Is Poor Things magical realism? Is Poor Things a good movie?

Let’s delve into the fascinating world of Poor Things, a film directed by Yorgos Lanthimos and based on the 1992 novel by Alasdair Gray. This surreal steampunk spectacular is a riotous dissection of gender dynamics, and perhaps the most entertaining entry in Lanthimos’ accomplished career.

In Victorian London, we meet Bella Baxter (played by Emma Stone), a young woman who lives in a tasteful townhouse with Dr. Godwin Baxter (Willem Dafoe), a mad scientist who also serves as her father figure. Bella behaves like a toddler at first, grunting out words and throwing plates, but her journey is one of self-discovery and enlightenment. She seeks to become her truest self and establish enriching relationships with people who genuinely love her.

Max McCandles (Ramy Youssef), one of Godwin’s students, falls in love with Bella and asks her to marry him. However, Bella’s life takes another turn when she encounters Duncan Wedderburn (Mark Ruffalo), an obvious cad who whisks her away on a lavish world tour filled with vigorous sex (which Bella humorously refers to as “furious jumping” in her rapidly maturing mind). Bella’s independence and brash humor shine through during these escapades.

Emma Stone’s performance as Bella is nothing short of remarkable. She starts out big and broad, evolving physically and verbally as Bella matures. Stone’s portrayal captures both the character’s childlike origins and her eventual command as a sexually liberated woman. It’s wildly alive and unpredictable—a wonder to behold .

The film premiered at the 80th Venice International Film Festival, where it won the Golden Lion. The colorful, fantastical setting created by the production designers adds to the film’s allure. And while it may sound familiar on the surface, Poor Things surprises us with its wonderfully bizarre execution, making it Yorgos Lanthimos’ best work yet.