Emma Stone & Jesse Plemons in Bugonia: Alien Plot?

The world of cinema often blurs the lines between fiction and reality, but sometimes, the cast brings their own fascinating quirks into the spotlight. This is precisely what happened with the stars of Yorgos Lanthimos’ latest film, “Bugonia,” Emma Stone and Jesse Plemons, who recently revealed their surprising favorite conspiracy theory: “Birds Aren’t Real.” This playful endorsement adds another layer of intrigue to a film already steeped in themes of abduction and outlandish beliefs.

“Bugonia” and Its Thematic Parallels

Yorgos Lanthimos, known for his distinctive and often surreal cinematic vision in films like “Poor Things” and “The Favourite,” directs “Bugonia.” In this upcoming feature, Emma Stone takes on the role of a powerful CEO who finds herself abducted by two men obsessed with conspiracy theories, portrayed by Jesse Plemons and newcomer Aidan Delbis. The film’s premise, revolving around characters deeply entrenched in their own unique worldviews, naturally opens a dialogue about conspiracy theories beyond the script.

Emma Stone and Jesse Plemons Embrace “Birds Aren’t Real”

During a New York premiere event for “Bugonia,” the topic of real-world conspiracy theories arose, leading to an amusing revelation from the film’s lead actors. When asked about his favorite, Jesse Plemons was quick to declare, “Birds aren’t real. Which is true. It’s not real”. Emma Stone, while expressing her personal belief in birds, acknowledged Plemons’ conviction, humorously pondering the implications in a city like New York. “The birds aren’t real. I mean, I believe birds are real. But it is interesting walking around New York now with so many birds and thinking, ‘What if all of pigeons — right here, right now — were little drones?’” she mused. This lighthearted exchange offers a glimpse into the actors’ camaraderie and their willingness to engage with unusual concepts, much like the characters they portray.

The “Birds Aren’t Real” Movement Explained

The “Birds Aren’t Real” movement is a satirical conspiracy theory that posits that all birds in the United States were replaced by surveillance drones by the U.S. government between 1959 and 2001. Initiated by Peter McIndoe in 2017, the movement began as a viral joke but has since garnered a significant online following, complete with elaborate lore, protests, and merchandise. While clearly satirical, its popularity highlights a broader cultural fascination with conspiracy theories and misinformation in the digital age. The movement’s slogan, “If it flies, it spies,” encapsulates its playful yet critical commentary on government surveillance and the proliferation of outlandish claims.

Other Conspiracy Theories in the Limelight

The “Bugonia” cast’s discussion extended beyond avian anomalies. Comedian Stavros Halkias, who also features in the film, shared his interest in the reptilian conspiracy theory, which suggests that shapeshifting reptilian humanoids secretly control the world. Halkias described it as an “interesting metaphor trying to explain the evil that’s ruining everybody’s life by saying, ‘Oh, there must be a different species.’ It’s like, ‘Nah, they’re just kind of shitty people,’” offering a more analytical perspective on such beliefs.

Yorgos Lanthimos’ Visionary Storytelling

The director at the helm, Yorgos Lanthimos, is renowned for his distinct narrative style and ability to elicit powerful performances from his actors. His creative partnership with Emma Stone has been particularly fruitful, leading to critically acclaimed films and Stone’s second Oscar for “Poor Things.” Lanthimos’s films often explore themes of control, reality, and human behavior through a quirky, R-rated lens. When questioned about expanding into more family-friendly fare, Lanthimos jokingly referenced his 2009 psychological drama “Dogtooth,” a film far from conventional family viewing. His consistent approach to filmmaking reflects a dedication to telling the stories he wants to tell, regardless of genre expectations.

FAQs about “Bugonia” and the “Birds Aren’t Real” Theory

Here are some common questions regarding the film and the conspiracy theory:

• What is “Bugonia” about?
  “Bugonia” is a film directed by Yorgos Lanthimos where Emma Stone plays a CEO abducted by two conspiracy-obsessed men.
• Who are the main stars of “Bugonia”?
  The film stars Emma Stone, Jesse Plemons, and Aidan Delbis.
• What is the “Birds Aren’t Real” conspiracy theory?
  It is a satirical movement claiming that birds were replaced by government surveillance drones.
• Is the “Birds Aren’t Real” theory serious?
  No, it is a satirical movement initiated as a joke to highlight the absurdity of modern conspiracy theories.
• When is “Bugonia” expected to be released?
  “Bugonia” is set to open in select theaters on October 24, before expanding nationwide on October 31.

Conclusion

The intersection of cinematic narratives and real-world fascinations creates compelling discussions, and the “Bugonia” cast’s delve into conspiracy theories like “Birds Aren’t Real” is a perfect example. While the film promises a captivating exploration of belief and abduction, the off-screen revelations from Emma Stone and Jesse Plemons add a humorous and thought-provoking dimension to the discourse surrounding conspiracy culture. As “Bugonia” prepares for its release, it invites audiences to not only engage with its fictional premise but also perhaps to ponder the whimsical, and sometimes profound, nature of the theories that capture our collective imagination.