Emma Stone has made headlines not just for her performance in the film Bugonia, but also for her bold decision to shave her head for the role. The actress portrays CEO Michelle Fueller, a character with potential extra-terrestrial connections, in her latest collaboration with director Yorgos Lanthimos. The film, which has garnered critical acclaim, is now available for digital purchase and rental.
In an interview with PEOPLE, Stone shared a unique condition she set for shaving her head. Before agreeing to the dramatic transformation, she insisted that Lanthimos also shave his head in solidarity. “When I knew we were gonna do this … I said to Yorgos, ‘We’re gonna have to shave your head too so that we’re in solidarity.’ And he’s like, ‘Okay,’” she revealed in a behind-the-scenes video.
The video showcases Stone taking on the task of shaving Lanthimos’s head herself. Reflecting on the experience, she remarked, “It was exciting, but it wasn’t as exciting as I thought it would be to shave his head. It was cool. But it felt more dramatic, my shave. I don’t mean to brag, but my hair was pretty long, and his was not.”
The transformation was not a one-time event; the hair and makeup team reportedly had to shave Stone’s head every three days during filming to maintain continuity. The decision to go bald was integral to her character’s storyline, and Stone executed the look with impressive conviction.
Alongside Stone, Bugonia features a talented cast, including Jesse Plemons, Aidan Delbis, Stavros Halkias, and Alicia Silverstone. The film has been well-received by critics, highlighting Stone’s dedication to her craft and her willingness to push boundaries for her roles.
As the film continues to attract attention, it serves as a testament to Stone’s commitment to her characters and the collaborative spirit she shares with Lanthimos.
