Monster by Hirokazu Koreeda

Introduction

Hirokazu Koreeda’s "Monster" is a film that intrigued me from the moment I saw its title and poster. The striking image of fire at the bottom, the captivating fonts, and the children’s happy faces in the center immediately drew me in. I didn’t watch the teaser or trailer, and I missed it at MAMI 2023. But based on my friends' glowing reviews, I couldn’t wait to see it—and it absolutely lived up to the hype.

Plot Summary

The movie revolves around Minato, a young boy dealing with the recent death of his mother. His withdrawn behavior concerns his father, who is struggling to connect with him. As Minato grapples with his grief, he encounters a new student, Yori, who is equally mysterious and troubled. Their budding friendship becomes the heart of the story, leading to a series of unsettling events.

The narrative structure of "Monster" is unique and complex. The film is divided into three distinct segments, each told from the perspective of different characters. The first segment follows Saori, Minato's concerned mother, who suspects something is wrong when Minato comes home with injuries. Her quest for the truth uncovers a web of school politics and hidden secrets.

The second segment shifts to Hori, Minato's teacher, who is initially portrayed as the villain. Through his eyes, we see a different side of the story, challenging our initial judgments. Hori is shown as a dedicated teacher dealing with his own set of issues, making us question who the real "monster" is.

The final segment is from the viewpoint of Minato and Yori. It reveals the complexities of their friendship and how their personal struggles intersect. This part of the film is particularly poignant, offering a deep dive into the psyche of the children and their coping mechanisms.

My Interpretation

What struck me the most about "Monster" was how it captures the complexity of reality. The movie starts off making sense, then quickly becomes confusing, only to make sense again, and so on. This cycle of clarity and confusion mirrors the real world where everyone has different perspectives and interpretations of events. Many films simplify stories for mass audiences, often depicting clear-cut good and bad characters. However, "Monster" dives into the gray areas, showing how interpretations can vary wildly. This nuanced portrayal is what impressed me the most.

The acting, especially by the children, is impeccable. Great character acting connects me to the story on a deeper level, and this film excels in that regard. Every cast member delivers a powerful performance, making the characters feel real and relatable.

The cinematography, direction, and editing are also top-notch. The use of natural light stands out, enhancing the film’s realistic feel. Koreeda’s direction is powerful, guiding the story with a delicate hand, while the editing stitches the narrative together seamlessly.

Koreeda’s storytelling in "Monster" is emotionally gripping and leaves you contemplating the various outcomes. He avoids portraying characters as simply good or bad, instead showing them as complex individuals making choices—sometimes right, sometimes wrong. This realistic depiction of human behavior is a hallmark of Koreeda's filmmaking.

The cinematography by Ryûto Kondô is beautiful, with natural light and soft colors creating a serene yet emotionally charged atmosphere. Scenes are bathed in cold blues and warm summer hues, framed with a documentary style that enhances the film’s authenticity. The gentle score by Ryuichi Sakamoto subtly guides the viewer’s emotions, adding depth to the film's poignant moments.

Conclusion

"Monster" by Hirokazu Koreeda is a film that stays with you. It’s a touching exploration of human emotions and relationships, told through the eyes of a young boy. The movie challenges norms and preconceived notions, making it a thought-provoking experience. I felt a great sense of satisfaction and happiness after watching it, which is why I watch movies in the first place. Good films, regardless of genre, bring me joy, and "Monster" is one I’ll revisit with future generations.