Bugonia (2025)

Bugonia (2025)

A dark comedy thriller with several Academy Award nominations. 

Laura’s Rating: 3.5/5 Stars

Plot: Conspiracy theorist Teddy and his cousin Don kidnap a high powered CEO, convinced that she is an alien sent to bring about the destruction of planet Earth. 

Analysis: This movie gave me lots to think about. Is Teddy evil? A victim of circumstances? Both? Should we be sympathetic to the rich CEO? The movie challenges your ideas about the characters over and over. Stars Emma Stone and Jesse Plemons deliver great performances.

The cinematography was made up of interesting shots and framing that include wide views into the setting. I found that this added context to the characters and their surroundings, giving subliminal clues to their experiences (i.e. socioeconomic status, habits, family) without having to spell everything out.

After a while, the movie gets super violent out of nowhere so proceed with caution. It also feels realistic throughout until the end, which bordered on ridiculous for me. I didn’t necessarily dislike it, but the tone shift wasn’t perfectly executed. I was entertained and the movie was unique, but Bugonia isn’t for everyone.