Language : English
Director : Yorgos Lanthimos
Writers : Yorgos Lanthimos, Efthimis Filippou
Cast : Emma Stone, Jesse Plemons, Willem Dafoe
Genre : Comedy | Drama | Horror
Imdb: Kinds of Kindness (2024)
Streaming on Disney + Hotstar
Disclaimer: Intended for Mature/Adult Audiences Only.
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Kinds of Kindness (2024) is Yorgos Lanthimos’ Provocative Triptych of Control and Cruelty
Yorgos Lanthimos returns to his provocative roots with Kinds of Kindness, a bold and unorthodox narrative that solidifies his unique storytelling style into a triptych of interconnected stories. The film showcases his ability to blur the lines between comedy and horror, maintaining a surreal tone reminiscent of his earlier works.
The film is divided into three segments, each featuring a recurring cast led by Emma Stone, Jesse Plemons, and Willem Dafoe in various roles. The stories explore themes of control, identity, and autonomy, questioning the lengths individuals will go to in order to maintain or regain their agency.
The first chapter, The Death of R.M.F., is a corporate satire where Jesse Plemons portrays Robert, a compliant middle manager under the domineering Raymond (Willem Dafoe).
The second segment, R.M.F. is Flying, delves into psychological distress as it follows Daniel (Jesse Plemons) and his missing wife, who seems to have magically reappeared (played by Emma Stone).
The final section, R.M.F. Eats a Sandwich, is the most far-out of the three, featuring cult members who attain the impossible-to-defy concept of death itself, adding yet another layer of metaphysical strangeness to the plot.
Cinematographer Robbie Ryan delivers a visually striking presentation, using stark, unsettling imagery to heighten the film’s eerie atmosphere. The decision to limit sound effects, opting instead for character-driven auditory experiences, gives the film an authentic, immersive feel. However, some scenes may feel flat due to the minimal sound design.
Jesse Plemons shines throughout, delivering varied performances that anchor the emotional depth and tension of each chapter. His range—shifting from desperation to depravity—offers a compelling study in character immersion. Emma Stone and Willem Dafoe also excel in their roles, adding to the ensemble’s remarkable dynamic.
While Kinds of Kindness boasts an ambitious narrative and stellar performances, it is not without its flaws. The intricate plots and bold depictions of sex and nudity may not resonate with all viewers, and some might find the overarching themes difficult to fully grasp. Nonetheless, the film serves as an experimental exploration of human nature and societal norms, challenging audiences to reflect on the complexities of kindness and control in modern life. It is a testament to Lanthimos’ fearless approach to storytelling.
Kinds of Kindness is a thought-provoking, albeit convoluted, cinematic experience that lingers long after the credits roll. For those willing to embrace its abstract storytelling, it offers a rewarding—though perplexing—glimpse into the human psyche. If you’re a fan of Yorgos Lanthimos’ cinematic genius, this is a must-watch.
Verdict : 6/7 stars
Brilliant.
Trivia
- The purple Dodge Challenger that appears prominently in the film’s third act is owned by filmmaker Dave McCary, the husband of Emma Stone.
- Jerskin Fendrix, the films composer, makes a cameo appearance in the first story as the piano player at the hotel bar.
- The movie had its world premiere at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival, where Jesse Plemons won the Best Actor award.
- Director Yorgos Lanthimos’ longest film to date at 164 minutes (2 hours, 44 minutes)
