The Greek premiere of Yorgos Lanthimos’ new film, “Bugonia” served as the opening feature of the 31st Athens International Film Festival (AIFF) – Premiere Nights. The screening, held at the Athens Concert Hall, confirmed the film’s significant profile ahead of its international release.
“Bugonia” is a surrealist science fiction comedy thriller, based on the acclaimed 2003 South Korean film “Save the Green Planet!” The title itself refers to the ancient myth of bugonia, the spontaneous generation of bees from the carcass of an ox.
The plot centers on two young men who are consumed by extreme conspiracy theories. Convinced that a powerful, ruthless executive (played by Emma Stone) is actually an alien responsible for destroying the Earth, they devise a plan to kidnap her. The film explores Lanthimos’ signature themes of paranoia, societal anxiety, and dark humor, all framed by a unique sci-fi concept. The film also stars Jesse Plemons and Willem Dafoe.
Premiere night recap and Emma Stone’s message in Greece
Despite the film being one of the most talked-about projects in production, director Yorgos Lanthimos admitted to the audience at the Athens Concert Hall that premiering his work in his home country always brings a special, heightened sense of “anxiety”—a feeling perhaps rooted in the unique connection he shares with the Greek audience.
While many attendees had hoped to see lead actress Emma Stone, she was unable to attend the event. Lanthimos, however, prepared a thoughtful gesture for the crowd. He explained that although Stone had not mastered the Greek language, she was able to read its alphabet. He had composed a short text for her in Greek, which she recorded.
The recording, played via Lanthimos’ cell phone, surprised and delighted the audience. Stone’s voice was heard saying:
“Good evening. I would have loved to be with you tonight, at the first screening of Bugonia in Greece, but unfortunately, the beaming did not work. I wish you a good screening and a good evening.”
The joke about the failure of “beaming” (or teleportation)—captured the director and actress’s playful rapport and was a memorable start to the festival.
Related: Yorgos Lanthimos, Costa-Gavras Join Gaza Protest at Cannes Festival
