What is Poor Things about?

Poor Things is about a young woman who is brought back to life and fights for the equality and liberation that she didn’t get in her life.

'Poor Things' is a darkly comedic fantasy film directed by Yorgos Lanthimos, with a screenplay penned by Tony McNamara. Drawing inspiration from Alasdair Gray's 1992 novel of the same name, the story centers around a young Victorian woman who, following a crude resurrection by a scientist after her suicide, embarks on a journey of self-discovery and sexual liberation alongside a rakish lawyer."

What is the story of Poor Things?

The film's story revolves around Bella Baxter (played by Stone), a young woman who undergoes a resurrection orchestrated by the eccentric scientist Dr. Godwin Baxter (portrayed by Dafoe). Initially, Bella is wide-eyed and inexperienced, but she swiftly acquaints herself with the intricacies of the world and starts to form her own thoughts and convictions.

Her heart is soon captured by Duncan Wedderburn (played by Ruffalo), a charismatic yet morally ambiguous lawyer. Together, they embark on a whirlwind escapade spanning continents. During their journey, Bella unravels her sexuality and inner strength, boldly challenging the societal norms of her era.

She also gains profound insights into the significance of equality and justice, ultimately emerging as a fervent advocate for the rights of the marginalized.

What are the themes of Poor Things?

Here are some of the themes observed in Poor Things:

• Gender Roles: Bella shatters the conventions of her era by defying traditional gender norms. Her intelligence, independence, and sexual assertiveness set her apart in a society steeped in rigid expectations.

• Classism: Despite her humble origins, Bella ascends the social ladder, disrupting established hierarchies. Her unwavering dedication to championing the rights of the underprivileged challenges the prevailing norms of her time.

• Power Dynamics: Bella undergoes a transformative journey, gaining insight into the diverse forms of power that shape the world. Armed with her own influence, she dedicates herself to uplifting others, harnessing her strength for the greater good.

• The Essence of Existence: Bella's odyssey compels her to scrutinize the very essence of life and humanity itself. It prompts profound contemplation on the purpose of existence and the quintessence of being human.

Who plays Bella in Poor Things?

American actress Emma Stone plays Bella and she was born on November 6, 1988 in Scottsdale, Arizona to Krista Jean Stone and Jefferey Charles Stone. Stone started doing stage plays when she was young and joined Kenneth Grahame’s “ The Wind in the Willows.” She kept doing many theatre productions until the age of fifteen.

At that point in time, she decided that she would pursue a career in acting. Stone moved with her mother to pursue a full-time acting career in Los Angeles. She is known for her roles in movies like Easy-A, The Amazing Spider-Man, Birdman, La La Land, Zombieland, The Favourite, and Cruella.