Monster (2023)

Hirokazu Kore-eda’s Monster is a beautifully layered and emotionally gripping drama that keeps you questioning perspectives until the very end. The film masterfully weaves multiple viewpoints into a compelling narrative, slowly revealing the truth behind a seemingly simple conflict. With stunning cinematography, nuanced performances—especially from the young actors—and a hauntingly delicate score by the late Ryuichi Sakamoto, Monster is both heartbreaking and thought-provoking. While the film's deliberate pacing may test the patience of some viewers, its emotional payoff is undeniably rewarding. Kore-eda’s ability to explore themes of misunderstanding, societal pressures, and childhood innocence makes this a deeply resonant experience. Not quite reaching the heights of Shoplifters, but still an exceptional and moving film that lingers in your mind long after the credits roll. Would highly recommend to fans of introspective dramas!