Poor Things

Poor Things

Year: 2023

Runtime: 2 h 21 m

Language: English

Director: Yorgos Lanthimos

ComedyDramaRomanceSci-Fi

When brilliant scientist Dr. Godwin Baxter revives Emma Stone's Bella, she's reborn into a world of wonder. Under his guidance, Bella craves knowledge, but her thirst for life leads her to reckless lawyer Duncan Wedderburn (Mark Ruffalo) in a whirlwind escapade that blends romance, science fiction, and high-stakes adventure.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Poor Things (2023)
Explore the full timeline and setting of Poor Things (2023). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

Victorian Era

The movie is set during the Victorian Era, a time characterized by rapid industrialization, strict social norms, and significant class disparities. This period saw the dawn of modern medicine, which plays a crucial role in Bella's resurrection and subsequent journey. The contrasting themes of enlightenment and oppression define the characters' experiences and societal struggles.

Location

Victorian London, Lisbon, Alexandria, Marseille, Paris

The film traverses various locales starting from the ominous streets of Victorian London, a period defined by both industrial progress and stark social inequalities. Bella and Duncan escape to Lisbon, embracing the city's vibrant culture and allure, before facing hardship in Alexandria and eventually finding themselves in the romantic yet grim settings of Marseille and Paris. Each location adds depth to Bella's journey of self-discovery and independence.

🏙️ City 🌊 Coastal 🌍 Global

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 18:57

Main Characters – Poor Things (2023)
Meet the key characters of Poor Things (2023), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Bella Baxter (Emma Stone)

Bella is a vibrant yet childlike woman who is resurrected through an unconventional medical procedure. Her journey from innocence to independence is marked by her evolving intelligence and desire for self-discovery. Bella embodies resilience as she confronts her past and challenges societal norms.

👩‍⚕️ Prodigy 🌹 Innocence 🦋 Transformation

Duncan Wedderburn (Mark Ruffalo)

Duncan is a lawyer whose initially passionate relationship with Bella devolves into frustration and manipulation. His struggle to cope with Bella’s awakening intellect leads to his mental unraveling. Duncan represents the entrapment within societal expectations and the conflict between desire and control.

💼 Ambition 😞 Melancholy ⚡ Turmoil

Godwin Baxter (Willem Dafoe)

Godwin, the unconventional surgeon, serves as both creator and mentor to Bella. His audacious methods challenge ethical boundaries in medicine, reflecting the complexities of his character. He embodies a mix of paternal care and scientific ambition, which ultimately shapes Bella’s new existence.

🔬 Innovator 📚 Mentor 🧑‍⚕️ Visionary

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 18:57

Major Themes – Poor Things (2023)
Explore the central themes of Poor Things (2023), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🧠 Identity

The theme of identity is central to Bella's story as she grapples with her rebirth and the loss of her past. Throughout the film, she attempts to forge a new sense of self while navigating societal expectations and relationships. Her journey reflects a quest for autonomy and a deeper understanding of her true character beyond her tragic origins.

💔 Love and Betrayal

The intricate web of love and betrayal permeates Bella's relationships, especially with Duncan and her past connection to Alfie. Her initial infatuation changes as she seeks independence, leading to emotional turmoil. The film explores how love can both uplift and ensnare, ultimately shaping Bella's choices and sense of freedom.

🔬 Science and Ethics

The fusion of science and ethics is prevalent as Godwin defies conventional practices to resurrect Bella. This theme raises questions about the morality of scientific experimentation and the nature of humanity. Bella's journey prompts a discussion on the implications of playing God and the responsibilities that come with such power.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 18:57

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