Bugonia, a film by Yorgos Lanthimos, draws inspiration from the 2003 South Korean movie Save the Green Planet!, but updates its themes for a contemporary American audience. The story revolves around a conspiracy theorist who believes a high-profile executive is an alien threat to humanity. The character of Teddy, portrayed by Jesse Plemons, embodies a complex mixture of anxiety and determination, reflecting modern societal fears.
Screenwriter Will Tracy shared insights into his character development, explaining that his research involved exploring online communities like Reddit and YouTube comments. He aimed to create a distinct character rather than a stereotype drawn from current societal labels, acknowledging the misconception surrounding terms like 'incel.' Tracy emphasized a desire to portray Teddy as a purposeful individual, rather than a simple composite of existing categories.
Reflecting on the cultural implications of violence, Tracy noted how events often provoke immediate reactions that assign blame based on political affiliations. He highlighted the complexity of these narratives, suggesting that individuals may not fit neatly into societal labels, which adds depth to Teddy's character in Bugonia.