manipulation. Bella is presented as a creation, a possession that does not allow her to know the real world.
As the film unfolds, the notion that women are seen as the property of men becomes increasingly palpable With the characters trying to assert themselves and manipulate her, a woman’s journey in real life is shown. . A manipulation that is usually justified under the guise of protection.
2. Women's autonomy
Bella Baxter is a bold symbol of female independence. Her character resists societal expectations, showcasing the strength and determination of women; her resilience challenges established norms, prompting viewers to rethink preconceived ideas.
Handling each woman’s life is a decision for each individual woman. No one and nothing should interfere with that independence. Self-determination is the powerful journey of individuals asserting control over their lives, and this is highlighted through the film.
We couldn’t help but focus on the scene that powerfully illustrates every woman’s need for autonomy. The much talked about scene of Bella dancing in Lisbon expresses her desire to be herself. To have fun and dance alone, while her partner tries to contain and direct her.
3. Female sexuality
The film honestly exposes the harsh criticism that women often face in relation to their sexuality, unlike men. Throughout the film, Bella discovers her body, the need to experiment and the need to have fun. This need becomes a symbol of defiance against societal notions that dictate how women should express their desires. The film highlights a double-standard regime where men are rewarded for their sexual prowess, but women are judged and characterized negatively.
At the same time, it addresses the paradox where men encourage a woman’s sexual exploration, but only within the boundaries and terms of their relationship. They desire the woman to be a symbol of sexuality but only for them. When women dare to break out of these boundaries, society’s attitude changes and relationships often undergo a transformation. We find that hypocrisy is deeply rooted in the perceptions of the autonomy of female sexuality.
4. The reprocessing
There are many different opinions regarding the treatment. Opinions and stereotypes that characterize both the people who do it as a profession and the people who choose it for pleasure. The film presents the way each woman chooses to manage her body and the criticism she receives for it. The criticism that usually comes from the very individuals who choose this particular way for sexual intercourse. Bella’s “clients” were from all social backgrounds, family men to church people. Poor Things realistically conveys both the circumstances and the reality surrounding sex work.
5. Motherhood and woman
How many times have we heard from those around us that the destiny of every woman is family and motherhood? Certainly this choice may be part of some women’s lives, but it is neither a one-way street nor a unique status. The film challenges society’s insistence that a woman’s value lies in motherhood. It urges viewers to reconsider and expand their views on female identity. It highlights women’s diverse aspirations and choices beyond traditional roles.
Poor Things is not just a tale from the past. Its subtle allusions to women’s power and independence are very much in touch with today. Emma Stone’s character, Bella,challenges societal prejudices , making us think about how women manage others’ expectations of us. The film quietly talks about the struggles we face, causing us to reflect on where we are on issues such as autonomy, sexuality and motherhood. It is more than a period piece. It’s a reminder that the journey for women’s rights continues, making Poor Things not only a story about then, nor a fictional story, but also a conversation starter for now.
