Filmspotting Emma & Yorgos - The Favourite/Poor Things Reviews (Archive)
Nov 12, 2025
Dive into the intriguing dynamics of human nature with a deep analysis of The Favourite’s depravity and survival themes. Explore the complex performance of Olivia Colman as Queen Anne and debate which character showcases the most redeeming qualities. Transitioning to Poor Things, hear lively discussions about its audacious cinematography and Emma Stone's theatrical role. The hosts offer mixed reactions about the film's ambition and overindulgence while celebrating Mark Ruffalo's charismatic supporting performance.
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Lanthimos' Closed Worlds Reveal Human Folly
- Yorgos Lanthimos crafts hermetically sealed worlds with unique language and protocols that expose human folly.
- The Favourite uses that approach to blend decorum and debauchery into a bleak, darkly comic costume drama.
Queen Anne's Power And Pathos
- Olivia Colman's Queen Anne mixes monstrous power with deep pathos, making her both terrifying and sympathetic.
- Her pain and vulnerability complicate the film's moral judgment of all three principal characters.
Survival Reframes Abigail's Scheming
- Abigail's final line 'I'm safe now' reframes her manipulations as survival rather than pure ambition.
- Understanding her vulnerability complicates judging her as simply the least redeemable character.
