After Emma Stone (one of my all-time favorite actresses) ultimately won her second Oscar for her performance in “Poor Things,” she and Yorgos Lanthimos collaborated in an epic anthology film, “Kinds of Kindness.” Unlike the former, it was a disappointment. They later worked on another film. This time, a sci-fi comedy, titled, “Bugonia.” An American remake of a South Korean film, “Save the Green Planet,” it follows two guys who kidnap a CEO who convince her she’s an alien from another planet who’s destined to wipe out Earth.
Bugonia officially premiered at the 82nd Venice International Film Festival on August 28, 2025 and later given a theatrical release on Halloween. It received praise from critics and movie goers alike. Unfortunately, it flopped at the box office. Recently, Emma Stone & Jesse Plemons are nominated for their performances in the upcoming 83rd Golden Globe Awards. Bugonia is also nominated for “Best Musical or Comedy.” Before the aforementioned awards ceremony airs/streams on CBS/Paramount Plus, I wanna share my thoughts on one of my highly anticipated films of 2025. One not thing, I’m working on my list of Top 12 Best Films of 2025. It may take a long time to coordinate. So bear with me, folks.
Today’s review contains no crucial SPOILERS whatsoever. I’m giving y’all a chance to see this gem.
Powerful & Weak Aspects
Powerful: Emma Stone, Jesse Plemons & Aidan Delbis all did an excellent job for their respective performances.
Fun Facts
- Rather than wearing a bald cap, Emma actually shaved her head. You can tell she took full commitment like Natalie Portman, (V for Vendetta) Sofia Vassilieva, (My Sister’s Keeper) Charlize Theron, (Mad Max: Fury Road) Millie Bobby Brown (Stranger Things) & Joey King (The Act) also shaved their heads.
- Movie goers went to a special screening for free by shaving their heads. That would’ve been a free pass for me.
- Green Day’s “Basket Case” is played during in an important scene. It was also used in the teaser trailer. By the way, Green Day is one of my favorite bands.
Random Thoughts
- I confess, I have never seen Save the Green Planet.
- I never got a chance to see Bugonia in theaters. I’ve been busy watching a ton of current TV shows and anime including “Demon Slayer,” “Shangri-La Frontier” & “Tulsa King.”
- Although produced by Universal’s independent subsidiary, Focus Features, the film has an A24 vibe.
Yorgos Lanthismos did a great job directing. He also co-produced the film along with Emma. A huge important. Their previous film, Kinds of Kindness was a dud.
Will Tracy (HBO’s Succession, The Regime, The Menu) wrote the script. He made sure certain plot points remain intact.
Jerskin Fendrix (Poor Things) orchestrated the soundtrack.
Death Scenes are brutal. If you have a weak stomach, being a barf bag.
Cinematography was shot in 35mm with VistaVison cameras. Not a single trace of technical problems present.
Alicia Silverstone makes an appearance as Teddy’s mom.
Teddy & Don’s masks before they kidnap Michelle gave me a chuckle.
We learn about Teddy’s background. He’s a unique a villain.
Don’t expect this film containing frickin’ laser beams or robots. This is a unique dialogue driven flick (like a Quentin Tarantino film) involving two conspiracy nut jobs tricking a CEO she’s an alien.
I can’t tell you how it ends. You’re gonna have to see for yourself. Upon first viewing, it’s worth a rewatch for subtle clues.
Weak: Pacing can be slow at times. It didn’t bother me at all. When it the film makes it to Act 3, all I can say is, Holy Crap. Worth a payoff. I’ll let this con slide.
The Final Verdict: A, FOR APEX!
For the first time, I’ve ranked a 2025 movie my highest grade. Bugonia takes the top spot. Previous 2025 films I reviewed were near-perfect. From my Point of View, Bugonia is a Movie of the Year contender. If you’re looking for something unique to watch, give this one a try.
Nickthemoviecritic.com 