#REVIEW: “BUGONIA”

Review by Amanda Gilmore for Mr. Will Wong

Bugonia is a wild ride that delivers an inventive commentary on the indelible impact of major corporations and CEOs on the collective. And boy, is it one formidable masterclass in acting.

Director Yorgos Lanthimos is back in traditional form in this Sci-Fi comedy about two conspiracy-obsessed men, Teddy (Jesse Plemons) and Don (Aiden Delbis), who kidnap a CEO of a major company, Michelle (Emma Stone), when they become convinced that she’s an alien who wants to destroy Earth.

It’s hard to write about Bugonia without giving too much of this brilliant story away. But we’ll give it a go!

Bugonia unfolds in two ways: first slowly, then all at once. The first half of the film is a slow-burning, dialogue-driven hostage film. It gives enough character development for the audience to question whether Teddy is a nutter or if Michelle really is an alien. Lanthimos’ devilish mix of surrealist and realistic direction aids in the ambiguity. Fans of the Greek Director know his signature potion of dark humor, and it’s deliciously utilized here.

There’s a shocking event that happens just after the mid-way point that kicks Bugonia further into high-gear. What was once a game of verbal chess between Teddy and Michelle turns into a physical game of cat-and-mouse. All the while, the Film remains equivocal in Teddy’s belief. He becomes more manic while Michelle uses her intellectual superiority to manipulate.

At times, watching Bugonia feels like watching two of the greatest boxers fight each other. Stone and Plemons are at the top of their games, and that’s saying a lot because these two heavyweights have delivered numerous outstanding performances. Plemons can get as wacky as he wants and remain authentic. While Stone’s deadpan delivery and nimble wit allow for audiences to question whose side they’re on.

Like many Lanthimos film endings, Bugonia has one that may leave you scratching your head. Keeping with the theme of ambiguity, the ending is an enigma of sorts. It allows for many interpretations, and it’s sure to make audiences talk long after the final credits roll. No matter how you interpret the ending, Bugonia has something to say about the world we live in today.

Focus Features and Universal Pictures Canada release BUGONIA on Friday, October 24, 2025.