Bugonia Movie: Emma Stone Plays a CEO Who's Supposed to Be an Alien in Yorgos Lanthimos' Black Comedy

Liputan6.com, Jakarta The film world is once again excited by the arrival of Bugonia, a new sci-fi black comedy directed by renowned filmmaker Yorgos Lanthimos.

This film is an English-language adaptation of the 2003 South Korean film Save the Green Planet! by Jang Joon-hwan.

With Lanthimos's signature touch, Bugonia promises a unique and provocative cinematic experience.

The film tells the story of two young men obsessed with conspiracy theories who kidnap the CEO of a large corporation.

They believe the CEO is an alien with evil intentions to destroy Earth.

The film is scheduled for a limited release in the United States on October 24, 2025, before a wider release on October 31, 2025.

New trailer for Yorgos Lanthimos’ ‘BUGONIA’, starring Emma Stone and Jesse PlemonsThe film follows 2 conspiracy-obsessed men who kidnap a major CEO, convinced that she is an alien intent on destroying Earth.In theaters on October 31. pic.twitter.com/HasdLgNGks

— DiscussingFilm (@DiscussingFilm) August 28, 2025

The story of Bugonia centers on two young men, Teddy (Jesse Plemons) and Don (Aidan Delbis), who strongly believe in conspiracy theories.

Their obsession reaches its peak when they kidnap Michelle Fuller (Emma Stone), the CEO of a leading pharmaceutical company.

The reason behind this kidnapping is their suspicion that Michelle is actually an alien plotting to destroy humanity.

It is Lanthimos’s third film in three years, all of which starred Stone.

The Greek director won the Golden Lion at Venice two years ago for his gothic comedy Poor Things. It went on to win four Oscars, including best actress for Stone.

Together with Jesse Plemons and Aidan Delbis, they form a strong on-screen dynamic.

The supporting cast is equally compelling, including Alicia Silverstone as Sandy, Teddy's mother, and Stavros Halkias as Casey, a local police officer.

This film is a co-production between Ireland, South Korea, and the United States, demonstrating cross-national collaboration in creating a cinematic masterpiece.

The film Bugonia made its triumphant debut at the Venice International Film Festival on August 28, 2025.

This premiere marked the beginning of the film's journey on the global festival circuit.

The film's enthusiasm is evident in its screening schedule at various other prestigious festivals, confirming Bugonia's position as one of the most anticipated films.

Following Venice, the film will also screen at the Telluride Film Festival, the Deauville American Film Festival, the Miskolc International Film Festival, the San Sebastián International Film Festival, and the Busan International Film Festival.

Attending these festivals not only raises the film's profile but also provides an opportunity for critics and early audiences to share their thoughts.

For audiences in the United States, Bugonia is scheduled for a limited release on October 24, 2025, before a wide release on October 31, 2025.

Focus Features released the first official trailer on August 28, 2025, providing an early glimpse into the film's tone and style.

Emma Stone in #Bugonia is magnetic, dangerous and utterly unforgettable. Her most physically and emotionally demanding role yet - she owns every scene and is the one and only Lanthimos' muse. The best actress of her generation for a reason. #Venezia2025 #Venezia82 pic.twitter.com/fnJBQPwehC

— Mia Pflüger (@justmiaslife) August 28, 2025

Early reviews for Bugonia described it as a bold and provocative black comedy.

Many critics praised Yorgos Lanthimos for his “mastery” in creating a distinctive and unforgettable atmosphere.

The film successfully blends elements of comedy and drama, while offering a profound character study about conspiracy and the destructive nature of humanity.

However, some critics felt the film felt “vague” at times in its message, though it remained highly entertaining.

Overall, Bugonia was considered a bold and reflective work.

Emma Stone’s performance as Michelle Fuller received particular praise.

Stone delivered a “powerful” and “surprising” performance, with her portrayal described as “controlled” and “layered.”

In a press conference at the Venice Film Festival, Emma Stone even expressed her belief in the existence of aliens, quoting Carl Sagan.

“I don’t know about looking down on us, but one of my favourite people who has ever lived is Carl Sagan and I fell madly in love with his philosophy and science and how brilliant he is,” the Oscar winner said.

“He very deeply believed [that] the idea that we’re alone in this vast expansive universe – not that we’re being watched – is a pretty narcissistic thing. So, yes, I’m coming out and saying it: I believe in aliens.”