“Things are just different here, you’ll get it when you’re pretty.”
In a world where the pursuit of perfection is omnipresent, Netflix’s upcoming film ‘Uglies’ couldn’t be more timely. The movie, based on Scott Westerfeld’s 2005 novel, dives deep into a dystopian future where beauty standards are not only unattainable but enforced by law. Scheduled for release on September 13, the official trailer has just dropped, offering a glimpse into a society where cosmetic surgery at the age of 16 is a mandatory rite of passage.
Directed by McG, ‘Uglies’ features an ensemble cast led by Joey King, who also serves as an executive producer. Joining her are Keith Powers, Chase Stokes, Brianne Tju, Jan Luis Castellanos, Charmin Lee, and Laverne Cox. The film’s screenplay is crafted by Emmy-nominated writers Krista Vernoff and Vanessa Taylor.
Watch the trailer below.
The story centers on Tally, a young girl eagerly awaiting her sixteenth birthday, when she will undergo the surgery that will transform her from an “ugly” into a “pretty,” ushering her into a world of luxury and ease. However, when her friend Shay decides to flee rather than conform, Tally is thrust into a dilemma that forces her to question everything she has ever known about beauty and identity. The official logline teases a gripping conflict: “The authorities offer Tally a choice: find her friend and turn her in, or never turn pretty at all. Tally’s choice will change her world forever.”
While ‘Uglies’ is set in a futuristic world, its themes resonate powerfully with today’s society, where the pressure to conform to idealized beauty standards is more intense than ever. The rise of social media has fueled a culture obsessed with appearance, with filters and photo editing apps creating an often-unrealistic portrayal of beauty. This has led to a surge in cosmetic surgery, particularly among young adults who are eager to achieve the flawless looks they see online.
Recent studies show a significant increase in both surgical and non-surgical cosmetic procedures, reflecting a growing trend that mirrors the very world ‘Uglies’ warns against. In 2023 alone, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons reported an uptick in procedures among individuals under 30. This rise in demand for aesthetic perfection underscores the relevance of ‘Uglies’, as the film draws attention to the societal implications of a world where beauty is not just an aspiration but an expectation.
The release of ‘Uglies’ comes at a critical moment, prompting viewers to reflect on the consequences of a culture that places appearance above all else. As the lines between reality and filtered images blur, the film serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of losing oneself in the pursuit of perfection. Tally’s journey, as depicted in the movie, is a mirror to the struggles faced by many today: balancing societal pressures with the desire to remain true to oneself.
In addition to the film, a media tie-in paperback of the original novel will be released on September 17, along with a special edition audiobook narrated by Brianne Tju. These releases are expected to reignite interest in Westerfeld’s series, offering both new and returning readers a chance to explore the thought-provoking world of ‘Uglies’.