Acclaimed director Yorgos Lanthimos is set to captivate audiences once again with his upcoming film, “Bugonia,” scheduled for release on November 7, 2025. This science fiction comedy is an English-language remake of the 2003 South Korean cult classic “Save the Green Planet!” and boasts a stellar cast, including Emma Stone, Jesse Plemons, and Alicia Silverstone.
Plot Overview
“Bugonia” follows the story of two conspiracy-obsessed individuals who kidnap Michelle, a high-powered CEO of a major pharmaceutical company, convinced that she is an alien intent on destroying Earth. As the narrative unfolds, the film delves into themes of paranoia, the blurred lines between reality and delusion, and the lengths to which individuals will go to uncover “truths” they believe are hidden from society.
Stellar Cast and Crew
The film features an impressive ensemble:
- Emma Stone as Michelle: Stone portrays the enigmatic CEO at the center of the protagonists’ suspicions. This role marks her fourth collaboration with Lanthimos, following acclaimed performances in “The Favourite,” “Poor Things,” and “Kinds of Kindness.”
- Jesse Plemons as Teddy: Plemons takes on the role of a conspiracist beekeeper who, alongside his accomplice, becomes entangled in a plot that challenges his perceptions of reality.
- Alicia Silverstone as Teddy’s Mother: Silverstone joins the cast as the protagonist’s mother, adding depth to the character dynamics within the story.
Behind the camera, Lanthimos directs from a screenplay by Will Tracy. The production is a collaboration between Square Peg, CJ ENM, Fruit Tree, and Element Pictures, with notable producers including Ari Aster, Lars Knudsen, Emma Stone, Ed Guiney, Andrew Lowe, and Jerry Kyoungboum Ko.
Production Insights
The development of “Bugonia” began in 2020, with Will Tracy adapting the screenplay and Jang Joon-hwan, the original director of “Save the Green Planet!”, initially attached to helm the project. Ari Aster joined as a producer and played a pivotal role in the decision to gender-swap the central character from male to female. In February 2024, Yorgos Lanthimos took over as director, bringing his unique vision to the remake. Principal photography commenced in July 2024 in High Wycombe, England, signaling the start of an ambitious production schedule.
Budget and Production Quality
While specific budget details have not been publicly disclosed, the involvement of high-profile talent and multiple production companies suggests a significant investment in the film’s production quality. Audiences can anticipate Lanthimos’s signature blend of meticulous storytelling, striking visuals, and thought-provoking themes.
Anticipation and Release
Distributed by Focus Features in the United States, CJ ENM in South Korea, and Universal Pictures internationally, “Bugonia” is slated for a theatrical release on November 7, 2025. The film has already garnered significant attention due to its intriguing premise, esteemed cast, and the reputation of its director. As the release date approaches, anticipation continues to build among fans of Lanthimos’s previous work and enthusiasts of innovative cinema.
Conclusion
“Bugonia” promises to be a compelling addition to Yorgos Lanthimos’s filmography, offering a fresh take on a beloved South Korean narrative. With its blend of dark humor, science fiction elements, and a stellar cast, the film is poised to captivate audiences and spark discussions upon its release. As November 2025 approaches, cinephiles eagerly await the opportunity to experience this unique cinematic journey.
