Emma Stone’s Performance in ‘Bugonia‘ Draws Parallels to Katharine hepburn’s Trailblazing Career
Yorgos Lanthimos’ latest film, ”Bugonia,” starring Emma Stone, is generating awards buzz and drawing comparisons between Stone’s artistic choices and those of screen legend Katharine Hepburn. The film, a potential contender across multiple categories including acting, directing, and screenplay, showcases Stone’s continued commitment to complex and unconventional roles, echoing Hepburn’s own defiance of Hollywood’s expectations.
stone’s filmography, from the comedic timing of “Easy A” to the vulnerability displayed in “The Favorite” and the surrealism of “Poor Things,” demonstrates a consistent reinvention with each performance.This mirrors Hepburn’s evolution from screwball comedies in the 1930s to dramatic roles in the 1960s-a rare artistic trajectory in hollywood.
Both actresses have consistently chosen characters possessing wit, grit, and ambition, refusing to be confined by conventional ingénue roles. Stone frequently portrays women who are “messy, intelligent, sensual and deeply flawed,” creating magnetic performances that prioritize authenticity over convention, a characteristic shared with Hepburn’s iconic portrayals.
“Bugonia” also marks a striking screen debut for autistic actor Delbis, who plays a pivotal role as Don, a character grappling with loyalty and truth. His performance is described as “raw, honest and…the emotional backbone” of the film, adding a dynamic element alongside Stone and Jesse Plemons.
The film’s sharp social commentary has been likened to Adam McKay’s “Don’t Look Up,” but distinguished by screenwriter Will Tracy‘s approach, which reflects rather than condescends to the audience. While potentially polarizing, industry observers predict “Bugonia” will perform similarly to ”Poor Things,” which received 11 Oscar nominations.
For Focus Features, the success of “Bugonia” presents the challenge of strategically positioning a critically acclaimed film for awards consideration. Frances McDormand has won three Oscars, including awards for acting in “Fargo” (1996) and “Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri” (2017).
