A gritty South Korean thriller, Mother, has captured audience acclaim, achieving a remarkable 96% score on Rotten Tomatoes. Released in 2009, the film tells the story of a devoted middle-aged widow, portrayed by Kim Hye-ja, who lives with her 27-year-old son, played by Won-bin. Set in a small town, the narrative unfolds as the son, who struggles with learning difficulties, is accused of murdering a local girl. The mother embarks on a relentless quest to prove his innocence.
Directed by Bong Joon Ho, known for the acclaimed film Parasite (2019), Mother showcases the filmmaker’s signature style, blending elements of surrealism and violence while probing deep social issues. Audiences have hailed it as a “masterpiece,” with reviews praising its straightforward yet layered storytelling.
Fans on Rotten Tomatoes have expressed their admiration with comments highlighting the film’s compelling nature. One viewer stated, “Another Bong Joon-ho masterpiece. It feels simpler on the surface, yet it’s full of hidden layers.” They commended the director’s ability to weave social commentary into the narrative, exploring themes of love, justice, and truth without overwhelming the core story with excessive backstories or complex subplots.
Another review noted the film’s captivating pace and unexpected twists, stating, “The story keeps you glued to the screen from start to finish.” The portrayal of the mother character was described as a “masterstroke,” revealing profound emotional depth and intrigue. A third viewer remarked on the performances, calling them “marvelous” and emphasizing the film’s engaging plot and surprising conclusion.
The film is rated 15 and includes strong language, sexual content, and references to suicide, which may not be suitable for all audiences. Despite this, its acclaim persists, with a strong 89% approval rating from general audiences on Rotten Tomatoes.
For those interested in viewing Mother, it is available for purchase or rental on platforms such as Amazon Prime and Curzon. The film’s gripping narrative and powerful performances continue to resonate, making it a noteworthy piece of cinema that has earned its place in modern film discussions.
