Bugonia is a highly anticipated science fiction black comedy movie directed by Yorgos Lanthimos and starring Emma Stone and Jesse Plemons. Marking their latest collaboration, the film reimagines the cult 2003 Korean thriller Save the Green Planet! and thrusts its eccentric characters into an absurd, suspenseful, and thought-provoking battle against paranoia and conspiracy.
What is the movie ‘Bugonia’ about?: Plot Details
The story of Bugonia centers on two conspiracy-obsessed men, Teddy (Jesse Plemons), a docile yet tormented beekeeper, and his timid cousin Don (Aidan Delbis). Convinced that Michelle Fuller (Emma Stone), the assertive CEO of a pharmaceutical giant, is an alien sent to destroy the planet, the two kidnap her in a desperate, misguided bid to “save humanity.” With Michelle held captive in their isolated cabin, delusions and reality collide—creating an engrossing journey fueled by suspicion, dark comedy, and the existential anxieties of modern life. The narrative cleverly blurs the line between victim and villain, all while examining societal fears about powerful corporations, ecological collapse, and the perilous allure of conspiracy theories.
Cast
-
Emma Stone as Michelle Fuller, the enigmatic CEO
-
Jesse Plemons as Teddy, a conspiracy-driven beekeeper
-
Aidan Delbis as Don, Teddy’s cousin and accomplice
-
Stavros Halkias as a supporting conspiracist
-
Alicia Silverstone as a key supporting character
The film also features a range of cameos and supporting roles, with the cast bringing together both regular collaborators of Lanthimos and new faces poised for breakout performances.
Production
Bugonia is an English-language remake of Save the Green Planet! and marks the fifth collaboration between director Yorgos Lanthimos and actress Emma Stone. The screenplay is penned by Will Tracy (The Menu), with producers including Ed Guiney, Andrew Lowe, Ari Aster, Emma Stone herself, and Jerry Kyoungboum Ko. Principal photography began in July 2024 across England and Greece, with standout cinematography from Robbie Ryan using 35mm VistaVision. The film’s production uniquely bridges input from both American and South Korean companies, setting it apart as a truly international venture. Notably, its filming climax shifted from the Acropolis in Athens to Sarakiniko Beach on Milos island after a location permit was denied.
Release Date:
Bugonia will have its world premiere at the Venice Film Festival on August 28, 2025. It then opens in U.S. theaters with a limited release on October 24, 2025, followed by a nationwide release on October 31, 2025.
Trailer:
The official trailer reveals the film’s offbeat energy and constant sense of unease—juxtaposing surreal comedy with growing tension as the captors attempt to force a confession from their alleged extraterrestrial. The preview showcases Emma Stone’s intense performance and Jesse Plemons’ unhinged charisma, all set to a haunting soundtrack. The trailer can be viewed on Focus Features’ official channels.
Where to Watch?
Bugonia is distributed by Focus Features (outside South Korea) and Universal Pictures, with a strong likelihood of streaming availability after its theatrical run. Details on VOD or streaming platforms are expected closer to or after its U.S. release.
