Poor Things Movie Review

His latest film, Poor Things, is perhaps the best work of his career, a twisted, darkly funny, wonderfully acted and incredibly unique adaptation of Alasdair Gray’s novel. Of course I haven’t read it. Because I needed to read such a novel. Case. Poor Things is a turbulent love story with steampunk elements that confronts social and gender norms and explores themes of identity, freedom, and morality. But who the hell cares? The film is explosively funny, supported by Lanthimos’ sheer drive to go to dark places, Tony McNamara’s incredibly sharp script, and great performances from everyone involved. Emma Stone gives her best performance here. I’ve never seen her like this before. Vera is the role of a lifetime, and Stone enjoys it like a rabid animal. I can see it in her hungry, evil eyes and I can’t look away from her. Equally great is Mark Ruffalo, who gives a wild and hilarious performance as the villain Duncan Wedderburn. This guy is a walking disaster (or should I say an angry jump?) when the two are together, and you’ll enjoy every moment of it.