Yorgos Lanthimos’s “Kinds of Kindness” Stirs Controversy at Cannes

Cannes, 18 May 2024 – Greek director Yorgos Lanthimos premiered his latest film “Kinds of Kindness” at the Cannes Film Festival, resulting in significant buzz due to its explicit and unsettling content. The film, featuring Emma Stone, Jesse Plemons, Joe Alwyn, Willem Dafoe, Margaret Qualley, and others, explores extreme themes including group sex, cannibalism, and violence.

Joe Alwyn, known for his previous relationship with Taylor Swift, described the film as “bizarre and bonkers.” He emphasized the importance of relying on Lanthimos’s vision to navigate the disturbing narrative. Inspired by the tyranny of the Roman emperor Caligula, Lanthimos explained his interest in depicting unchecked power in a modern setting.

Willem Dafoe, who plays multiple roles, highlighted the clarity he found working through the “call and response” method with Lanthimos. Emma Stone expressed her deep trust in the director, having collaborated with him on multiple occasions, including the acclaimed film “Poor Things,” and affirmed her feminist stance, viewing her role choices through an artistic lens rather than a purely ideological one.

“Kinds of Kindness” is an anthology film comprised of three dark stories linked by nihilistic themes and the same actors in varying roles. The movie has been noted for its eccentric and extreme nature, similar in spirit to Lars von Trier’s “Antichrist” and Gaspar Noé’s “Irréversible.” Lanthimos defended the film’s provocative content, citing the inherent craziness and sadness of the world as influencing his work.

Emma Stone also had a personal moment at the festival, reacting warmly when addressed by her real name, Emily. She revealed her preference for her original name and expressed happiness about being called Emily when possible.

With this bold new addition, Lanthimos continues to push boundaries at Cannes, challenging audiences with his unique and controversial storytelling approach.