Poor Things

In Victorian London, an ambitious medical student named Max McCandles begins his medical career under the guidance of the unconventional surgeon Godwin Baxter. Their initial meetings are marked by Max's admiration for Godwin's groundbreaking, yet unorthodox, methods in the clinic.

Max becomes infatuated with Bella, an enchanting young woman living under Godwin’s care. Godwin reveals a shocking secret about her past: Bella was once pregnant but tragically took her own life, leading to her miraculous revival through a controversial medical procedure.

In a moment fueled by emotion and connection, Max proposes to Bella with Godwin's consent. Bella accepts joyfully, marking a pivotal moment in the development of their relationship as she begins to navigate her new life.

As Bella's cognitive abilities progress rapidly, she begins to crave independence and autonomy. This culminates in her running off with Duncan Wedderburn, a lawyer, initiating a tumultuous affair filled with passion and conflict.

Bella and Duncan embark on a wild escapade that takes them to Lisbon, where their relationship blossoms amidst indulgent hedonism. Their escapades come with challenges as Duncan struggles to manage Bella's adventurous spirit.

In a bid for a fresh perspective, Duncan sneaks Bella aboard a cruise ship. There, Bella meets fellow travelers who introduce her to new ideas and philosophies, deepening her understanding of life and herself.

During a stop in Alexandria, Bella witnesses the overwhelming poverty of the locals, which deeply affects her. In a gesture of goodwill, she donates Duncan's gambling winnings but is disheartened to see the money stolen quickly.

After their funds dwindle due to Bella's donation, the couple faces expulsion from the cruise ship at Marseille. This incident signals a downward spiral in their fortunes as they make their way to Paris.

Facing financial ruin, Bella decides to work at a brothel, leading to mounting frustrations for Duncan. Their relationship deteriorates rapidly under the strain, culminating in Duncan's mental breakdown.

At the brothel, Bella forms a close bond with Madame Swiney and fellow prostitute Toinette. Toinette introduces Bella to socialist principles, reshaping her understanding of societal issues and personal empowerment.

Godwin, on his deathbed, calls for Bella to see her one last time. Max, determined to fulfill this wish, tracks down Bella after locating Duncan in a mental institution, setting the stage for a poignant reunion.

As Bella prepares to marry Max, their wedding day is abruptly disrupted by the arrival of Duncan and General Alfie Blessington. Alfie's shocking revelation that he was married to Bella before her disappearance forces her to confront her past.

Bella, now addressing herself as Victoria, ventures to unravel her past only to find herself in a suffocating and abusive relationship with Alfie. The emotional turmoil forces her to reassess her choices and their consequences.

Trapped in Alfie's mansion, Bella is faced with a brutal ultimatum. In an act of fierce defiance, she turns the tables on him, resulting in a chaotic moment that leaves Alfie incapacitated.

In the end, Godwin passes away peacefully with Bella and Max by his side, signifying the close of a tumultuous chapter in their lives. Empowered by all her experiences, Bella decides to honor Godwin's legacy by continuing to advance in his work alongside Max and Toinette.