In a world where young adult dystopian franchises once thrived, the recent Netflix adaptation of Uglies feels like a relic from a bygone era. Based on Scott Westerfeld’s 2005 novel, this film attempts to kick off a new trilogy but ultimately falls flat, struggling to resonate in a landscape that has moved on from the likes of The Hunger Games and Divergent.
Key points
Directed by McG, known for his work on The Babysitter: Killer Queen, Uglies tries to capture the essence of its predecessors but ends up feeling derivative and uninspired.
A Familiar Premise
Set in a future where plastic surgery is the norm and beauty standards dictate societal worth, Uglies introduces us to Tally Youngblood, played by Joey King. The film opens with a heavy dose of exposition, explaining the oil crisis that led to a post-apocalyptic world and the subsequent rise of a beauty-obsessed society. The narrative quickly establishes the stakes: at the age of 16, every citizen undergoes a transformation to become “Pretty,” a process that Tally is eagerly anticipating.
However, the film’s execution leaves much to be desired. The script, co-written by Vanessa Taylor (known for her work on Divergent), lacks depth and relies heavily on clichés. Tally’s best friend, Peris (played by Chase Stokes), is set to undergo his surgery, and the two share a moment of connection before he becomes cold and distant post-transformation. This predictable arc sets the stage for Tally’s journey, but the emotional stakes feel shallow and unconvincing.
A Dystopian Society
The world of Uglies is visually striking, yet it suffers from over-reliance on CGI. The capital city is depicted as a garishly colorful place, contrasting sharply with the desolate surroundings. While the production design aims for a vibrant aesthetic, it often comes off as cartoonish rather than immersive. The film’s attempt to critique beauty standards is undermined by its own reliance on attractive actors and glossy visuals.
As Tally navigates her world, she befriends Shay (played by Brianne Tju), who rebels against the forced surgeries by joining a group of outsiders known as the Smoke. When Shay goes missing, Tally is faced with a choice: find Shay and uncover the secrets of the Smoke or remain “Ugly” forever. This premise has the potential for a compelling exploration of identity and societal pressure, but the film fails to delve into these themes meaningfully.
Missed Opportunities
Despite its intriguing premise, Uglies struggles to deliver a coherent message. The film hints at deeper themes of self-acceptance and the dangers of conforming to societal standards, yet these ideas are presented in a clumsy and superficial manner. The dialogue often feels forced, lacking the nuance needed to engage viewers on a deeper level.
Moreover, the casting choices raise eyebrows. Chase Stokes, at 31, is hardly convincing as a 16-year-old, and the film’s attempts to invoke literary references, such as Henry David Thoreau’s Walden Pond, come off as awkward and out of place. The character of Dr. Cable, played by Laverne Cox, adds another layer of complexity, as she embodies the villainous figure promoting toxic beauty standards. However, the portrayal feels problematic, given the film’s overall message about the dangers of superficiality.
A Lack of Depth
While Joey King brings a certain charm to her role, her performance cannot salvage the film from its shortcomings. Tally’s character is inconsistent, often making decisions that feel contrived to advance the plot rather than reflecting genuine growth. The film’s pacing is uneven, with moments of action that lack tension and emotional weight.
Ultimately, Uglies feels like a missed opportunity to explore important themes relevant to today’s youth. The film’s critique of beauty standards and societal pressures is overshadowed by its reliance on tired tropes and a lack of originality. Instead of offering a fresh perspective, Uglies comes across as just another throwaway product in a saturated market.
Conclusion
As Uglies makes its debut on Netflix, it’s clear that this adaptation struggles to find its footing in a genre that has seen better days. While the source material has the potential for a thought-provoking exploration of identity and beauty, the film fails to deliver a compelling narrative. For those seeking a meaningful commentary on societal standards, Uglies may leave you feeling disappointed. In a landscape filled with rich storytelling, this adaptation feels like a missed opportunity to engage with the pressing issues of our time.
