Bugonia (2025)

Movie · 2025 · Science Fiction, Thriller, Comedy · 1h 59m · R · English

Curator score: 6.9/10 (2.1M ratings)

Of all the abductions, this one is different.

Overview

Two conspiracy obsessed young men kidnap the high-powered CEO of a major company, convinced that she is an alien intent on destroying planet Earth.

Ratings

Director

Yorgos Lanthimos

Production

Element Pictures, Square Peg, Fremantle, Pith Quest Films, Fruit Tree, CJ ENM

Cast

Emma Stone, Jesse Plemons, Aidan Delbis, Stavros Halkias, Alicia Silverstone, J. Carmen Galindez Barrera, Marc T. Lewis, Vanessa Eng, Cedric Dumornay, Momma Cherri, Fredricka Whitfield, Rafael Lopez Bravo, Yaisa, Teneise Mitchell Ellis, Roger Carvalho, Atsushi Nishijima, Janlyn Bales, Andy Blackburn, Stella Bizirtsaki, Diana Duah

Where to watch

Netflix, Netflix Standard with Ads

Curator Review

Verdict

Bugonia offers a unique blend of dark comedy and science fiction, exploring themes of conspiracy and class struggle. While it showcases Yorgos Lanthimos's distinctive style, its satirical edge may not resonate with everyone.

Best for

  • fans of dark comedy
  • viewers interested in social commentary
  • those who appreciate absurdist storytelling

Skip if

  • you dislike unconventional narratives
  • you're looking for a straightforward plot
  • you prefer light-hearted comedies

Overview

Bugonia is a wild ride through the minds of two conspiracy-obsessed friends who kidnap a CEO they believe is an alien. This premise sets the stage for a darkly comedic exploration of paranoia and social critique, hallmarks of Yorgos Lanthimos's work. The film's absurdity and biting satire on corporate culture and conspiracy theories create a unique viewing experience, though it may not appeal to all audiences. The humor is sharp and often uncomfortable, reflecting the current societal climate and the absurd lengths people go to justify their beliefs.

Worth noting

The performances, particularly from Emma Stone and Jesse Plemons, add depth to the eccentric characters, making their misguided actions both hilarious and thought-provoking. While Bugonia is not for everyone, those who appreciate a blend of dark humor and social commentary will find much to enjoy. It's a film that lingers in the mind, prompting discussions about the nature of truth and the absurdity of modern life.

Top Letterboxd reviews

marty (4.5★) · 40516 likes

what guys do instead of therapy

stavvybaby2 (5★) · 34989 likes

The guy who plays the cop is really sexy

davidehrlich (3★) · 30644 likes

indescribably perfect use of Chappell Roan's "Good Luck, Babe!"

bel (4.5★) · 25281 likes

Teddy and Dons letterboxd top 4: 1) Bee Movie2) Bee Movie3) Bee Movie4) Bee Movie

timtamtitus (4★) · 23751 likes

she’s bald! she’s bald and people with hair torture the bald!

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Topics

science fiction, thriller, comedy, satire, absurdism, social critique, conspiracy, dark comedy, corporate culture, alien

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