Uglies

Synopsis

In the future, beauty is dictated by society’s strict standards, leading to an unsettling transformation of the human experience. Uglies is based on the popular dystopian novel by Scott Westerfeld, and follows the story of Tally Youngblood (played by Joey King), a teenager who must make the difficult choice between conformity and individuality. As she nears her sixteenth birthday, Tally is set to undergo the operation that will make her 'pretty'—a procedure that promises to erase any trace of ugliness, both inside and out. However, when Tally discovers a group of rebels who reject societal norms and embrace their natural selves, she is faced with a moral dilemma. Torn between her pre-programmed desire for beauty and a newfound appreciation for authenticity, Tally embarks on a journey of self-discovery and rebellion. The film highlights themes of self-identity, societal pressure, and the importance of embracing one's true self in a world obsessed with perfection.

Cast

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  Joey King

  Tally

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  Brianne Tju

  Shay

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  Keith Powers

  David

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  Chase Stokes

  Peris

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  Laverne Cox

  Dr. Cable

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  Charmin Lee

  Maddy

Reviews

Critics have been mixed about 'Uglies,' with many pointing out its ambitious premise but ultimately feeling let down by its execution. Rotten Tomatoes reported only 20% of critics gave it a favorable review, while IMDb averages the film at 4.7/10. The Verge described it as 'visually stunning but narratively shallow,' emphasizing that although it sparks intriguing discussions about beauty standards, it fails to fully explore these themes. In contrast, IndieWire praised Joey King's performance, stating, 'Her portrayal of Tally is both vulnerable and fierce, embodying the struggle between societal expectations and personal identity.' These sentiments echoed across various platforms, with Metacritic users calling it 'a missed opportunity' and 'an important message overshadowed by a lack of depth.' Overall, while some performances, particularly that of King, received accolades, the film was criticized for its pacing and lack of character development, leaving viewers wanting more depth in such a compelling world.