IndieWire's Filmmaker Toolkit 'Bugonia' Director Yorgos Lanthimos
Nov 3, 2025
Yorgos Lanthimos, the acclaimed director known for his unique storytelling in films like 'The Favourite' and 'Dogtooth', dives into his latest work, 'Bugonia'. He shares how a script from Ari Aster caught his attention and explains the political undertones of the film. Yorgos discusses maintaining visceral tension in a confined setting, the decision to cast a non-professional neurodivergent actor, and the impactful choice of a Green Day song for a pivotal scene. His insights into collaboration with Emma Stone and his editor reveal the intricacies of his creative process.
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Rare Instant Connection To A Script
- Lanthimos immediately connected to Will Tracy's script and only made small tweaks to match his sensibility.
- He viewed the screenplay as unusually complete and dove in without long development.
A More Literal Political Film
- Lanthimos calls this film more directly political because it references politics and contemporary issues.
- He notes the original 2003 premise already felt relevant and grew even more so with time.
Film Designed To Burst Bubbles
- Lanthimos frames the film as intentionally bursting audience bubbles and shifting perceptions scene by scene.
- He links that effect to today's tech-driven echo chambers and shrinking perspectives.