UPDATE: Emma Stone’s highly anticipated film, Bugonia, has just shattered box office records, marking a significant milestone for director Yorgos Lanthimos. The film, which premieres wide on October 31, 2025, is projected to earn an impressive $4.4 million during its opening weekend, setting a new benchmark for Lanthimos, surpassing the previous record held by Poor Things at $2.9 million.
This breakthrough comes as the black comedy, which follows Stone’s character abducted by a conspiracy theorist convinced she is an alien, gears up for its Halloween release. With a current domestic box office total of $5.5 million, Bugonia is on track to gain momentum as the holiday season approaches, despite its substantial $45 million budget.
Critics have responded favorably to the film, giving it a robust 86% score on Rotten Tomatoes. Stone’s performance has positioned her as a strong contender for the Best Actress award, especially after her dramatic head-shaving scene for the role. In a candid moment with Entertainment Weekly, she revealed her fears about the transformation: “I was so afraid to shave my head… I was like, play dead, basically.”
As Stone aims for her third Academy Award, a feat no actor has achieved since Katharine Hepburn, the stakes are high. Lanthimos, known for his unique storytelling, has no current projects in development, as he announced plans for a brief hiatus from filmmaking.
The film’s success arrives amid a challenging year for the box office, making its performance even more noteworthy. Bugonia not only showcases the evolving landscape of cinema but also highlights the ongoing collaboration between Stone and Lanthimos, which has previously garnered multiple Academy Award nominations.
What happens next? Audiences and critics alike will be keeping a close eye on Bugonia as it navigates the crowded holiday box office and potential award nominations. With its intriguing premise and star-studded cast, including Jesse Plemons, the film is poised to make significant waves in the coming weeks.
Stay tuned for more updates as the box office numbers roll in and awards season heats up!
