Yorgos Lanthimos is one of the most successful and controversial directors in recent years. He has made many great, though polarizing, films such as The Lobster, Killing of a Sacred Deer, and Poor Things. His most recent work, Kinds of Kindness, is arguably his most controversial yet, as it is one of his most inaccessible films and among his lower-rated ones. I personally feel the film is genius in how it essentially trolls the audience through its narrative and structure.
Kinds of Kindness tells three separate stories, all featuring the same actors: Jesse Plemons, Emma Stone, Willem Dafoe, Hong Chau, Mamoudou Athie, Margaret Qualley, Joe Alwyn, and Yorgos Stefanakos. Several other actors appear in smaller roles, typically limited to one story. Each actor plays a different role in every story, with the exception of Stefanakos, who consistently portrays the character R.M.F.
Each story is expertly directed and crafted. They all look visually stunning, are performed with incredible skill, and offer unique, dense narratives filled with multiple themes and interpretations. Despite their distinct plots, the stories share subtle similarities. They all center around toxic relationships, include the character R.M.F., feature animals, and involve dream sequences or visions. The dialogue and overall writing style also remain consistent across all three stories.
One of the film’s standout aspects is its intentionally disorienting presentation. The dialogue is stiff but becomes more expressive at random moments. The score consists of seemingly random, loud piano notes, often lacking rhythm.
The editing employs hard cuts, creating a jarring effect where scenes feel abrupt and unexpected. This off-putting style feels deliberate, contributing to a sense of unease. Paradoxically, the film’s commitment to this “trolling” approach makes it oddly satisfying and even fun for viewers willing to embrace the chaos.
Narratively, the film leans into absurdity. The stories are filled with bizarre moments and quirky, awkward dialogue. Lanthimos’s signature style of dialogue reaches new levels of strangeness here.
The film features many odd yet humorous lines and conversations, fostering a blend of comedy and discomfort. The endings are ambiguous and conflicting, prompting reflection on whether they should be seen as happy, given their implications.
While the film aims to confuse and challenge its audience, it does so with purpose. Each story delves into the complexities of the human mind and the toxic nature of relationships. The symbolism is rich, offering much to unpack, while still maintaining entertainment value. The performances are stellar, particularly Jesse Plemons, who delivers some of his best work, especially in the first two stories. Visually, the film is striking, with exceptional lighting, framing, and use of color.
Overall, Kinds of Kindness is a strange and unconventional film, but one I thoroughly enjoyed. It achieves exactly what it sets out to do: confuse, challenge, and engage its audience. It is also hilarious, thought-provoking, and memorable. Lanthimos continues his impressive run, and I’m eagerly anticipating his next film, Bugonia, set to release on November 7th next year.
Reportedly a remake of the 2003 South Korean sci-fi comedy Save the Green Planet by Jang Joon-hwan, it promises to be another unique entry in his filmography. Lanthimos remains a singular and talented voice in contemporary cinema, and Kinds of Kindness further solidifies his status as a visionary filmmaker.
Chaitanya Tuteja is someone who enjoys sharing his thoughts on books, movies, and shows. Based in India, he appreciates exploring different stories and offering honest reflections. When not reflecting on his favorite media, Chaitanya enjoys discovering new ideas and embracing life’s simple moments.