Little Joe (2019)

Jessica Hausner's drama "Little Joe" (2019), starring Emily Beecham, Ben Whishaw, Lindsay Duncan, and others, immerses the viewer in a world where the promise of happiness turns into anxiety. It's an exploration of the psyche and the ethics of science, wrapped in a dark yet captivating story about the price of well-being.

Plot

Alice, a divorced single mother and biologist, develops a new plant species for a flower fair. Its special feature: when cared for, the flower grants happiness to its owner. After tests, Alice takes a specimen home for her son, Joe, naming it "Little Joe." However, she soon suspects that this "happiness flower" strangely affects those who inhale its pollen, raising questions about the safety of her creation.

Why watch it

• Unique Idea: The concept of a plant promising happiness but hiding disturbing consequences creates a basis for analyzing manipulation.
• Psychological Tension: The film builds an atmosphere of paranoia, focusing on the heroine's attempts to unravel the mysterious influence of the flower.
• Ethics of Science: It raises questions about the limits of human intervention in nature and the unpredictable consequences of "improving" the human condition.
• Analysis of Artificial Happiness: The drama explores the appeal and dangers of artificial well-being, as well as the loss of authenticity of human emotions.

Themes

The film addresses the illusory nature of happiness, maternal care, and the responsibility of scientists. It challenges the concept of artificial well-being, showing how the pursuit of easy emotional comfort can lead to a loss of sincerity in feelings. It's a struggle with isolation as the heroine's suspicions are met with incomprehension. "Little Joe" serves as a metaphor for a society where idealized solutions for personal well-being can hide dark sides.

Editorial Opinion

"Little Joe" is a film that leaves a strong impression. It doesn't chase superficial effects but methodically builds tension, forcing the viewer to contemplate the nature of genuine happiness and its price. Jessica Hausner's direction is distinguished by attention to detail and the creation of a sterile but eerie aesthetic. It's an intelligent, reflective drama capable of keeping you on edge, offering an engaging plot and serious food for thought. Strong performances from Emily Beecham and the cast give the story emotional depth, making it memorable.