Italian
Yorgos Lanthimos’s ‘Kinds of Kindness’ set for digital and Blu-ray release
A cinematic journey into the bizarre
After captivating audiences in theaters this past June, Yorgos Lanthimos’s latest film, Kinds of Kindness, is poised to make its way into homes. This intriguing piece will be available on digital platforms like Prime Video and Apple TV+ starting August 27, with a Blu-ray/DVD release following on October 8.
A triptych of twisted tales
Premiering at the Cannes Film Festival in May, Kinds of Kindness is a collection of three increasingly bizarre storylines. The film explores the lives of a man trying to regain control of his life, a policeman whose wife returns from the sea as a seemingly different person, and a woman searching for someone with a unique ability. The narrative is as complex as it is captivating, promising a unique viewing experience.
Star-studded cast
The film boasts an impressive ensemble cast, featuring Lanthimos regular Emma Stone, who previously starred in his Oscar-nominated Poor Things. Joining her are Jesse Plemons, Willem Dafoe, Margaret Qualley, Hong Chau, Mamoudou Athie, Joe Alwyn, and Hunter Schafer. Each actor takes on multiple roles across the film’s three segments, with Yorgos Stefanakos’s character RMF appearing in all parts.
Behind-the-scenes insights
The digital and physical releases of Kinds of Kindness will come with a treasure trove of bonus content. This includes a featurette titled Takes All Kinds: The Vision of Kinds of Kindness, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the film’s costumes, cinematography, and music. Additionally, fans can enjoy deleted scenes that provide further depth to the film’s intricate narrative.
Mixed critical reception
Upon its debut at Cannes, Kinds of Kindness received a mixed bag of reviews. Critics were divided, with some finding the film too strange, even by Lanthimos’s standards. However, others appreciated the director’s unique approach. One critic noted that Lanthimos ”keeps you squirming for nearly three hours in a biting power parody,” highlighting the film’s distinct rhythm and surprising tension.
Personal reflections for cinema enthusiasts
For those who revel in the unconventional, Kinds of Kindness is a must-watch. Lanthimos’s ability to craft narratives that defy expectations is on full display here. The film’s exploration of identity, control, and the human condition is both thought-provoking and unsettling. It’s a cinematic experience that challenges viewers to look beyond the surface and delve into the deeper meanings behind each storyline.
Direct links to trailers and information
For a sneak peek into the world of Kinds of Kindness, check out the trailer and get more information about the film.
A deeper dive into the film’s themes
Kinds of Kindness is not just a film; it’s an exploration of the human psyche. Each segment of the triptych delves into different aspects of human nature, from the struggle for control to the search for identity. Lanthimos’s storytelling is both intricate and layered, offering viewers a rich tapestry of themes to unravel.
The man without choice
The first segment follows a man who feels trapped by circumstances beyond his control. His journey to reclaim his life is a poignant reflection on the human desire for autonomy and the lengths we go to achieve it.
The transformed wife
In the second segment, a policeman grapples with the return of his wife, who seems fundamentally changed after being lost at sea. This storyline explores themes of identity and transformation, questioning what it means to truly know someone.
The search for a special ability
The final segment centers on a woman in search of someone with a unique ability. This quest is a metaphor for the human pursuit of meaning and connection, highlighting our innate desire to find something extraordinary in the ordinary.
Final thoughts
Kinds of Kindness is a film that defies easy categorization. It’s a bold, daring piece of cinema that challenges viewers to think deeply about the stories it tells. Whether you’re a fan of Lanthimos’s previous work or new to his films, this is a journey worth taking.
Don’t miss the chance to experience Kinds of Kindness on digital platforms starting August 27 and on Blu-ray/DVD on October 8.
