Uglies

'Uglies' is a science fiction action-adventure film directed by McG. It is based on the popular 2005 novel of the same name by Scott Westerfeld, with a screenplay adapted by Jacob Forman, Vanessa Taylor, and Whit Anderson. The film was released worldwide on Netflix on September 13, 2024.

The story is set in a dystopian future where the government controls all aspects of society. At the age of 16, every teenager undergoes a mandatory surgery that transforms them into "pretties", aligning them with the beauty standards of the time. This procedure is seen as a rite of passage into adulthood.

The protagonist, Tally Youngblood, is eagerly awaiting her 16th birthday and the chance to undergo her transformation. However, she soon uncovers dark secrets about the true nature of her society, leading her to question everything she once believed.

Joey King stars as Tally Youngblood in 'Uglies', alongside Brianne Tju, Keith Powers, Chase Stokes, Laverne Cox, and Juan Luis Castellanos. The project was announced in 2006 soon after the release of the book but was abandoned until 2020, when Joey King was set to star. The movie's production has faced delays, but it's finally set to premiere in 2024, with mixed initial reviews from critics.