Films sharing characteristics with Yorgos Lanthimos’s “The Lobster” often explore themes of societal pressure, conformity, and the absurdity of romantic relationships. These films frequently employ dark humor, surreal settings, and deadpan delivery to examine the human condition within rigid social structures. Dystopian or allegorical elements are often present, creating a sense of unease and prompting reflection on individual autonomy within established norms. For example, films like “Dogtooth” and “The Killing of a Sacred Deer,” also directed by Lanthimos, showcase similar stylistic and thematic approaches.
Such narratives offer valuable insights into the anxieties surrounding relationships, identity, and the search for belonging in contemporary society. By presenting exaggerated or absurd scenarios, these films can provoke critical thinking about the pressures individuals face to conform to expectations. The emergence of this particular subgenre reflects a growing cultural interest in exploring the darker side of human interaction and the often-uncomfortable realities of social constructs. This exploration can be traced back to literary and cinematic precedents exploring existentialism and the absurdist tradition.
