'Uglies' Review: Netflix's YA Dystopian Adaptation Starring Joey King Feels Instantly Dated

A Shallow Attempt at a Meaningful Dystopia

Netflix's latest young adult adaptation, "Uglies," based on the popular book series by Scott Westerfeld, has arrived with a thud. The film, starring Joey King as Tally Youngblood, attempts to tackle themes of beauty standards, conformity, and individuality in a dystopian society. However, it falls short in almost every aspect, delivering a shallow and outdated adaptation that fails to resonate with modern audiences. The premise of "Uglies" is intriguing: in a futuristic society where everyone undergoes surgery at the age of 16 to become "pretty," Tally grapples with the decision of whether or not to conform. The film tries to explore the dangers of valuing beauty above all else and the importance of embracing one's individuality. But these themes are handled in a heavy-handed and simplistic manner, lacking the depth and nuance that made the original books so compelling.

Joey King's Performance Falls Flat

Joey King, known for her roles in "The Kissing Booth" and "The Act," gives a lackluster performance as Tally. Her portrayal lacks the charisma and rebellious spirit that made Tally such a beloved character in the books. King's delivery is often wooden and unconvincing, and she fails to connect with the audience on an emotional level.

Dated Visuals and Lackluster World-Building

The visual effects in "Uglies" are unimpressive, with the futuristic city of New Pretty Town looking like a cheap imitation of "The Hunger Games" and other YA dystopian adaptations. The film's world-building is equally lackluster, failing to create a believable or engaging setting for the story. The result is a film that feels superficial and uninspired.

Missed Opportunities and Wasted Potential

"Uglies" had the potential to be a thought-provoking and relevant exploration of beauty standards and individuality. However, the film's shallow execution, uninspired visuals, and weak performances squander this opportunity. It is a missed opportunity that leaves audiences feeling disappointed and unfulfilled.

Conclusion: A Forgettable Adaptation

"Uglies" is a disappointing adaptation that fails to live up to the promise of its source material. The film's outdated themes, lackluster visuals, and weak performances make it a forgettable experience that is unlikely to leave a lasting impression on audiences. If you're looking for a meaningful and captivating dystopian story, look elsewhere.