DirectorYorgos Lanthimos’latestblack comedyPoor Thingsis a rarely made gem. Right from its central Frankenstein-inspired character to the illustrious production design and its outrageous plot and themes of finding freedom, everything is commendable, to say the least. No wonderthe feature has bagged 11 Academy Award nominations this year, including Best Actress forEmma Stone, Best Director, and Best Picture. But what’s more impressive is itsbox office run, which’s still doing wonders globally and domestically, with each passing week.The feature has nabbed $81.2 million globallywith $30.3 million coming from the domestic box office and $50.9 million from international theaters.
It has now become the highest-grossing limited opening release of 2023 as well.Poor Thingsis doing well in various international territories such as Spain, Germany, Australia, France, and Italy, among others. In Japan,Poor Thingsis the number two non-local film. Upon its limited opening,the film delivered one of the best per-theater averages of 2023and was furtherexpanded domestically as well as internationally, where it explodedin light of several Oscar nominations.
A novel take on the Frankenstein lore, the film follows Bella Baxter (Stone), a woman brought back to life by an unorthodox mad scientist. A reborn Bella is childlike and unfazed by the prejudice of her times. Things take a turn when she runs off with a lawyer on an adventure across the continents and soon grows steadfast in her pursuit of liberation.
‘Poor Things’ Is Winning With Both Fans and Critics
In its themes,Poor Thingschronicles Bella’s complicated journey as she discovers the highs and lows of humanity. Stone does a wonderful job of portraying Bella by centering her charmingly in a story that is entirely unique and singular.The feature has a 92% critics' score on Rotten Tomatoesand is loved by fans around the world with a 79% score.
Along with Stone as Bella Baxter/Victoria Blessington, the movie also castsMark Ruffaloas Duncan Wedderburn,Willem Dafoeas Dr. Godwin Baxter,Ramy Youssefas Max McCandles,Christopher Abbottas Alfie Blessington,Kathryn Hunteras Madame Swiney, andJerrod Carmichaelas Harry Astley. Further rounding off the cast areHanna Schygullaas Martha,Margaret Qualleyas Felicity,Vicki Pepperdineas Mrs. Prim,Suzy Bembaas Toinette along withKeeley Forsyth,John Locke,Kate Handford,Owen Goodas Gerald, and more.
Poor Thingsis in theaters now. You can readour review hereand check out our conversation with Stone below:
Poor Things
The incredible tale about the fantastical evolution of Bella Baxter, a young woman brought back to life by the brilliant and unorthodox scientist Dr. Godwin Baxter.
