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Plot Overview and Dystopian Setting
Based on Scott Westerfeld’s popular young adult book series, “Uglies” presents a satirical solution to global conflict: mandatory plastic surgery at age 16 to make everyone pretty, thus eliminating inequality. In this dystopian society, “pretty” follows a specific template resembling an uncanny valley of Instagram faces with shimmering eyes and plump cheeks. The story follows teenager Tally Youngblood (Joey King) as she eagerly awaits her transformation, initially believing that “becoming moldy and crinkly goes against everything we’ve been taught!”
Themes of Beauty and Social Commentary
At its core, “Uglies” revolves around conventional notions of beauty and the prejudice of lookism. The film, directed by McG (“Charlie’s Angels,” “Terminator Salvation”), creates a world where everyone is considered an “Ugly” until their 16th birthday when they undergo extreme cosmetic enhancement to become a carefree “Pretty.” This premise serves as a reverse version of the classic “Twilight Zone” episode “The Eye of the Beholder.”
The story aims to highlight how society’s fixation on appearance and impossible beauty standards can lead teens to believe they are inadequate as they are. Interestingly, the pre-surgery characters appear more appealing than the post-op “Pretties,” who resemble creepy A.I. beings dipped in Instagram filters.
Casting and Performances
Netflix favorite Joey King (“The Kissing Booth” films) plays the lead role of Tally with conviction, alongside Keith Powers and Chase Stokes as her love interests. Brianne Tju shines as the spunky Shay, who introduces Tally to “The Rusties”—rebels who escaped the mandatory surgery and embrace individuality. Laverne Cox delivers an imperious performance as Dr. Cable, the leader of the “Pretties.”
While the dialogue often feels clunky, the cast delivers solid performances that elevate the material. King’s Tally serves as a relatable entry point for viewers, while Tju’s Shay becomes the heart of the film’s message about self-acceptance.
Visual Aesthetics and Digital World To appeal to a new generation of viewers, McG has crafted a fantastical digital landscape that glows with neon lights and constant fireworks. The “Uglies” inhabit a dark, gray world in stark contrast to the “Pretties” living in a Vegas-like version of Barbie Land. However, the extensive use of VFX can sometimes feel artificial and over-the-top, detracting from the story’s sincerity.
SIMILAR POSTS
The “pretty” transformation process, achieved through a combination of practical effects like silicone prosthetics and CGI, effectively illustrates the film’s critique of unrealistic beauty standards. Actress Brianne Tju described the experience to People’s Magazine of her character’s makeover as “jarring,” saying, “I basically had a completely different body… I wasn’t comfortable in that outfit. And I just love the prior version of Shay so much better.”
Cultural and Societal Relevance “Uglies” serves as a timely commentary on modern society’s obsession with social media, filters, and cosmetic procedures. The film draws parallels to real-world pressures faced by teens and young adults who feel compelled to alter their appearances to fit in. As Tju notes, “This movie is a great reminder to be critical of these things that we do automatically or feel obligated to do. Whether that be following trends in terms of beauty standards or using filters and Facetune on our Instagrams.”
The story also touches on themes of body autonomy and self-worth, particularly relevant in light of recent events like the overturning of Roe v. Wade in the United States. Tju emphasizes the importance of this message, stating, “We’re sometimes seen as objects that are malleable and can be changed, but it’s in our individuality and it’s in our own self-love that we have the power.”
Critical Reception and Audience Feedback “Uglies” has received mixed reviews from critics, with praise for its timely themes and performances but criticism for its heavy-handed messaging and uneven visual effects. Some reviewers have compared the film to other YA dystopian adaptations like “The Hunger Games” and “Divergent,” noting that it follows familiar tropes while attempting to carve its own niche.
Audiences, particularly those in the target demographic of teens and young adults, have responded positively to the film’s central message of self-acceptance and rejection of societal beauty norms. Many viewers have expressed appreciation for the strong female friendship between Tally and Shay, which highlights the importance of solidarity in the face of oppressive standards.
Conclusion While “Uglies” may not revolutionize the YA dystopian genre, it offers a thought-provoking exploration of beauty standards and their impact on self-worth. Through its talented cast and visually striking world-building, the film encourages viewers to question the pressures they face to conform and embrace their individuality. As society continues to grapple with the influence of social media and unrealistic expectations, “Uglies” serves as a reminder that true beauty lies in authenticity and self-love.
