On August 31, 2025, Emma Stone’s upcoming film Bugonia, directed by Yorgos Lanthimos, has captured attention for its eerie parallels to the real-life murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson by Luigi Mangione. Stone, speaking at the Telluride Film Festival, expressed shock at the incident after Bugonia’s filming wrapped.
In Bugonia, set for release on October 31, 2025, Emma Stone plays the CEO of a powerful medical company who is kidnapped by a low-level employee, portrayed by Jesse Plemons. The character believes in a conspiracy that Stone’s CEO is an alien plotting to destroy Earth. Consequently, the film delves into themes of paranoia and corporate power, resonating with fans of true crime. The cast also includes Dave Franco, adding star power to Lanthimos’s quirky narrative, per Variety.
The film’s plot reflects the real-life tragedy of Luigi Mangione, who was arrested for shooting UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in New York. Mangione’s mugshots went viral, with some social media users describing him as “attractive,” which sparked widespread online fascination. During a Q&A session at the Telluride Film Festival, Stone commented, “We heard someone was shot up the street. It was a healthcare CEO.” She remarked on the coincidence as “wild,” especially considering the themes explored in the film, Bugonia.
BUGONIA. Watch the official trailer now.
A Yorgos Lanthimos film, starring Emma Stone and Jesse Plemons. Only in theaters October 24. pic.twitter.com/jxeU3oDLrV
— Bugonia (@bugoniafilm) August 28, 2025Stone’s Reaction and Context
Stone expressed unease about the world’s “fraught and terrifying” state during the Q&A, linking the film’s themes to real-world violence. For instance, Bugonia explores societal distrust in institutions, a sentiment echoed in Mangione’s alleged motives, tied to frustrations with healthcare systems, per NBC News. The timing of Thompson’s murder, shortly after filming, amplified the film’s relevance, drawing attention from true crime enthusiasts.
US Attorney General Seeks Death Penalty for Luigi Mangione in CEO Murder Case
Bugonia aims to capitalise on Lanthimos’s dedicated fanbase, especially as films like The Favourite have generated $117 million worldwide. However, some critics warn that romanticising Mangione may downplay the seriousness of the tragedy.
“Bugonia has the potential to spark discussions about corporate ethics and mental health, especially in light of the high-profile Mangione case. Stone’s performance, following her Oscar win for *Poor Things*, positions the film well for awards consideration. Additionally, Lanthimos’s collaboration with Franco and Plemons adds an intriguing element, which could attract up to 10 million viewers.”
