Family Ties In The Style Of Yorgos Lanthimos

 

INT. LIVING ROOM - DAY

The Keaton family sits in their perfectly arranged living room, their expressions stoic and their movements deliberate. ELYSE, STEVEN, ALEX, MALLORY, and JENNIFER, each wearing neutral-toned clothing, are engaged in an unnervingly polite conversation.

ELYSE: (in monotone) So, Steven, I was thinking we should have a family meeting to discuss our individual contributions to the household.

STEVEN: (calmly) That seems like a logical idea, Elyse. We should establish clear expectations for each family member's responsibilities.

ALEX: (robotically) Yes, Father. I believe an equitable division of labor is essential for maintaining order and harmony.

MALLORY: (with a hint of detachment) I concur. It is only fair that we all pull our weight in this domestic ecosystem.

JENNIFER: (with a forced smile) I shall fulfill my duties diligently, Mother and Father, as expected.

As the conversation continues, the tone remains eerily composed, lacking any genuine emotion or connection. The characters interact with an unsettling sense of detachment, their gestures and expressions almost robotic.

Suddenly, a guest arrives at the door - SKIPPY, Alex's quirky and animated friend.

SKIPPY: (with exaggerated enthusiasm) Hey, everyone! I brought over my collection of vintage puppets. Want to have a puppet show?

The Keaton family members exchange perplexed glances, their expressions displaying mild discomfort.

ELYSE: (calmly) Skippy, I appreciate your enthusiasm, but we must maintain our focus on our designated tasks.

SKIPPY: (confused) Oh, um, alright. Well, maybe some other time then.

Skippy exits the room, leaving behind an awkward silence. The Keatons sit in a rigid formation, their bodies almost frozen.

ALEX: (monotonously) Skippy lacks an understanding of our rigid structure, Mother. It is best to adhere to our predetermined routines.

MALLORY: (robotically) Yes, Alex. Deviations from the established order can disrupt the delicate balance we have achieved.

JENNIFER: (expressionless) Indeed, it is crucial that we conform to societal norms and suppress any tendencies toward spontaneity.

The unsettling atmosphere lingers, as if time itself has slowed down within the Keaton household.

As the scene fades out, the audience is left with a sense of unease, questioning the nature of familial relationships and the suffocating grip of conformity.

END OF SCENE