Emily Zemler
Updated on: October 12, 2024 5:08 am GMT
Netflix’s latest release, “Uglies,” is making waves for all the wrong reasons, dethroning the critically acclaimed film “Rebel Ridge” to become the platform’s top movie. Based on Scott Westerfeld’s well-known 2005 young adult novel, the film has garnered attention but mostly negative reviews since its September 13 debut.
A Dystopian Narrative Unfolds
“Uglies” transports viewers to a dystopian society where cosmetic surgery is not only common but mandatory upon turning sixteen. In this world, represented by a stark divide between “Uglies” and “Pretties,” the idea of beauty has been weaponized as a means of social structure.
The protagonist, Tally Youngblood, played by Joey King, is desperate to undergo this procedure. When her best friend Peris, portrayed by Chase Stokes, becomes silent as he approaches his transformation date, Tally embarks on a journey to find him. Along the way, she meets Shay (Brianne Tju), who challenges her views on beauty and conformity.
This premise has profound implications, addressing issues surrounding identity, beauty standards, and societal norms, but how well does the film deliver on these themes?
Mixed Reception
Upon its release, “Uglies” faced disappointing critiques. The film holds a mere 20% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, reflecting an overwhelming sense of dissatisfaction among critics. Furthermore, the audience score stands at a modest 54%, suggesting that even the viewers are not fully embracing this adaptation—unusual for a platform like Netflix, which often enjoys a more favorable audience reaction.
- Critics’ Highlights:
- Weak plot development
- Subpar CGI effects
- Predictable character arcs
- Viewer Feedback:
- Lack of emotional engagement
- Underwhelming action sequences
- Missed opportunities in world-building
Alternatives Worth Watching
While “Uglies” struggles to find its footing, other films on streaming platforms are capturing audience attention.
Dystopian Tales Take Center Stage
Another dystopian film trending is “Civil War” on Max. Written and directed by Alex Garland, the film follows war journalists navigating a chaotic landscape of a U.S. government revolt. The cast includes notable names such as Kirsten Dunst and Nick Offerman.
On Hulu, “Boy Kills World” is captivating viewers with its action-comedy blend. Starring Bill Skarsgård, the film revolves around a young man seeking vengeance against the killers of his family, adding layers of excitement and emotional depth.
Peacock also enjoys excitement with “The Fall Guy,” a film about a stunt double caught in a criminal web. Starring Emily Blunt and Ryan Gosling, it’s a nostalgic nod to the 1980s TV show.
A Family-Friendly Choice
If looking for something lighter, Paramount+ offers “IF,” a fantasy film by John Krasinski. It tells the story of a girl who can see other people’s childhood imaginary friends, mixing humor and heartwarming moments for family viewing.
What Lies Ahead for “Uglies”?
Despite its lackluster reception, the adaptation raises questions about the future of Scott Westerfeld’s series on screen. With two sequels in the book series, many fans wonder if Netflix will venture to adapt more of the story, especially after “Uglies” struggled to engage viewers.
In the current landscape of streaming, where viewers discern quality rapidly, it remains to be seen whether a follow-up will be deemed worthy by both critics and audiences.
In Summary
“Uglies” illustrates the challenges of adapting beloved literary works. Although the film captures the essence of Westerfeld’s narrative, it falters in execution, leading to a disappointing performance on the Netflix charts. Its lack of depth, coupled with competition from other compelling stories on various streaming platforms, suggests that audiences are seeking more than just flashy visuals; they crave emotional engagement and impactful storytelling.
As streaming continues to dominate our viewing habits, the success of adaptations will hinge on the connection they forge with their audience, much like their printed counterparts. While “Uglies” might find a specific audience, its current standing and negative reviews highlight a dilemma facing many adaptations attempting to rekindle nostalgia in a shifting cultural landscape.
Will Netflix learn from this experience and change how it does things for future projects? Viewers really hope so!
