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- Uglies Is Based on the Hit Dystopian YA Book Series
- The Cast and Crew Behind the Netflix Original Uglies
- Why Uglies Might Be Netflix’s Next Big Hit
As a lover of science fiction and someone who has grown up with the transformative power of books, I must say that the upcoming Netflix series “Uglies” has caught my attention like no other. Having spent countless hours immersed in the pages of various novels during my youth, I can’t help but feel a sense of nostalgia when I hear about this adaptation based on Scott Westerfeld’s beloved book series.
After pouring more resources than ever into their original film productions, Netflix has experienced both triumphs and setbacks with their exclusive movies. While they’ve produced critically acclaimed films like All Quiet on the Western Front and Marriage Story, subscribers also encounter less successful titles such as The Ridiculous 6 and The Last Days of American Crime. It can be challenging to foretell which Netflix production will become the next big sensation, but the forthcoming Uglies could potentially be a game-changer for the streaming service.
Let’s discuss why fans of the book series Uglies are eagerly anticipating the upcoming movie, and how its star-studded cast is set to make it a standout choice for younger viewers on Netflix. Here are some key points about Uglies that you should know before it potentially becomes a massive hit on the streaming platform.
Uglies Is Based on the Hit Dystopian YA Book Series
The upcoming Netflix Original film titled “Uglies” has gained popularity among young adult fiction enthusiasts, mirroring the acclaimed series of the same name penned by Scott Westerfeld. This series shares similarities with “The Hunger Games,” particularly in its dystopian backdrop, but it offers a unique twist through its lead character who fights against an oppressive regime not for survival or rebellion, but to challenge beauty standards and resist conformity. While thematically linked by their exploration of a dystopia from a youthful viewpoint, “Uglies” is distinct from Suzanne Collins’ groundbreaking series in terms of its narrative focus.
In this upcoming film, events closely mirror those from the novel, unfolding in a future world where individuals are labeled “Ugly” until they undergo plastic surgery at age 16 to become “Pretty.” The story revolves around Tally Youngblood, a girl on the cusp of turning 16, who initially looks forward to her transformation. However, as two of her friends reveal the harsh physical and psychological effects of these surgeries, Tally’s excitement starts to wane. She becomes increasingly curious about the system that controls her society and decides to challenge it, advocating for individuality and freedom from oppressive societal standards imposed on youth.
Perhaps they didn’t want you to see that every civilization possesses its vulnerabilities. There’s usually something essential we rely on. Should someone strip us of it, all that remains is a tale told in a classroom.” (Scott Westerfeld, Uglies)
Originally, the book series was made up of three volumes: “Uglies”, “Pretties”, and “Specials”. A fourth book titled “Extras” was published following the initial series’ success. Additionally, a spin-off named “Impostors” has been added to the series. Since its debut in 2005, this book series has sold more than 3 million copies, receiving both critical acclaim and positive feedback from fans. Currently, it boasts over 200,000 five-star reviews on Goodreads.
The Cast and Crew Behind the Netflix Original Uglies
Good source material does not always make a great movie. One of the big questions about the success of Uglies rests with its choice of director, McG. McG is not necessarily known for critically acclaimed works, being the director behind such box office disappointments as Charlie’s Angels Full Throttle and Terminator Salvation. However, his more recent work for Netflix, The Babysitter and The Babysitter: Killer Queen, has developed their own cult following and shown that the director seems better served to tackle more youth-oriented thrillers than big-name franchises. The rest of the crew is largely newer to the industry and lacking the accolades of seasoned veterans, but highlights include writer Vanessa Taylor (The Shape of Water, Hillbilly Elegy) and VFX produced by Michelle Aseltine, who worked on the underrated sci-fi feature film, The Creator.
Chase Stokes explains how his character mirrors personal development. As we evolve, we sometimes enter places that seem strange, yet I am convinced that if you maintain a connection with yourself mentally and emotionally, you eventually rediscover your true self.” (Paraphrased from the original quote)
The casting for Uglies is generating a lot of anticipation, particularly with Joey King playing Tally Youngblood. Her fanbase stems from her roles in the widely popular Kissing Booth film series and the cult classic Camp. At a young age, King has already demonstrated remarkable talent through her award-winning performance as Gypsy Rose Blanchard in The Act. Additionally, notable actors like Chase Stokes (Outer Banks), Laverne Cox (Orange is the New Black), Keith Power (Straight Outta Compton), and Brianne Tju (The Babysitter) will also be featured in Uglies.
Why Uglies Might Be Netflix’s Next Big Hit
The Uglies series could potentially be the next big success on Netflix, despite a few concerns about the production team. The popularity of the books, the visually striking direction hinted at by the trailer, and the ensemble cast featuring both established and rising stars suggest it will appeal to younger Netflix viewers (and those who never truly grew up). Additionally, the potential for a longer franchise with adaptations of subsequent books like Pretties, Specials, and Extras gives fans a reason to advocate for others to watch it; however, Netflix has yet to confirm if these other books will be adapted.
A show exploring themes of conformity and beauty norms, especially relevant in today’s society that questions traditional beauty standards more than ever, stars Joey King in a sci-fi series called Uglies. This groundbreaking production could very well be the next major hit on Netflix. Mark your calendars as Uglies will debut on Netflix on September 13, 2024.
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2024-09-07 02:31