Bong Joon Ho's Most Unfairly Overlooked Movie Is This 96%-Rated Detective Drama
It's perhaps the director's most poignant and disturbing work and a must-see for anyone who appreciates Korean cinema.
When people talk about Bong Joon Ho today, they all mention Parasite, the Oscar-winning film that transformed perceptions of Korean cinema. Some will mention the iconic Memories of Murder, while others will recall the futuristic Snowpiercer.
However, one movie in the director's filmography is often overlooked: Mother, a detective thriller he made ten years before Parasite.
What Is 'Mother' About?
A quiet woman lives in a small South Korean town. She earns a living through herbalism and acupuncture, but her main calling is caring for her 27-year-old son, Do-joon, who has the mind of a child.
One evening, after having a few drinks, Do-joon tries to befriend a schoolgirl who is walking home alone. The next day, the police arrest Do-joon for her murder.
The evidence appears compelling, and the lawyer is pessimistic. Do-joon himself seems unsure of what is going on. When the legal system proves ineffective, this seemingly frail woman takes the investigation into her own hands.
'Mother' Is a Unique Hybrid of the Detective, Farce, and Tragedy Genres
Mother is a perfect example of Bong Joon Ho's signature style. The director transforms a seemingly sentimental story about an elderly woman saving her son into a bizarre genre cocktail.
Here, a methodical investigation collides with unexpected hilarious episodes, and tragedy coexists with absurd farce.
Bong remains true to himself, offering viewers not so much a meta-detective story as a linear, even rigorous one that plays out according to familiar rules right up until the end credits.
Kim Hye-ja's Performance in 'Mother' Deserves All the Awards
The highlight of the show is Kim Hye-ja's performance as the mother. The actress, known in Korea for her TV dramas, delivers a performance that is rightfully considered one of the best in the history of Korean cinema.
Her character is contradictory, walking the fine line between a just Miss Marple-esque seeker of truth and a bloodthirsty monster. One moment she is the embodiment of maternal tenderness, the next, she is a cold-blooded avenger, ready to commit any crime.
Bong Joon Ho shoots his muse in merciless close-ups, and she passes the test with flying colors.
What Did Critics & Viewers Think of 'Mother'?
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Mother has 96% from critics and 89% from viewers on Rotten Tomatoes.
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On IMDb, the movie has a score of 7.7/10.
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On Letterboxd, Mother scored 4.2/5.0.
Where to Watch 'Mother'?
Mother is available to stream on Tubi, Kanopy and Philo.
