Uglies Debuts on Netflix but Struggles with Poor Reviews

The film adaptation of the young adult dystopian novel 'Uglies' debuted on Netflix on September 13, 2024, quickly becoming the second most-watched film on the platform during the week of September 9 to September 15, with 20.8 million views in its first three days. Despite its popularity, the film has received overwhelmingly negative reviews, holding a mere 19% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Critics have described it as a 'throwaway product' and 'instantly dated,' placing it among the worst-reviewed Netflix originals of the year alongside titles like 'Mother of the Brides' and 'Trigger Warning.' The story follows Tally Youngblood, portrayed by Joey King, in a dystopian society where cosmetic surgery is mandatory at age 16, transforming 'uglies' into 'pretties.' Tally's journey of rebellion against this societal norm is central to the narrative, which is based on the first book of a trilogy by Scott Westerfeld. The film's release has sparked discussions about its relevance and execution, especially given the original book's themes that resonate with contemporary issues of beauty standards and identity. Despite the film's poor critical reception, its initial viewership indicates a strong interest in the source material, which remains popular among young adult readers. As of the release date, 'Uglies' ranked No. 21 on Amazon's bestselling Teen & Young Adult book chart, highlighting a potential disconnect between audience interest and critical acclaim. Currently, Netflix has not announced any plans for sequels, leaving fans of the book series uncertain about the continuation of Tally's story on screen. The film's performance raises questions about the future of adaptations in the streaming landscape, particularly those based on beloved literary works.