The plot of the story is very complex and filled with mystery until the end. Not to mention that there are 3 perspectives being told so that we as viewers are confused about what is happening. The plot moves quickly, but the plot is to the point, so we are not allowed to look away from the screen for a moment. Coupled with the cinematography, it makes us feel more comfortable watching this film, and of course don't forget the neat background music. Of course, it is thanks to the collaboration of Kore-Eda, Sakamoto Yûji, and Sakamoto Ryuichi that this masterpiece was born. And also the actors who succeeded in playing their characters well. The "monster" is just a perspective.

Due to my complete lack of prior knowledge on the matter, I found every revelation and change of perspective to be extremely captivating. I could have spoiled myself the turning point just by watching the trailer or paying too much attention to the posters. However, I couldn’t help noticing several contrived plot points and characters’ behaviors that came across as unnatural, serving primarily to create artificial payoffs or simply to advance the narrative according to the agenda. Moreover, I found the ending somewhat lackluster, if not downright banal.

There’s a few moments in here that can feel contrived or forced (especially during the segment focussing on the teacher), but this is still an amazing film. Thematically it reminded me of _The Hunt_, while structurally it’s of course more similar to _Rashomon_. Every film that’s structured like that tends to play with context and perspective, and _Monster_ is no different. It’s very much a statement about the different flaws everyone makes when making sense of the world. Emotionally it’s also quite a rollercoaster thanks to all the different plot twists, in fact this is the type of puzzle box I could even see satisfying the Nolan fanboys. It’s fast paced but remains very accessible all the way through, while still rewarding those that pay attention to the details. Technically it’s of course fantastic, this is a Kore-eda film. I like that it still carries that peaceful, meditative feel of most of his other films, though there are a few times where some of the piano motifs reminded me too much of _The Social Network_. Overall, highly recommended for its gripping storytelling, precise direction, amazing performances (especially from the younger cast) and beautiful visuals. 8.5/10

The two kids’ performances are truly impressive! The layers of emotions intertwining and fluctuating really weigh on the heart. Thankfully, it gives a bright and uplifting ending. It’s about self-identity. In the first two parts of the story, the various problems of the adult world stem from the emotional conflicts of children who can’t accept their true selves. With elements of suspense, a three-act structure, and multiple perspectives, this story is much more engaging than Shoplifters. Shoplifters was honestly quite dull, while this one has a lot more dramatic flair. Now that I think about it, many great films focus on sexual orientation, but in reality, they’re just using it as a way to tell similar stories: people who can’t accept parts of themselves create conflicts in a world that forces them to conform. In the mix of sameness and difference, sexual orientation is just a shell often borrowed by films. This movie tells the story using elementary school kids as its subjects, while also exposing the ugliness of the adults around them. Whether it’s the loving mother, the abusive father, or the teachers, they all distort the children’s natural personalities. It’s a lot of satire, too. But if we’re talking about real monsters, I’d say the elementary school student reincarnated as Ando Sakura in Rebrish My Life is the real deal.

Look Closer, Feel Deeper. Monster, directed by the genius Hirokazu Kore-eda, is proof that truth ain't always what it seems. Like a riddle unwrapping itself, this movie (penned by Yuji Sakamoto, with a haunting score by Ryuichi Sakamoto) throws you into a small town where everyone’s got a piece of the puzzle, but nobody's got the full picture. Sure, it starts slow, very slow for some part. But trust me, that deliberate pace is the movie’s secret weapon. It lulls you in, only to punch you with how easily rumors can ruin lives. You see Saori Mugino (Sakura Andō) as the fierce mom, but then you see Mr. Hori (Eita Nagayama), the teacher, getting wrecked by accusations. It’s a harsh lesson: people judge fast, and a lie gets halfway around the world before the truth has a chance to get its pants on. What hits hardest? The hidden battles. Why couldn't Minato (Soya Kurokawa) just tell his mother? This film nails the silent struggles of kids, especially when they're figuring out who they are, like Minato and Yori (Hinata Hiiragi) grappling with their feelings in a world that might not understand. It's a raw look at how fear and external judgment, like those nasty words from Yori’s dad, can build walls even in loving homes. The ending is pure poetry. It's ambiguous, like a dream you can't quite remember, but utterly perfect. Were they running free, or was it a beautiful wish beyond this world? That’s the magic – it makes you feel their spirit, unbound, which is way more important than a tidy resolution. This movie teaches you to be like a cactus, tough enough to find your own water, your own truth, no matter what. A deep dive into what it means to be human, flaws and all. Seriously, if you dig movies that mess with your head in the best way, this is it.