It’s remarkable how much Yorgos Lanthimos’ work resembles a conversation with James Whale. The film introduces "Max" (Ramy Youssef), a student brought in by his professor, "Godwin" (Willem Dafoe – referred to as “God”), to assist on his newest project. Her name is "Bella" (Emma Stone), and it becomes clear that she's the result of some unusual surgical procedures performed by "God"—a man who himself has undergone alterations at the hands of his scientist father. The backstory involves a pregnant woman attempting suicide, being rescued from drowning before her baby died. A surgeon then delivered the infant and replaced the dead woman’s brain with one from the newborn! Consequently, "Bella" faces a steep learning curve and isn't afraid to throw a fit when she wants something—initially, that desire is simply to explore. As she gains power and maturity, she discovers the pleasure of orgasm, which sets her on an unstoppable path. "God" attempts to control her by proposing marriage to "Max," but his demands for a contract are so strict that "Duncan" (Mark Ruffalo) suspects she's worth investigating. He encounters her, offers her what she desires, and convinces "God" to let her go with him on a journey through Europe filled with frequent moments of intense physical pleasure. The quickly developing woman eventually grows tired of her companion and realizes she can have fun while also earning money, before "God" becomes ill and she must return home—not only to that life but also to the one she thought she’d left behind on the bridge. There are genuinely funny moments throughout the film, and Emma Stone delivers what feels like her finest performance. She portrays the almost childlike “Bella” expertly upon introduction, and that skill remains as her character transforms into a clever, resourceful woman who learns to respond in kind. Ruffalo is also excellent as her traveling companion, and Kathryn Hunter provides a strong portrayal of her Parisian employer, "Swiney." The story takes viewers on an impressive tour of European cities while simultaneously offering a poignant look at humanity—flaws and all. “Bella” possesses a practical and analytical mind that sometimes seems strangely detached, yet ultimately she proves to be correct. Although the film runs close to 2½ hours, it feels like it goes by quickly, and I felt sympathy for the billy goat appearing at the end of this creatively interpreted and well-adapted story, which was originally intended to showcase locations in Glasgow.

Source on TMDB