Monster (2023)

Set in Japan, the film unfolds through multiple perspectives, revealing the layers of a complex situation involving a young boy, Minato, his mother, and his teacher. The film’s strength lies in its structure, where the same events are revisited from different characters’ points of view. This approach allows the audience to see how misunderstandings and assumptions can escalate into crises. The performances, especially by Sakura Ando as the concerned mother, and Soya Kurokawa as Minato, capture the confusion and vulnerability of their characters. Ryuichi Sakamoto’s score, one of his final works before his passing, adds an atmospheric layer to the film, enhancing the emotional depth without overwhelming the narrative. Monster is not a fast-paced film, but its slow unfolding of events creates a powerful effect, leading to a thought-provoking conclusion. I love it for its deep and heavy effect on the viewer and the way it leaves you speechless at the end