The dystopian young adult novel “Uglies” by Scott Westerfeld is coming to Netflix on September 13, 2024, nearly two decades after its publication. The film adaptation brings Westerfeld’s vision of a society where physical perfection is mandated by law to life.
Actress Joey King leads the film as Tally Youngblood, a role she has wanted since reading the novel at age 11. “Getting to play Tally is such an amazing feeling,” said King. “These books meant so much to me growing up.”
In Westerfeld’s world, everyone undergoes an operation at age 16 that makes them surgically beautiful, or “pretty.” But Tally’s friend Shay flees before the procedure, prompting Tally to search for her. This journey exposes hidden truths about their enforced conformity.
While largely following the plot, some changes were made for the screen. For example, the inclusion of Thoreau’s “Walden” adds literary rebellion. And the Rangers and Smokies, two book groups, were combined to streamline the story. Another alteration involves the character Peris undergoing a more dramatic arc.
The film modernizes some technical details but keeps hoverboards central. Aesthetic changes were made to limited tech usage in the rebel community called the Smoke.
“It’s not trying to condemn or glorify surgery,” said actress Brianne Tju. “It’s about having the freedom to choose.”
King, also an executive producer, pursued the role for years. “I had huge dreams to play Tally, and now not only am I old enough, but I’m actually doing it,” she said.
The ensemble cast includes Laverne Cox, Chase Stokes, and Keith Powers. Both King and Tju praised bringing the beloved story to life while noting the challenges of certain scenes.
While no sequels are confirmed, the rich source material and fanbase leave open the possibility of adapting more of the series. Critics say “Uglies” questions of beauty, conformity and choice will resonate with today’s audiences.
