Exploring the Mind of Teddy in 'Bugonia'
After collaborations with luminaries like Emma Stone and Yorgos Lanthimos in the dark comedy 'Kinds of Kindness', Jesse Plemons was drawn to a compelling lead in the upcoming film 'Bugonia'. As production approached, anticipation mingled with trepidation. Plemons recalls his initial thoughts: “This is one of the best parts I've been asked to play. How in the world am I going to pull this off and do it justice?”
A Tale of Madness and Conviction
Premiering on October 24, 'Bugonia' casts Plemons as Teddy, a disillusioned loner engulfed in a wild conspiracy. He believes pharmaceutical CEO Michelle (played by Stone) is an alien bent on Earth's annihilation. The film traverses the dark landscape of paranoia as Teddy kidnaps Michelle, attempting to extract confessions through a barrage of confrontational strategies.
“I think why I enjoy working with Yorgos so much is that you watch his movies and some of it feels like it's not coming from a conscious brain,” Plemons said. “It's coming from something deep down in a collective psyche.”
The Weight of a Lead Role
This leading role marks a significant shift for Plemons, known for his ensemble prowess in films like 'The Power of the Dog' and 'Killers of the Flower Moon'. His depiction of Teddy intertwines volatility with humanity, offering layers to a man grappling with his flawed convictions. “Even when Teddy is driven to outlandish hostilities, you can sense the bruised and beating heart beneath,” Plemons noted.
A Journey of Psychological Exploration
Plemons also divulged insights gained from reading Naomi Klein's 'Doppelgänger: A Trip Into the Mirror World', a salient text charting the descent into conspiracy theories. His character's extremities resonate with the growing tangents of our sociopolitical landscape, where unconventional narratives gain traction. “Every conspiracy has a little thread of truth,” Plemons explained, emphasizing the grounded fears that can lead to the embrace of such radical beliefs.
In Collaboration with New Talent
Pairing with Aidan Delbis, a remarkably self-assured 19-year-old autistic actor, Plemons expressed pride in Delbis's debut performance, describing him as insightful and precise. “He's very self-possessed and will let you know if something doesn't quite add up,” Plemons shared, highlighting the invaluable learning experience that accompanies working with fresh talent.
The Struggles of Embracing Teddy
Filming chronologically, the emotional weight of Teddy's spiraling descent added layers of complexity. “It's always a blessing shooting in order, but at a certain point, it's just constantly escalating,” Plemons mused, referring to the endurance required to embody such a tortured spirit.
The Bittersweet Nature of Conclusion
Concluding the film brought about a bittersweet epiphany for Plemons. As he wrapped up, surrounded by cast and crew, he felt “like your life goes on hold for this period of time.” Yet, the premiere at the Venice Film Festival served as a catharsis, allowing him to release the attachment to Teddy. “I just needed a little time to sort it all out,” he admitted.
Reflections on Current Cinematic Themes
As an artist engaged in cross-generation dialogues, Plemons highlighted the urgency of reflecting today's complexities in film. “It seems like filmmakers and artists can't deny these strange times,” suggesting that characters like Teddy can illuminate the turbulence of our own realities.
Looking Ahead to New Roles
Plemons also discusses his upcoming role in “The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping,” where he portrays a younger version of Plutarch Heavensbee. Balancing family life with demanding shoots, he expresses enthusiasm. “This is my third revolutionary in a row, which is kind of funny,” he noted, shedding light on the confluence of his artistic journey.
Parting Thoughts
In merging his artistic journey with societal reflections, Jesse Plemons's career trajectory continues to captivate. As he navigates through layered characters that challenge norms and provoke discussions, his contributions reinforce the idea that cinema remains a vital medium for articulating our complex narratives.
Further Reading and Viewing
Source reference: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/10/24/movies/jesse-plemons-bugonia-hunger-games.html
