Riceboy Sleeps

Watch it.... That's all I have to say, just WATCH it. This film connects deeper to immigrants and shows the struggles of an immigrant boy and his mother. The movie shows the boy's childhood struggles and teenage struggles in a subtle/honest yet beautifully shown. This masterpiece also shows the beautiful bond of a mother and son in the most true yet spectacular manner. Not only the story and screenplay's spectacular, but also the artistic side of films. The vivid tones set an intimate and cozy/warm feeling that enhances the relationships and emotions in the movie. In my opinion, this film is perfect in every manner; art of cinema, emotions, dialogue, acting, wonderful cinematography, and much more. MUST WATCH!

This isn't an action or drama movie. It's a realistic down to earth movie. It's more then just an immigrant family trying to adapt to life in a new country. It goes deeper then that. It's about a Mother's love for her son. It made me reflect back to my childhood and my mother trying to take care of me.

I even got a bit emotional watching this movie and that does not happen much. When the mother has to face the truth about her own mortality she still tries to help her son find his roots and himself.

I enjoyed the music and story line and I would not change one thing about how this movie was made. At first I was not even sure I would like this movie but I was shockingly surprised. I will watch it again.

I had to write this review, because I was a bit surprised to read that some reviews said the movie didn't go deep enough? That the movie didn't deliver? This movie was só much better than I expected! I liked the fact that the story was divided in three parts and if you have lived in the nineties, it's nice to recognize the clothes and other small details from that time. The characters were very realistic and very well played! Since I am an andopted Korean living in Europe myself, some of the things the boy did and felt were very recognisable. Although the story contains some really heavy issues, the director succeeds in keeping things 'light' by not overdoing heavy dramatic scenes. Just raw authentic emotions. Some stories inside the story of the movie were pure poetry and full of wisdom. I did cry a couple of times because of the beautiful way the movie shows how we are all connected to our roots.

Riceboy Sleeps, a film featuring So Young (Choi Seung-yoon) and her adolescent son, Dong Hyun (Ethan Hwang), elegantly portrays the challenges and triumphs associated with immigration. The narrative unfolds as So Young, a single mother, relocates to Canada in the 1990s, seeking a brighter future for herself and her son. However, racial discrimination, cultural conflicts, and personal hardships mar their journey. The escalating tensions in their relationship reach a pivotal moment, prompting a confrontation with their past and a quest for mutual understanding and healing.

While I perceive the portrayal as authentic, it is those who have endured similar experiences who can best attest to its veracity. The performances by the lead actors are compelling, effectively capturing the nuances of cultural identity and the dynamics of a mother-son relationship. Riceboy Sleeps is characterised by its prolonged shots and visually arresting scenes, fostering a contemplative viewing experience. The film delves into themes of identity, loss, and family dynamics, universal aspects of the human experience.

Despite receiving acclaim and numerous accolades, Riceboy Sleeps may not resonate with all audiences. The director's methodical storytelling approach may not appeal to some viewers, and the film's ambiguous ending could be a source of discontent for others. The movie's emphasis on subdued emotions and nonverbal communication might pose interpretative challenges.

It is important to note that Riceboy Sleeps is not a conventionally entertaining film. However, those seeking a thoughtfully crafted drama will appreciate its sensitive portrayal of the immigrant experience, the excellence of the performances, and the film's visually stunning cinematography.

One of my favorite Director ever is Richard Linklater. And watching this movie gave me vibes of the old Linklater movies. Though, this film is much more concise with an arc.

The movie is split into 3 part with 3 different moods. Begins as a coming of age story. Has the digital noise with a 4:3 aspect ratio. Colors are muted. And i thought at first it was just an artistic choice(being that it takes place in the 90's). However, it plays into the storytelling.

The things we talk about from our childhood after a certain age gets fuzzy. With every emotion turned up. The happy moments seem like the happiest one has ever been. While the sad moments are the worst.

The 2nd third, The colors and contrast changes. The cinematography is cleaner and warmer. But, still the aspect ratio is the same and still feels like 90s film with a slightly bigger budget. And it shows how the age of adolesence is quite a life turning experience. And the risks of escapism.

The final 3rd is much more modern. With a full screen ratio. And beautiful sweeping shots.

All in all. An amazing movie. Very well acted. The emotion is real and each moment with the characters is empathetic. Even some of the side characters are very endearing. A wonderful experience. And i recommend this to any fan of movies.

9/10.