I really appreciated this reflection. I, too, thought Poor Things was an extremely well-crafted yet philosophically abysmal film (if coherent, as you also note). I likewise felt conflicted while watching it, and since I typically go into films blind, I wasn't quite prepared for that experience. Subsequent reflection, both in writing and with other people, has helped me process my anger, frankly, over the views it evinced of the most precious and fundamental realities of being a woman, and being human. I'm grateful for the women Letterboxd users, with whom I probably disagree about a host of other issues, who have called out its dehumanizing worldview.
Celina - This is so thoughtful! I think it takes a lot of maturity to engage with ideas that you disagree with, (really) consider them, and come out the other side with conviction in your beliefs. But I think to be a good consumer of film, we have to do it, so I commend you. Something Heather and I have talked about recently is how good films leave room for the audiences to respond. The movie puts forth a thesis, but as you watch it, you can agree, disagree, pick it apart, etc. I like Poor Things because I feel like it does that. I'm glad you enjoyed the piece and were able to grapple with the film - especially in community. Love it!
Also WOW what a movie to go in blind to. You're brave :)
Tory,
I really appreciated this reflection. I, too, thought Poor Things was an extremely well-crafted yet philosophically abysmal film (if coherent, as you also note). I likewise felt conflicted while watching it, and since I typically go into films blind, I wasn't quite prepared for that experience. Subsequent reflection, both in writing and with other people, has helped me process my anger, frankly, over the views it evinced of the most precious and fundamental realities of being a woman, and being human. I'm grateful for the women Letterboxd users, with whom I probably disagree about a host of other issues, who have called out its dehumanizing worldview.
Celina - This is so thoughtful! I think it takes a lot of maturity to engage with ideas that you disagree with, (really) consider them, and come out the other side with conviction in your beliefs. But I think to be a good consumer of film, we have to do it, so I commend you. Something Heather and I have talked about recently is how good films leave room for the audiences to respond. The movie puts forth a thesis, but as you watch it, you can agree, disagree, pick it apart, etc. I like Poor Things because I feel like it does that. I'm glad you enjoyed the piece and were able to grapple with the film - especially in community. Love it!
Also WOW what a movie to go in blind to. You're brave :)