“Bugonia” trailer
The trailer for “Bugonia,” directed by Yorgos Lanthimos and featuring Emma Stone alongside Jesse Plemons, has been released. The film will be available in select theaters beginning October 24th, with a nationwide release set for October 31st.
Conspiracy theories have evolved into something rather serious for a lot of individuals. Many dive deep into the online maze, forging their own version of reality, which often clashes with the facts. For those who believe in these theories, the information they consume only bolsters their pre-existing views, becoming a part of who they are.
“Bugonia” serves as a reflection of these current times.
Lanthimos’ latest project is an English-language adaptation of the 2003 Korean film “Save the Green Planet.” It tells the story of Teddy Gatz (Jesse Plemons), a paranoid beekeeper and baggage screener for a pharmaceutical company called Oaksolis. Teddy believes that the company’s CEO, Michelle Fuller (Emma Stone), is actually an alien intent on wreaking havoc on Earth, which drives him to plot her abduction.
Fuller is portrayed as an Elizabeth Holmes-like character, robotic in her interactions with her employees. She wears the same white blouse and black jacket from her magazine covers and is fixated on health.
Teddy considers himself a leader of sorts—the “Human Resistance.” His cousin, Don (Aidan Delvis), plays the role of a reluctant sidekick, voicing concerns about getting caught. Yet Teddy reassures him, claiming, “There’s no one on earth who doesn’t care about us.”
In a somewhat absurd turn, Teddy and Don don a comical Jennifer Aniston mask to carry out their mission, but things take a darker turn when they abduct Fleur from her home, a scene that briefly showcases her fighting back. They take her to their hidden location, where Teddy orders Don to shave Fleur’s hair—a move that’s meant to hinder her ability to communicate with her alien relatives.
While Fleur is held captive, Teddy and Don, who typically look rough around the edges, clean up for a meeting with a prominent alien official. In an unexpected twist, Teddy accuses Fuller of the extermination of his family, coworkers, and even bees.
With a cool demeanor, Fuller replies, “I’m inquiring where you’re from, and I respectfully disagree.” She implies her abduction is much worse than the governor’s actions, cautioning Teddy that law enforcement will be on their trail soon.
The dynamic between Teddy and Don paints an intriguing picture. Teddy embodies a sort of protective figure for Don (who is autistic in the storyline). He convinces Don that executing the plan will make him heroic, but Don serves as the voice of reason, expressing doubts about Teddy’s warped worldview.
“Bugonia” is notable for being Stone’s fourth collaboration with Lanthimos. She picked up her second Oscar in 2023 for “Poor Things” and shines once more as Michelle Fuller, an adept executive who cleverly shifts strategies to navigate her perilous situation.
It’s important to note that while Stone is a standout, the film largely belongs to her co-stars. Jesse Plemons, recognized for his past work—including his memorable role in “Breaking Bad”—delivers a gripping performance as a deeply troubled individual striving for what he believes is a noble cause.
Lanthimos has emerged as a favorite of mine among contemporary filmmakers; his distinctive approach to storytelling—weaving together the bizarre, dark, and richly humorous—is evident in works like “The Lobster” and “The Favourite.” His films are refreshing, truly paving their own way in cinema.
With cinematography by Robbie Ryan, a two-time Oscar nominee, and a sharp script by Will Treacy, the visual storytelling is impressive. The score by Jerskin Fendrix also surprises, hitting hard when you least expect it.
Verdict:
“Bugonia” is a darkly humorous satire that encapsulates the obsession with conspiracy theories in today’s culture. It’s gritty and tense, and while it may not be Lanthimos’ crowning achievement, it stands as another strong piece in his portfolio, highlighting his innovative direction.
★★★ 1/2 — Watch now
“Bugonia” is rated R for violence, including graphic scenes and language, with a runtime of 1 hour and 58 minutes. It releases nationwide on October 31, 2025.
