I am still trying to understand why filmmaker Yorgos Lathimos came up with the title Kinds of Kindness because I cannot see any form of genuine kindness in the vignettes of his latest cinematic offering. That is not to say that I did not enjoy this movie. However, I acknowledge that this film will appeal only to some. Lanthimos’s new movie is guaranteed to have its fans and detractors, but it is still a fascinating and bizarre piece of cinema.
Kinds of Kindness has multiple stories in the vein of Pulp Fiction but with only one connective element. As expected from the filmmaker, this latest entry from Lathimos reveals some off-beat and absurd stories that feature multiple characters in need and desiring to better themselves despite the construct’s weaknesses and limitations.
One story presents the experiences of an earnest man named Robert Fletcher (Jessie Plemons), who is involved in what seems to be a BDSM relationship with his boss, Raymond (Willem Dafoe). When a particular demand by Raymond makes Robert question the nature of their relationship, he soon discovers the repercussions of his refusals. In the following story, a police officer named Daniel (Plemmons) anxiously awaits the return of his wife, Liz (Emma Stone), after she goes missing during a work expedition. In the final vignette, Emily (Stone) and Andrew (Plemmons) are members of a cult in search of their messiah, and this journey challenges them in ways they never expected.
This movie is absolutely strange and incredible, but I actually expected this from Yorgos Lathimos and relished it. I love it when filmmakers challenge conventions, take major swings, and do so in exciting and bold ways where other filmmakers fear to tread. This is an awe-inspiring movie that features characters struggling with their personal problems and pursuing solutions to such problems in unconventional ways.
This film left me bewildered at first but stayed with me, filling me with thoughts and emotions. When it finally connected with me, I totally understood what Yorgos Lathimos was trying to convey. Once I came to this realization, I was actually blown away. I cannot say that everyone will connect with these characters’ weird behavior and activities, but this is one of the more exciting films I have watched this year.
Despite the limited cast, Kinds of Kindness is a showcase of exceptional performances. Both Emma Stone and Jessie Plemmons deliver outstanding portrayals in their diverse roles, with Plemmons particularly standing out and deserving of recognition for his versatile performances.
Like most of Lathimos’ work, Kinds of Kindness may not resonate with everyone. However, this latest offering solidifies his position as one of the most daring and innovative filmmakers in the industry today.