Spoilers Ahead: Uglies on Netflix
Warning: This article contains spoilers from Netflix’s adaptation of “Uglies.”
The Fate of Peris in Uglies
In the Netflix film adaptation of Scott Westerfeld’s 2005 dystopian novel “Uglies,” director McG offers insights into the altered storyline of Peris (played by Chase Stokes). The film introduces significant deviations from the original book, particularly in Peris’ character arc. Peris, the childhood friend of protagonist Tally Youngblood (Joey King), undergoes the typical transformation into a Pretty at the age of 16. However, unlike in the novel, the film takes a dramatic turn by further transforming Peris into a Special and tasking him with hunting down Tally, leading to a dramatic scene where he appears to fall to his death.
Director McG’s Insights
In an interview with Deadline, McG elaborated on the creative choice to make Peris a Special and the resulting impact on his relationship with Tally. He hinted at the ambiguity surrounding Peris’ fate after his perilous fall, drawing attention to the broader themes explored in the adaptation. McG highlighted the importance of audience engagement for the continuation of the “Uglies” narrative in a sequel, which would adapt “Pretties,” the next book in Westerfeld’s series.
McG emphasized the necessity of audience support for the franchise’s continuation, noting the challenges of film production and the financial investment required to bring the full story to life.
Implications of Peris’ Story Changes for Uglies and Its Future
A New Direction for Peris in Potential Sequels
In Westerfeld’s 2005 novel, Peris has a limited role after Tally leaves the city to find Shay and the Smoke. By transforming him into a Special, the film adaptation ensures his presence and development throughout the story. The film even depicts Peris committing a significant act—killing David’s father, Az (Jay DeVon Johnson)—an event that doesn’t occur in the novel.
10 Biggest Changes Netflix's Uglies Movie Makes To The Book
These changes make it impossible for Peris to assume his original role in “Pretties,” where he remains a Pretty and doesn’t murder anyone significant. McG’s remarks suggest Peris likely survived his fall, indicating a need to prove to Dr. Cable that his feelings for Tally surpass the brain alterations. If a sequel materializes, Peris’ character will undergo further substantial changes.
Our Perspective on Peris’ Story Changes
Execution Falls Short
While expanding Peris’ role in “Uglies” could have enriched the narrative, the execution was flawed. Peris, a key figure in Tally’s past and her desire to become a Pretty, functions better as a motivational catalyst rather than a constant presence. The expanded role diminishes Tally’s personal growth and introduces the overused trope of former friends turned adversaries, as seen in Peris and David’s (Keith Powers) rivalry.
Moreover, the character arc McG envisioned for Peris remains underdeveloped. Although McG suggests Peris’ love for Tally helps him overcome his programming, the film cuts this potential short by immediately redirecting the focus to a fight with David, followed by Peris’ fall into the fog. These changes do not serve Netflix’s “Uglies” well and may cause narrative challenges in a future adaptation of “Pretties.”
Source: Deadline
Uglies (2024)
- Sci-Fi
- Thriller
In a futuristic society where everyone undergoes compulsory cosmetic surgery at 16 to become "pretty," Tally eagerly awaits her transformation. However, when her friend goes missing, she embarks on a journey that challenges her beliefs about beauty, conformity, and rebellion, ultimately questioning the foundations of their world.
