The Lobster (2015)

Detailed Summary

Introduction to the Dystopian Society

In a dystopian future, single people are taken to a hotel where they must find a romantic partner within 45 days or be transformed into an animal of their choice. The protagonist, David (Colin Farrell), recently separated from his wife, checks into the hotel with his dog, who was once his brother.

Life at the Hotel

At the hotel, guests undergo a series of activities designed to promote couple formation, such as dances, shooting practice, and awkward group conversations. The hotel’s manager (Olivia Colman) explains the rules, emphasizing the importance of finding a partner with similar defining traits, like a limp or frequent nosebleeds.

The Hunt and Loners

David befriends two other guests: a limping man (Ben Whishaw) and a lisping man (John C. Reilly). As time runs out, David participates in hunts where the guests hunt down Loners, a group of single people living in the woods. Each captured Loner extends a guest’s stay by one day.

David’s Desperation and Deception

Facing imminent transformation, David pretends to share traits with a heartless woman (Angeliki Papoulia) to become her partner. However, his plan fails when she tests his emotions by killing his dog. David retaliates by transforming her into an animal.

Escape to the Woods

David flees to the woods and joins the Loners, led by a stern leader (Léa Seydoux). In contrast to the hotel’s enforced coupling, the Loners strictly forbid romantic relationships. Despite this, David falls in love with a short-sighted woman (Rachel Weisz).

Secret Relationship and Plan

David and the short-sighted woman develop a secret sign language to communicate their love. They plan to escape together, but the Loner leader discovers their plan and blinds the woman as punishment.

The Ambiguous Ending

In the film’s final scene, David and the now-blind woman sit in a diner. David heads to the restroom with a steak knife, implying he might blind himself to share her disability and ensure their compatibility. The film ends ambiguously, leaving his fate and decision unclear.

Movie Ending

The ending of “The Lobster” is intentionally ambiguous. David’s decision to blind himself or not remains unknown, challenging viewers to reflect on the film’s themes of societal pressure and genuine connection.

Are There Post-Credits Scenes?

No, “The Lobster” does not have any post-credits scenes.

Type of Movie

This film is a black comedy, dystopian science fiction, and romance, blending dark humor with thought-provoking social commentary.

Cast

• Colin Farrell as David
• Rachel Weisz as the Short-Sighted Woman
• Léa Seydoux as the Loner Leader
• Ben Whishaw as the Limping Man
• John C. Reilly as the Lisping Man
• Olivia Colman as the Hotel Manager
• Angeliki Papoulia as the Heartless Woman

Film Music and Composer

The score, composed by Johnnie Burn, features a mix of classical music and original compositions, enhancing the film’s surreal and unsettling atmosphere.

Filming Locations

• Ireland: The majority of the film was shot in various locations in County Kerry and Dublin, utilizing the lush landscapes to create the contrast between the oppressive hotel and the liberating woods.

Awards and Nominations

• Cannes Film Festival: Won the Jury Prize.
• Academy Awards: Nominated for Best Original Screenplay.
• BAFTA Awards: Nominated for Best Original Screenplay and Outstanding British Film.

Behind the Scenes Insights

• Colin Farrell gained 40 pounds for his role as David.
• The film’s unique tone and aesthetic were meticulously crafted by director Yorgos Lanthimos, who encouraged improvisation and naturalistic performances from the cast.

Inspirations and References

• Social Commentary: The film draws on themes of societal pressure to conform and the absurdity of rigid social norms, reflecting on modern relationships and individuality.

Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes

There are no widely known alternate endings or significant deleted scenes for “The Lobster.” The film’s ambiguity is a deliberate choice by the director.

Book Adaptations and Differences

“The Lobster” is an original screenplay written by Yorgos Lanthimos and Efthymis Filippou, not based on a book. Its originality lies in its unique concept and execution.

Memorable Scenes and Quotes

Key Scenes

• David’s Arrival at the Hotel: Setting the stage for the film’s bizarre premise.
• Dog Killing Incident: A shocking turn that defines David’s desperation.
• The Hunt: Highlighting the absurdity and brutality of the hotel’s rules.
• The Blinding of the Short-Sighted Woman: A pivotal and tragic moment.

Iconic Quotes

• “Now have you thought of what animal you’d like to be if you end up alone?” – Hotel Manager
• “We dance alone. That’s why we only play electronic music.” – Loner Leader
• “I hope she dies right away. On second thought, I hope she suffers quite a bit before she dies. I don’t know if that makes me a horrible person or not.” – David

Easter Eggs and Hidden Details

• The animals seen in the background of several scenes subtly reference the fate of former hotel guests who failed to find a partner.
• The Lobster itself, David’s chosen animal, symbolizes his desire for longevity and his struggle with societal expectations.

Trivia

• The film was shot in chronological order.
• The Lobster is Yorgos Lanthimos’s first English-language film.
• Rachel Weisz, who plays the short-sighted woman, narrates parts of the film.

Why Watch?

“The Lobster” offers a darkly comedic and thought-provoking look at love and societal norms. Its unique premise, strong performances, and distinctive style make it a standout in modern cinema.

Director’s Other Movies

• Dogtooth (2009)
• Alps (2011)
• The Killing of a Sacred Deer (2017)
• The Favourite (2018)

Recommended Films for Fans

• Her (2013)
• Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004)
• The Handmaid’s Tale (2017)
• Anomalisa (2015)