Uglies director hits back at main criticism of Netflix movie

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As a gamer with a decade-long journey through various virtual worlds and societies, I can wholeheartedly appreciate the bold narrative choice made by director McG in the adaptation of Uglies. The decision to cast conventionally attractive actors and actresses serves as a poignant reminder that even the most beautiful among us are not immune to societal pressures and self-doubt.

Uglies spoilers follow.

Director McG, known for “Uglies”, has addressed the primary concern expressed by fans regarding the movie featuring Joey King.

The Netflix movie is based on Scott Westerfeld’s first book in the Uglies series, and it’s set in a future society where at age 16, individuals undergo mandatory surgeries to transform into their most attractive selves, called “Pretties.” Before this transformation, they are known as “Uglies” and often faced rejection because they were not yet considered perfect.

McG acknowledges that the cast of his film includes individuals who are typically considered attractive, with King being one of them, alongside Brianne Tju, Chase Stokes, Keith Powers, and Laverne Cox – just to mention a few.

In the opinion of the movie creator, featuring visually appealing characters in the movie “Uglies” was a method used to convey the film’s message with greater impact.

“That’s precisely why we did it, is because we’re saying it’s never enough,” he told The Wrap.

“McG asserted that no one or nothing can surpass the beauty of your cast, but he also pointed out that such comments are not the essence. There will always be someone or something to find fault with.

He went on to say, “It seems to me that if you were to talk to some individuals widely recognized as exceptionally attractive globally, many of them struggle profoundly with body image issues, often referred to as body dysmorphia.

This film aims to counteract the pervasive mindset that constantly encourages dissatisfaction with one’s body: “You can always strive for a slimmer waist, larger hips, or fuller lips.” This harmful ideology is prevalent in many aspects of life, but this movie serves as a remedy against such thinking.

Earlier, McG had voiced his opinion about the movie’s last suspenseful moment, indicating that the outcome for a particular character was intentionally unclear. (Caution: Spoilers follow if you have not watched Uglies yet.)

Protagonist Tally’s (King) best friend Peris (Stokes) falls off a roof in the final scenes.

Initially in the film, Peris has surgery performed on him, and sinister Dr. Cable (played by Cox) proposes that he transform into a “Special”, a being who hunts down fugitive “Uglies” using extraordinary abilities. This choice strains his bond with Tally; however, the ending offers a possibility for them to reconcile, assuming Peris survives.

As a gamer, I can’t help but ponder: is he alive inside there, a blend of good and evil? Has Cable triumphed, or has his bond with his friend prevailed in the end? I adore tales that delve into such complex emotions.

Uglies is streaming now on Netflix.

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2024-09-19 21:48