Yorgos Lanthimos’ “Poor Things” has captivated audiences with its bizarre and beautiful world, and one scene, in particular, has become a cultural phenomenon: the dance scene. Starring Emma Stone and Mark Ruffalo, this sequence is more than just quirky movement; it’s a carefully crafted explosion of character, inspired by Portuguese folklore and brought to life through innovative choreography. This article delves into the creation of this memorable scene, exploring its folkloric roots, the genius of choreographer Constanza Macras, and the surprising contributions from the actors themselves.
Rooted in Tradition: The Portuguese Folklore Inspiration
Choreographer Constanza Macras, in an interview with Business Insider, revealed that the “Poor Things” dance scene’s foundation lies in Portuguese folklore. Tasked with creating a dance that felt both authentic and slightly off-kilter, Macras immersed herself in Portuguese dance traditions. This research provided the bedrock for Bella’s (Emma Stone) unrestrained and unconventional movements, contrasting sharply with Duncan Wedderburn’s (Mark Ruffalo) attempts at more conventional steps. This deliberate choice to draw from folklore adds layers of meaning to the scene, grounding Bella’s chaotic energy in established cultural forms while simultaneously subverting them.
The Choreographer’s Vision: Constanza Macras Brings “Poor Things” to Life
Constanza Macras, known for her avant-garde and often theatrical choreography, was the perfect choice to bring Lanthimos’ vision to life. Having previously worked with the director on “The Favourite,” Macras understood his desire for dances that were precise yet unconventional. For “Poor Things,” Lanthimos provided Macras with the full script and Portuguese-inspired music samples, allowing her to develop a dance that was deeply integrated into the narrative and setting. Macras collaborated with her dance company, DorkyPark, initially devising movements without music and then layering in the Portuguese soundscapes. This methodical approach ensured that the choreography was not just visually striking but also thematically resonant with the film’s Lisbon setting and Bella’s burgeoning identity.
Emma Stone and Mark Ruffalo: Embracing the Unconventional
While Macras laid the choreographic groundwork, the actors, Emma Stone and Mark Ruffalo, played a crucial role in shaping the final dance scene. Macras dedicated two hours a day for two weeks before filming to rehearse with Stone and Ruffalo. Interestingly, Mark Ruffalo reportedly felt less confident about dancing initially, but dedicated himself to mastering the steps, resulting in a performance that feels both humorous and natural within the scene’s context.
Image alt text: Emma Stone’s character Bella performs a dynamic and unconventional dance in “Poor Things”, highlighting her expressive physicality.
Emma Stone, on the other hand, embraced the dance with remarkable ease, even contributing a key element to the choreography. Macras revealed that the spinning movement Bella initiates upon entering the dance floor was Stone’s own improvisation. This collaborative spirit between choreographer and actor highlights how the “Poor Things” dance scene was not just a set piece but a dynamic creation where performance and character development intertwined. By the time filming began, both actors had fully embodied the dance, making it their own and enhancing its on-screen impact.
Image alt text: Behind the scenes image of Emma Stone during the filming of the “Poor Things” dance scene, showcasing the filming setup and Stone’s focused performance.
Directing the Non-Dancers: Creating a Believable Dance Floor
A unique aspect of the “Poor Things” dance scene is the presence of extras who, according to Macras, were not professional dancers. Lanthimos prioritized casting extras based on their look rather than dance experience, presenting Macras with the challenge of creating a believable and engaging dance floor with non-dancers. To overcome this, Macras’ assistant communicated steps during filming, using verbal cues like “Leg!” and “Chest!” to guide the extras through synchronized movements. This approach allowed for a raw and authentic energy on screen, contributing to the scene’s delightfully chaotic atmosphere. The extras’ unpolished movements further emphasize Bella’s own unique and untrained style, making her stand out even more.
12 Hours and 60 Takes: The Dedication Behind the Scene
The seemingly brief dance sequence on screen was the result of an extensive and demanding filming process. Macras disclosed that filming the scene took over 12 hours and involved more than 60 takes. This dedication to capturing the perfect performance underscores the importance Lanthimos placed on this scene within the film. The numerous takes allowed for fine-tuning of both the actors’ and extras’ performances, ensuring that the final cut delivered the intended blend of humor, awkwardness, and mesmerizing movement.
From Film to TikTok: A Viral Dance Sensation
The “Poor Things” dance scene has resonated far beyond the confines of the cinema, becoming a viral sensation, particularly on platforms like TikTok. Its quirky and unconventional nature has inspired countless imitations and tributes, further cementing its place in popular culture. Macras herself expressed surprise at the dance’s widespread popularity, initially viewing it as a “nice” scene but not anticipating its viral impact. The dance’s virality speaks to its unique appeal – it is both humorous and strangely compelling, reflecting the film’s overall tone and Bella’s captivatingly unconventional character. The possibility of the dance being performed at the Oscars, as Macras jokingly suggested, highlights its cultural significance and the lasting impression it has made on audiences.
In conclusion, the “Poor Things” dance scene is a masterclass in cinematic storytelling through movement. It is a testament to the collaborative genius of Yorgos Lanthimos, Constanza Macras, Emma Stone, and Mark Ruffalo, blending folkloric inspiration with avant-garde choreography and captivating performances. More than just a dance, it is a pivotal moment in “Poor Things,” encapsulating Bella’s journey of self-discovery and leaving an indelible mark on viewers worldwide.
