Certainly, Emma Stone showcases her singing and dancing talents in the absurdist film "Poor Things." In this whimsical production, she delights audiences as she playfully bangs utensils on a dinner table, enthusiastically devours tarts, and discovers passionate encounters in a French bordello.
This whimsical and bold dark comedy offers a feminist reinterpretation of Mary Shelley's "Frankenstein," delving into themes of women's liberation, sexual discovery, and growing empathy. With a blend of whimsy, grand adventure, and elements of mad science, it presents a unique take on the classic tale.
Godwin Baxter, a Scottish surgeon with a disfigured appearance portrayed by Willem Dafoe, enlists his student Max, played by Ramy Youssef, to meticulously document the evolution of his recent experiment. Referred to as "God" by those familiar with the doctor, he has successfully reanimated a woman named Bella Baxter, portrayed by Stone, imbuing her with the mind of an infant.
Bella's cognitive development requires a period for synchronization with her physical form. Consequently, when Max encounters her, Bella moves with a toddler's waddle and utters "ba" instead of "bye." Additionally, God allows Bella to engage in unconventional play, where she enthusiastically uses a scalpel on eye sockets, gleefully exclaiming "Squish!"
Persuading Max, the scientist proposes that he marries Bella, under the condition that they reside in God's extravagant estate, sharing space with hybrid creatures like chicken dogs and rooster pigs, all within the confines of legal agreements.
The biggest hoot in “Poor Things” is witnessing the modern-thinking Bella as a filter-free force of nature in such a patriarchal period
Stone's ability to reach that emotional place, after starting off in an infantile state, is phenomenal (and puts her in the pole position for another best actress Academy Award).
The loss of Bella’s virginity is a turning point – the movie even transitions from black-and-white to vivid color in the middle of some thrusting – yet with both physicality and line delivery, Stone evolves this refreshing character with every new experience.