Yorgos Lanthimos and Emma Stone’s ‘Bugonia’ Hits Home Media Soon

The anticipated sci-fi comedy Bugonia, directed by Yorgos Lanthimos and starring Emma Stone, is set to be released on digital platforms and physical media sooner than expected. Following a modest box office performance of $32 million, the film will be available for rent or purchase on demand starting November 25, 2023. Physical formats, including 4K, Blu-ray, and DVD, will be released a month later on December 23, 2023.

Based on the 2003 South Korean film Save the Green Planet!, Bugonia explores the bizarre tale of two cousins who, convinced that a powerful CEO is part of an alien conspiracy, abduct her in hopes of negotiating humanity’s safety. The film’s script was penned by Will Tracy, known for his work on The Menu, and it is distinguished by its blend of dark humor and thrilling twists.

The cast features Jesse Plemons as the leader of the cousins, Teddy, alongside newcomer Aidan Delbis, who plays his cousin, Don. The supporting cast includes notable names such as Alicia Silverstone, Stavros Halkias, and Vanessa Eng. Critics have praised the performances, with Collider reviewer Ross Bonaime giving the film an 8/10 rating. He described the dynamic between Stone and Plemons as “two performances of the year,” while acknowledging Delbis as “an essential addition” to the narrative.

Despite its underwhelming box office reception, Bugonia has garnered significant acclaim, achieving an impressive 87% rating from critics and an 84% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes. For those who opt for the home release, a behind-the-scenes featurette titled “The Birth of the Bees: The Making of Bugonia” will provide insights into the creative process behind the film.

Future Projects for Lanthimos and Stone

Following their successful collaborations, including Poor Things and Kinds of Kindness, both Lanthimos and Stone appear to be taking a brief hiatus. In an interview earlier this year, Lanthimos expressed a desire to step back after the intense production schedules of their recent projects. Stone, while currently without publicly announced roles, is actively producing.

In April, it was reported that she is attached to Jesse Eisenberg’s upcoming musical comedy through her production company, Fruit Tree, in collaboration with A24 and Topic Studios. Eisenberg’s film will follow his previous Oscar-winning project, A Real Pain, and is expected to feature a star-studded cast, including Julianne Moore and Paul Giamatti. Although production began in April, specific release details remain unconfirmed.

As Bugonia prepares to enter the home media market, its unique blend of humor and suspense may find a more appreciative audience outside the confines of the theater. Fans of Lanthimos and Stone can look forward to enjoying this unconventional film from the comfort of their homes.