Bugonia | Film Review

 

Two men (Jesse Plemons and Aidan Delbis) kidnap a CEO (Emma Stone) when they become convinced that she is an alien trying to destroy Earth.

This one was on my radar before I knew the premise, purely based on it's Oscar potential. So I was really surprised to see what it was about. But because the premise is really interesting, and I liked 'Poor Things' by the same director (and starring Emma Stone) I was looking forward to seeing it.

I had to let this film sit with me for a bit because I wasn't sure how I felt about it, it's a really odd mix. I've come to the conclusion that I did like it, but it wasn't on the top end of the Best Picture nominees for me.

It had a slow start. Given we know the basic premise, we're looking forward to getting into it, but it takes way too long to actually start. And an argument could be made that it's good to get to know the characters first, but I don't think we get to know them that well.

There were scenes that were very dialogue-heavy, and this didn't really work for me. The dinner table scene in particular, not only did it bring your adrenaline and excitement right down, but it's the least entertaining scene. I didn't care about what they were saying, and it was one of the only times throughout the film where I just felt bored.

The score is really interesting, but at times takes attention from the scene it's used in. It can be overpowering.

The pacing is good - the film moves really quickly.

The performances were great. I definitely think Plemons deserved a nomination as well as Stone; his was probably the hardest and most entertaining performance.

The third act was the best by far. It was fun, entertaining, and even though I predicted what was going to happen, it was still entertaining and exciting to watch.

So overall this film is a big mix of things, some I liked and some I didn't. I was entertained, and I loved that the premise was so unique, but I don't think it's one I'd go back to.

6.5/10