This post is part of my movie-a-day challenge in which I will watch a film every day for 365 days. Today is Day 181! You can see all the posts for this challenge HERE. To see the original Movie-a-Day Challenge post, click HERE.
Hey there, friends!
So, I just finished watching “Monster,” directed by Kore-eda Hirokazu and let me tell you, it was quite the experience. This film’s a slow burn, a character study that unravels layer by layer, leaving you with more questions than answers (in the best way possible). The movie stars Sakura Andô, Eita Nagayama, and young Soya Kurokawa, whose performances, honestly, are just outstanding.
The story kicks off with Minato, this adorable little kid who suddenly starts acting off — secretive, withdrawn, the whole nine yards. His mom, Kanako, played brilliantly by Sakura Andô, notices these changes and, like any concerned parent, she’s on high alert. She marches straight to the school, ready to throw down with whoever messed with her cub. Things get intense when she finds out a teacher’s involved. Can you imagine? Rushing to the school, demanding answers—she’s a total powerhouse.
The teacher she confronts, played by the ever-talented Eita Nagayama, seems genuinely concerned too. Now, the cool part about this film is how it’s shown through the perspectives of the mom, the teacher, and Minato himself. Each viewpoint peels back layers of the story, kinda like peeling an onion.
It’s fascinating to see how their narratives intersect and the truth slowly emerges. It’s like peering through a kaleidoscope, each piece shifting the picture until a whole new truth emerges. It’s not just about pointing fingers or finding the ‘monster’; it’s more about understanding human complexities.
Sakura Andô is a force of nature on screen, perfectly capturing the desperation and fierce love of a mother trying to shield her child. And Eita Nagayama, as the teacher, totally makes you flip-flop between sympathizing with him and questioning his motives at every turn. And Soya Kurokawa, well, this kid is going places! He delivers a nuanced performance that goes way beyond his years and it’s simply captivating.
Without giving away too much (because seriously, you NEED to see this for yourself!), the movie explores heavy themes like abuse of power, the complexities of family, and the lengths we go to protect those we love. There are moments that will have you tearing up, but also scenes that are so beautifully tender they’ll leave a warm fuzz in your chest.
One thing I absolutely loved was how the film doesn’t spoon-feed you the ‘truth.’ It’s all about the gray areas, and it really makes you think about what makes someone a ‘monster.’ Is it their actions, their intentions, or how they’re perceived? 🤔
Now, if you’re into films that make you reflect and sit with your feelings for a bit, then “Monster” is a must-watch. It’s not your typical drama; it’s a thoughtful exploration of relationships and the moral dilemmas we face in life. Plus, the acting is phenomenal—like, these guys bring their A-game.
So, yeah, I absolutely loved it. It’s one of those movies that makes you ponder the fine line between right and wrong, and everything in between.
And that’s a wrap!
Cheers!
Roger