In Emma Stone's latest cinematic venture, "Bugonia," she portrays an influential CEO of a prominent corporation who finds herself abducted by two unorthodox conspiracy theorists convinced of her extraterrestrial origins, with malevolent intentions towards planet Earth. Understandably, at today's press conference for the film at the Venice Film Festival, a journalist couldn't resist inquiring whether the film's creative minds shared a belief in celestial beings observing humanity.
Stone, with a touch of humor, replied, "As for looking down on us, I'm not so sure," before diving into her personal philosophy, which has been deeply influenced by the late, esteemed scientist-philosopher Carl Sagan. "I binge-watched his series, 'Cosmos,' and fell head-over-heels for his philosophy, his science, and his brilliant mind. The notion that we are solitary inhabitants in this vast cosmic expanse—not just unwatched but utterly alone—strikes me as an incredibly narcissistic perspective." She then playfully continued, "Yes, I'm coming clean. I'm an alien believer. Thank you."
The double Academy Award-winner was joined by her frequent collaborator and dear friend Yorgos Lanthimos, screenwriter Will Tracy, actor Jesse Plemons, and composer Jerskin Fendrix at the Palazzo del Casinò on the Lido for their first official Venice Film Festival event, preceding tonight's world premiere. Stone fielded questions on a multitude of topics, ranging from her experience shaving her head for the role ("It was so much easier than any other hairstyle!"), her approach to fame and success, and her enduring partnership with Lanthimos on such challenging projects.
"The chance to collaborate on these endeavors with him and everyone here has been nothing short of a dream," she enthused. "This film, in particular, encapsulates so much of what's happening in our world today, and it's narrated in a manner that I found incredibly captivating, moving, hilarious, disturbing, and vibrant."
Also starring Stavros Halkias and Alicia Silverstone, "Bugonia" is set to hit theaters in October. Released by Focus Features, the film is one of the most anticipated titles at the Venice Film Festival, marking Lanthimos' triumphant return after claiming the Golden Lion for "Poor Things" in 2023, which went on to win four Oscars, including a second Best Actress prize for Stone.
"Bugonia" follows their recent collaboration, "Kinds of Kindness," which premiered at Cannes and polarized critics and audiences. The 82nd edition of the Venice Film Festival runs from August 27 to September 6.
