Uglies

Forget Beauty! Why 'Uglies' is the Dystopian Drama We Love to Hate!

Is Netflix's 'Uglies' a dystopian disaster or just cleverly ugly? Find out why this adaptation has become the talk of the town!

In a world where beauty is worshipped and the ugly are discarded like last week’s leftovers, Netflix’s new film "Uglies" attempts to paint a cautionary tale about society’s obsession with looks. Based on Scott Westerfeld’s 2005 novel, this young adult adaptation stars Joey King and Chase Stokes, capturing the essence of a teenage rebellion against plastic beauty standards. However, critics have given this film a less than flattering makeover, calling it a drab and dated reflection of the YA dystopian genre that leaves much to be desired.

Joey King dives deep into her role as Tally Youngblood, a girl living in a society that mandates cosmetic surgery to achieve beauty—yet the narrative feels stuck in a recycling bin of familiar tropes. With so many YA films focusing on dystopias filled with over-the-top reactions to societal norms, you might find yourself shaking your head more than once while watching. Critics are already remarking that "Uglies" embodies everything that frustrates them about the genre. Seriously, who knew being ugly could be such a yawn-fest?

Yet, it’s not all doom and gloom! The film does have its moments, filled with heartfelt performances and a dash of humor as Brianne Tju, who portrays Shay, experiences her own transformation. With the movie's focus on self-identity and challenge against societal norms, there’s a glimmer of hope that audiences can embrace that message amid the cinematic chaos. Joey King and Chase Stokes even took the opportunity to promote a new phase of 'yassification'—essentially a humorous nod to turning up the glam amidst the bleakness of their roles.

As we munch popcorn and catch up with our favorite characters, the film's ending leaves viewers wondering if a sequel is on the horizon! Fans are buzzing, speculating about "Pretties," the anticipated follow-up. So here’s the million-shilling question: Will we see more hijinks from Tally and friends? Everyone's waiting on Netflix for the reveal, because if there's one thing we've learned, it's that this peculiar dystopia might have more chapters yet to unveil!