Bugonia: Yorgos Lanthimos’s Next Project and Its Origins

Yorgos Lanthimos is set to direct Bugonia, a science-fiction comedy film currently scheduled for a theatrical release on November 7, 2025, according to The Hollywood Reporter. The film is an English-language remake of the 2003 South Korean cult classic Save the Green Planet!, directed by Jang Joon-hwan. Focus Features will distribute the project in North America, while Universal Pictures International will handle the global rollout.

What is the premise of Bugonia?

The plot follows two conspiracy-obsessed individuals who kidnap the powerful CEO of a major company, operating under the belief that she is an alien intent on destroying the planet. As reported by Variety, the script for this adaptation was penned by Will Tracy, known for his work on Succession and The Menu. The narrative structure mirrors the original 2003 film, which blended elements of dark comedy, thriller, and science fiction to explore themes of paranoia and human cruelty.

Who is starring in the film?

Emma Stone and Jesse Plemons are confirmed to lead the cast of Bugonia. Both actors have established ongoing creative partnerships with Lanthimos; Stone starred in his recent projects Poor Things, Kinds of Kindness, and The Favourite, while Plemons also appeared in Kinds of Kindness. Their casting continues Lanthimos’s tendency to work with a recurring ensemble of performers across his filmography.

How does Bugonia compare to the original source material?

The original 2003 film, Save the Green Planet!, was a significant departure from standard genre conventions in South Korean cinema at the time. While the original was praised for its tonal shifts between slapstick humor and intense violence, Lanthimos’s adaptation is expected to filter these elements through his distinct directorial style, characterized by deadpan delivery and surrealist staging. Unlike the original, which was a low-budget independent production, Bugonia is backed by major studio infrastructure, including production support from Ari Aster through his company, Square Peg.

Production and Industry Context

The project represents a rapid turnaround for Lanthimos, who has maintained a prolific output in recent years. Following the success of Poor Things, which won four Academy Awards in 2024, the industry has closely tracked his involvement in high-profile remakes. The decision to adapt a South Korean genre film follows a broader trend of Western studios seeking to translate international cult hits for global English-speaking audiences. According to Deadline, production on Bugonia is slated to take place throughout 2024 to meet the November 2025 deadline.

Key Takeaways

• Release Date: November 7, 2025.
• Director: Yorgos Lanthimos.
• Lead Cast: Emma Stone and Jesse Plemons.
• Source Material: Remake of the 2003 South Korean film Save the Green Planet!.
• Distributor: Focus Features (North America) and Universal Pictures International (Global).