Acclaimed filmmaker Yorgos Lanthimos, known for his unique storytelling and innovative cinematic style, is back with his latest project, ‘Kinds of Kindness’. This film, a triptych fable, promises to be a multi-layered narrative that will take the audience on a journey through different stories, yet unified under a shared thematic umbrella.
The Narrative
‘Kinds of Kindness’ presents three interconnected stories. The first follows a man without choice trying to take control of his own life. The second involves a policeman who grapples with his wife’s unexpected return from a sea voyage, now a seemingly different person. The third story revolves around a woman determined to find a specific someone with a special ability, destined to be a prodigious spiritual leader. Each story explores complex themes of power, control, free will, and the dynamics of human relationships.
The Cast and Crew
The film boasts a star-studded ensemble, including two-time Academy Award winner Emma Stone, Academy Award nominees Jesse Plemons and Willem Dafoe, Margaret Qualley, Academy Award nominee Hong Chau, Mamoudou Athie, Joe Alwyn, and Hunter Schafer.
Behind the scenes, the film is a result of a longstanding collaboration between Lanthimos and Academy Award nominee Efthimis Filippou. Their partnership, which has culminated in multiple Greek and English language projects, has consistently pushed the boundaries of cinematic storytelling. Their approach to writing, characterized by observing human behaviors, reactions, and relationships, results in narratives that are both surreal and deeply relatable.
Evolution of the Narrative
Interestingly, ‘Kinds of Kindness’ began as a single narrative but evolved into a triptych anthology over the years. Lanthimos and Filippou started with one story but expanded their narrative into a film with a structure different from their previous works. This shift in format allowed them to explore multiple stories while maintaining a thematic thread that binds them together.
Themes and Motifs
Thematically, ‘Kinds of Kindness’ is rich and layered. It explores power dynamics, control, free will, and the complexities of human relationships. Lanthimos’ unique style often involves taking societal norms and expectations to absurd but darkly funny extremes. This approach is evident in the film as it provides a unique perspective on how individuals navigate their lives according to societal rules and personal beliefs.
A specific theme that Lanthimos keenly examines throughout the three stories is that of authority and how free will fluctuates, the struggle between the freedom of choice and the freedom from choice. The film questions the extent to which people will go to fit in, to feel a sense of belonging, and to gain control – either over their own lives or the lives of others.
Behind the Title
The film, previously titled ‘RMF’ and then ‘AND’, underwent a name change due to practical issues. Lanthimos opted for ‘Kinds of Kindness’ for its polysemic nature, with the title holding multiple meanings relevant to the film’s context.
In Conclusion
‘Kinds of Kindness’ promises to be a thought-provoking cinematic experience, blending complex themes with compelling storytelling. With its stellar cast, unique narrative structure, and the signature touch of Lanthimos and Filippou, it is set to leave audiences worldwide captivated and pondering long after the credits roll.
