About ‘Poor Things’: What is The Award-Winning Film About?

The 2023 film featuring Emma Stone, Willem Dafoe, Mark Ruffalo and Ramy Youssef offers a whimsical and offbeat interpretation of the classic Frankenstein tale. ‘Poor Things’ centres around Bella Baxter (portrayed by Stone), a unique creation crafted by the scientist and mortician Godwin Baxter (played by Willem Dafoe). 

Bella’s existence begins when Godwin implants the brain of a deceased woman’s baby into her body following the woman’s tragic suicide. Ramy Youssef takes on the role of Max McCandles, Godwin’s assistant, who is assigned to observe Bella’s behaviour and, unexpectedly, finds himself falling deeply in love with her.

Mark Ruffalo portrays Duncan Wedderburn, a lawyer who embarks on a European adventure with Bella, gradually becoming infatuated with her as well. Ruffalo described the collaborative process on set, highlighting weeks of rehearsal filled with theatre games and camaraderie that fostered a sense of safety and enjoyment among the cast.

The film has garnered significant attention, earning nominations for 11 Academy Awards, including ‘Best Picture’ and ‘Best Adapted Screenplay.’ Emma Stone and Mark Ruffalo received individual nominations for ‘Best Actress’ and ‘Best Supporting Actor,’ respectively. Additionally, director Yorgos Lanthimos is recognized in the ‘Best Director’ category.

While ‘Poor Things’ draws inspiration from Alastair Gray’s 1992 novel of the same name, Lanthimos took creative liberties in adapting the story. Both the novel and the film conclude with the aftermath of Bella’s wedding; however, the movie diverges in its narrative trajectory. Bella initially leaves Max at the altar and returns to her former life with Alfie. 

Yet, she soon realises the oppressive nature of Alfie’s control and takes drastic action, ultimately finding happiness alongside Max on Godwin’s estate after an unconventional brain swap involving Alfie and a goat.

-Sushmita Sarkar