techxly@gmail.com
Look, if your brain is still vibrating from the sheer aesthetic chaos of Yorgos Lanthimos’ Poor Things, you aren’t alone. We’re all still processing Bella Baxter’s wardrobe and that dance scene, honestly. If you’re craving more surreal, visually loud, and slightly unsettling cinema that makes you feel like you’ve been transported to another dimension, I’ve got you covered. Here are 12 movies that hit that same specific, weird, and absolutely iconic sweet spot.
1. The Lobster (2015) — Because Yorgos Lanthimos is the King of Weird
Real talk: if you loved Poor Things, you have to go back to Lanthimos’ earlier work. This movie is about people turning into animals if they can’t find a partner, which sounds wild because it is. It’s got that dry, deadpan humor that hits different. Honestly, watching Colin Farrell try to find love while fearing he’ll end up as a crustacean is the kind of stress I live for. It’s sitting at 87% on Rotten Tomatoes for a reason.
2. The Favourite (2018) — More Corsets, More Chaos
Related Reading
Olivia Colman, Emma Stone, and Rachel Weisz in a bitter power struggle? Say less. This is Lanthimos at his most biting. It’s period-accurate but feels like it’s happening in an alternate universe. The pettiness level is honestly aspirational. If you were here for Bella Baxter’s journey toward autonomy, you’ll love seeing these characters fight for their lives in the British court. It’s basically a high-stakes soap opera with better lighting.
3. Titane (2021) — Not for the Faint of Heart
Okay, so this is definitely a mood shift, but if you liked the body horror elements of Poor Things, Titane is the next level. It won the Palme d’Or at Cannes and honestly, my jaw was on the floor the entire time. It’s weird, it’s visceral, and it’s completely unforgettable. It’s definitely not a ‘popcorn flick’ for a first date, but if you want to be shocked, this is it, no cap.
4. Barbie (2023) — The Aesthetic Cousin
Hear me out! Both Bella Baxter and Barbie are learning how to exist in a world that wasn’t built for them. While Barbie is obviously more pink, the themes of self-discovery and questioning the status quo are super similar. Plus, the costume design in both movies is just *chef’s kiss*. It’s a total mood shift, but the existential crisis energy is exactly the same. We love a self-actualized queen, honestly.
5. The City of Lost Children (1995) — The Visual Blueprint
If you were obsessed with the steampunk, dreamlike world of Poor Things, this is where you need to look. It’s a French sci-fi fantasy that feels like a fever dream in the best way possible. The visuals are so distinct that you’ll be pausing every few seconds just to stare at the production design. It’s an older flick, but it honestly holds up as a visual masterpiece that paved the way for modern surrealism.
6. Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004) — For the Existential Dread
We all know this one, but it hits differently when you’re craving that ‘what does it mean to be human’ vibe. Watching Jim Carrey and Kate Winslet navigate a world where they can erase memories is just as heartbreaking and beautiful as Bella’s journey. It’s the ultimate ‘I’m going to sit in the dark and think about my life’ movie. Honestly, it’s a classic for a reason. Grab the tissues, you’ll need them.
7. Poor Things’ Predecessor: Frankenstein (1931)
You can’t talk about Bella Baxter without acknowledging the OG. This is the blueprint for the ‘created human’ trope. Watching the 1931 version after seeing Poor Things is such a trip. It’s fascinating to see how the story has evolved from a straight-up horror flick to the colorful, feminist romp we got in 2023. It’s short, it’s iconic, and honestly, the practical effects are still impressive today. A total must-watch for film nerds.
8. Being John Malkovich (1999) — Pure Surrealist Joy
If you liked the ‘wait, what is happening right now’ feeling of Poor Things, this is your next obsession. It’s about a guy who finds a portal into John Malkovich’s brain. Yes, really. It’s hilarious, weird, and deeply philosophical all at once. Spike Jonze really went for it here. You’ll be thinking about this one for days. It’s the kind of movie that makes you question reality, which is honestly the vibe we’re going for.
9. The Fall (2006) — A Visual Feast
If the costumes and sets were your favorite part of Poor Things, you’ll be living for The Fall. It’s directed by Tarsem Singh and it’s arguably one of the most beautiful movies ever made. The story is a bit wild, but the visuals? Unmatched. It’s like looking at a series of paintings that move. It’s available on various streaming platforms, and I promise you, it’s the kind of movie that stays in your head forever.
10. Poor Things’ Stylistic Twin: Brazil (1985)
Terry Gilliam’s Brazil is the ultimate dystopian nightmare, but it’s so stylish you almost don’t mind. It’s got that same ‘retro-future’ aesthetic that made Poor Things so visually captivating. It explores bureaucracy and the loss of individuality in such a weird, funny way. It’s a bit of a cult classic, but if you’re a fan of Lanthimos, you’ll appreciate the sheer audacity of this film. It’s chaotic, it’s loud, and it’s total mood.
11. A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night (2014) — Feminist Vibe Check
This is a ‘Persian-language vampire Western’—yeah, you read that right. It’s got a super cool, monochromatic aesthetic that feels like a graphic novel come to life. The main character is a total badass, just like Bella. It’s stylish, moody, and has a soundtrack that will immediately go on your Spotify rotation. If you want a movie that oozes cool, this is the one. Honestly, I’m still obsessed with the lead actress’s style.
12. The Shape of Water (2017) — The Ultimate Creature Feature
Okay, if you loved the romantic, fantastical elements of Poor Things, you have to watch this. Guillermo del Toro is a master at making the ‘monstrous’ feel incredibly human. It’s a beautiful love story that feels like a fairytale for adults. It won Best Picture for a reason, guys! Watching the connection between the characters is just so sweet. It’s the perfect palate cleanser after a long week of feeling like a weirdo yourself.
FAQs
Is Poor Things worth watching if I like weird movies?
Absolutely. It’s one of the weirdest and most visually inventive films of the last few years. If you’re into surrealism and dark humor, you’ll be absolutely obsessed with Bella Baxter’s journey.
Where can I stream movies like Poor Things?
Most of these are available on platforms like Max, Criterion Channel, or Hulu. Since they are a mix of indie and cult classics, you might need to check your local streaming library occasionally.
Why are people so obsessed with Poor Things?
Honestly, it’s the combination of Emma Stone’s career-best performance, the insane production design, and the fact that it’s just so unapologetically strange. It’s a total vibe that sticks with you long after the credits roll.
There you have it! Your watchlist is officially stacked with enough weird, wild, and wonderful cinema to keep you busy for a while. Whether you’re into the aesthetics, the existential dread, or just the sheer ‘what did I just watch’ factor, these picks have you covered. Which one are you watching first? Let me know in the comments—I need to know your thoughts, bestie!
