Synopsis:
“Kinds of Kindness” is a thought-provoking anthology film that explores the complexities of human behavior through three interconnected stories, each featuring the same ensemble cast in different roles. The film delves into themes of control, identity, and the darker aspects of kindness.
Cast:
- Emma Stone as Rita / Liz / Emily
- Jesse Plemons as Robert / Daniel / Andrew
- Willem Dafoe as Raymond / George / Omi
- Margaret Qualley as Vivian / Martha / Ruth / Rebecca
- Hong Chau as Sarah / Sharon / Aka
- Mamoudou Athie as Will / Neil / Morgue Nurse
- Joe Alwyn as Collectibles Appraise Man 1 / Jerry / Joseph
Crew:
- Director: Yorgos Lanthimos
- Screenwriters: Yorgos Lanthimos, Efthimis Filippou
Release Date: June 21, 2024
Running Time: 164 minutes
Motion Picture Rating (MPA): R
Distributor: Searchlight Pictures
Story Summary:
“Kinds of Kindness” presents three distinct yet thematically linked narratives. The first story, “The Death of R.M.F.,” follows Robert Fletcher (Jesse Plemons), a corporate employee whose life is meticulously controlled by his boss. The second tale, “R.M.F. is Flying,” features Plemons as Daniel, a cop whose wife mysteriously disappears and returns changed. The final segment explores a peculiar cult searching for a young woman with supernatural abilities.
Review:
Yorgos Lanthimos’ “Kinds of Kindness” marks a return to the director’s more surreal and provocative roots, reminiscent of his earlier works like “The Lobster” and “Dogtooth.” This anthology film showcases Lanthimos’ signature blend of dark humor and unsettling scenarios, creating a cinematic experience that is both captivating and disquieting. The film’s structure as a triptych allows Lanthimos to explore various facets of human nature, particularly focusing on themes of control, identity, and the often blurred lines between kindness and cruelty. Each segment presents its own unique narrative, yet they are subtly interconnected, rewarding attentive viewers with thematic echoes and visual motifs that resonate across the stories.
Jesse Plemons delivers a tour de force performance, inhabiting multiple roles with remarkable versatility. His ability to shift between characters showcases his range as an actor and serves as a binding element across the film’s disparate parts. Emma Stone, fresh from her Oscar-winning turn in Lanthimos’ “Poor Things,” once again demonstrates her chameleonic abilities, further cementing her status as one of the director’s most trusted collaborators.
The film’s visual style is characteristically Lanthimosian, with carefully composed shots that often juxtapose beauty with unease. The director’s knack for creating off-kilter worlds is on full display, with each segment feeling both familiar and alien simultaneously. This visual approach complements the narrative’s exploration of the uncanny aspects of human behavior. However, “Kinds of Kindness” is not without its challenges. At nearly three hours long, the film demands significant investment from its audience. Some viewers may find the pacing uneven, particularly as they navigate the transitions between stories.
Additionally, the film’s more provocative elements and abstract narrative structure may alienate those expecting a more conventional cinematic experience. Despite these potential hurdles, “Kinds of Kindness” remains a testament to Lanthimos’ unique vision and his willingness to push boundaries. The film’s exploration of control and the various manifestations of kindness – some benevolent, others deeply unsettling – provides ample material for post-viewing discussions and analysis. While it may not reach the heights of Lanthimos’ more accessible recent works like “The Favourite” or “Poor Things,” “Kinds of Kindness” stands as a bold and uncompromising addition to the director’s filmography. It’s a work that demands engagement and interpretation from its audience, rewarding those willing to grapple with its complex themes and unconventional structure.
Critical Response:
Critical reception for “Kinds of Kindness” has been mixed to positive. Many critics praise Lanthimos’ audacious storytelling and the cast’s committed performances, particularly singling out Jesse Plemons and Emma Stone. However, some reviewers note that the film’s abstract nature and challenging content may limit its appeal to a broader audience.
Three Life Lessons:
- Appearances can be deceiving; kindness may sometimes mask ulterior motives.
- The pursuit of control often leads to unexpected consequences.
- Identity is fluid and can be shaped by our experiences and relationships.
Conclusion:
“Kinds of Kindness” is a challenging yet rewarding cinematic experience that showcases Yorgos Lanthimos’ unique vision. While it may not be for everyone, those who appreciate provocative and thought-provoking cinema will find much to dissect and discuss in this ambitious anthology film.
Where to Stream:
As of July 2024, “Kinds of Kindness” is currently available in theaters only (07-05-2024). It will be streamed later when available.
Comment Prompt:
Which of the three stories in “Kinds of Kindness” resonated most with you, and why? How do you think the film’s exploration of kindness reflects or challenges our societal understanding of the concept?