Movies completed in 2023

Movies completed (in order of rating) with links to posts/comments.

penel Jan 1, 2023
204 Titles Loves
0% Watched
Report
Sort By: Author's Order
penel's Rating
Your Rating
  • Home Sweet Home

    101. Home Sweet Home

    Chinese Movie - 2021

    7.5

    Ambitious and intriguing premise, with an eerie cinematography, atmospheric music and a great cast.
    Unfortunately, it had a confusing plot, incoherent editing, some trying-too-hard  twists and a too far-fetched outcome.
    Not bad, but it could have been so much better...
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/jBpk0ij

  • Into the Faraway Sky

    102. Into the Faraway Sky

    Japanese Movie - 2007

    7.5

    "Bees aren't built to fly but somehow they manage it. Know why that is? Because they think they can."

    A whimsical fairytale-like story, full of eccentric characters, adorable children and wonderful Hokkaido scenery.
    Too long and too perplexing, but the coming of age and children friendship plot, as well as some cleverly put metaphors, some peculiar choices for the music, costumes and sets, made this an interesting watch.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/wovOrUE

  • Bokura wa aruku, tada soredake

    103. Bokura wa aruku, tada soredake

    Japanese Movie - 2009

    7.5

    An emotional road movie with minimal plot and dialogues, but rich in encounters and silent moments.
    Ando Sakura really shone through the intimate filming of this lonesome journey.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/RV1yQcP

  • Parking

    104. Parking

    Taiwanese Movie - 2008

    7.5

    Set in a one night's time frame and filmed with intoxicating lighting and colouring of the busy streets of nocturnal Taipei, with an absurd, unpredictable plot and a quirky mosaic portrait of various characters that are misfits and petty criminals (quite usual for Chung Mong Hong's works) but most of all trapped, unhappy people, even if it doesn't really have a clear storyline or belong in a specific genre, it definitely is an interesting experience, like a free-verse modern poem rich in images and emotions.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/2e8DziA 

  • Convenience Story

    105. Convenience Story

    Japanese Movie - 2022

    7.5

    An eccentric, wild ride between fantasy and reality, unspoken desires and compromises, with some acidic remarks on the movie industry and struggling artists, some cleverly embedded comic-sarcastic scenes and a few caustic philosophical questions.
    Revolving around the insecurities, as well as the need of inspiration and affirmation caused by a writer's block, and presented in a dark, bold and unorthodox way, this might not be for everyone, but it surely is a wacky, surreal experience.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/jBOe2ij

  • A Far Shore

    106. A Far Shore

    Japanese Movie - 2022

    7.5

    Brutally honest and painfully real, this is the sad, infuriating story of an underage mother trying to survive and raise her child in the midst of her harsh reality of poverty, violence, abuse and sexual exploitation, at the ugly side of modern Okinawa.
    A difficult, heartbreaking watch.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/vLgZKix

  • Green Fish

    107. Green Fish

    Korean Movie - 1997

    7.5

    A deeply sad, character-centered story from auteur filmmaker Lee Chang Gong in his debut movie, with a stellar cast and many of the distinctive characteristics he mastered with his next more refined titles.
    This is a neo-noir gangster melodrama that tells the story of a naive, straightforward young man and his journey from innocence to corruption and betrayal, trapped in a changing unfamiliar world.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/QepnPc8

  • SF8: Empty Body

    108. SF8: Empty Body

    Korean Special - 2020, 1 episode

    7.5

    Part of an anthology of sci fi stories, this short film was a dark, sad, thought-provoking (and a bit confusing) story about suicide, grief, letting go and moving on after the tragic loss of a child.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/1VNrEVTZ

  • Another Way

    109. Another Way

    Korean Movie - 2017

    7.5

    Bleak, gloomy, laconic and very depressing, this is story of two lonely, wounded and resigned people.
    Filmed mostly at an impressive snowy landscape with a frozen lake, using pictures instead of words, it tackles the issues of dysfunctional families, giving up on life and suicide pacts.
    Watch with caution.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/dLYnJTB

  • You & Me & Me

    110. You & Me & Me

    Thai Movie - 2023

    7.5

    A romantic coming of age story from two twin directors about two identical twin sisters, “You” and “Me” namely, back in the year 1999.
    Nostalgic, bittersweet and sometimes cheerful and very cute, it depicts how the special bonding of their sisterhood, family and first love feelings are tested as these two teens step into adolescence.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/6qNlyFl

  • Switch

    111. Switch

    Korean Movie - 2023

    7.5

    Heartwarming and cute family dramedy about alternative universe, second chances in life and character development.
    Though its story is predictable, with nothing new to add in this genre, it still is an enjoyable, relaxing watch thanks to the great cast and especially the kid actors, Park So- Yi and Kim Jun, with their vivid and natural performances.
    Time well-spent.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/qLlWrcp

  • As Tears Go By

    112. As Tears Go By

    Hong Kong Movie - 1988

    7.5

    Auteur's Wong Kar Wai debut film isn't exactly a masterpiece, but flashes of his talent depicting superbly his characters, full of loneliness, longing, and desperation, and his well-known neon cinematography style with his distinctive melancholic vibes are already evident in this violent gangster/melo romance film.
    With outstanding performances from Andy Lau and Maggie Cheung as the main leads, this story of love and friendship is a rewarding watch for Wong Kar Wai's fans.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/RKyWniP

  • Hokusai

    113. Hokusai

    Japanese Movie - 1953

    7.5

    This short black & white film is a biopic of the life and art of Katsushika Hokusai, one of Japan's greatest artists, ukiyo-e painter and print-maker of landscape and floral art, erotic prints, caricatures and realistic everyday life scenes of the Edo period.
    Though it would have been more captivating if it was filmed in colour, thus his beautiful prints
    would have been given full life, it still is an interesting watching experience and introduction to his work.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/dLejkiB

  • Ground Zero

    114. Ground Zero

    Korean Movie - 2021

    7.5

    https://youtu.be/gS7UiBdAqfY
    Seven minutes with Ma Dong Seok kicking and punching whoever comes his way!

  • What She Likes

    115. What She Likes

    Japanese Movie - 2021

    7.5

    An interesting, unusual coming-of-age and coming-out story about two high school classmates: Jun, a  closeted gay and Sae, a closeted fujoshi.
    Though it had its flaws, such as a lot of stereotyping, a conveniently manga-ish approach of some issues, some far-fetched arcs and solutions and a heavy entertainment orientation, it managed to leave a good impression, mainly due to Kamio Fuju's convincing performance and charms.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/jLJboFj

  • Escape from Mogadishu

    116. Escape from Mogadishu

    Korean Movie - 2021

    7.5

    High on adrenaline, heavy on politics, this based on true events story is a tense political and survival thriller with a good production and great veterans cast.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/10rxm2Tb

  • Boy

    117. Boy

    Japanese Movie - 1969

    7.5

    Based on true events, this is a heartbreaking story of childhood innocence shattered by a highly dysfunctional family trying to survive in post-war Japan.
    A scathing social commentary on the traumas caused by severe domestic violence and emotional abuse, a tragic but absorbing confrontation about human condition.
    With a brilliant use of colour versus black & white filming, as a means to depict the Boy's mental and emotional state, and a straightforward, genuine performance from Tetsuo Abe, this is  definitely a difficult and thought-provoking watch.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/wLL4QhE

  • The Legend & Butterfly

    118. The Legend & Butterfly

    Japanese Movie - 2023

    7.5

    A historical epic about the life, rise and fall of warlord Oda Nobunaga, heavily focused on his marriage and love story with lady Nohime.
    Lavish costumes, rich settings, impressive music and cinematography, and an undeniable chemistry between Kimura Takuya and Ayase Haruka in a not-so-accurate story based on one of the most recognizable historical figures of Japan.
    With characters that could have been fleshed out better, a romance that could have been less subtle, and sequences showing the whys and hows of Oda’s transformation that could have been more informative and less disjoined, it was a movie with a unique approach worth watching.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/1e6VwiR

  • Mondays

    119. Mondays

    Japanese Movie - 2022

    7.5

    A quirky, absurd and fast-paced story about an office groundhog week, with all its members stuck in an endless time-loop.
    Though a bit confusing in the beginning, the cleverly written script, that partly unfolds all those members involvement and reactions, made this chaotic but unique approach an interesting, refreshing watch.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/4OWdOHA

  • Pure White

    120. Pure White

    Japanese Movie - 2017

    7.5

    A tender, affectionate and realistic depiction about a girl's -with a slight cognitive disability- first love story.
    With a great photography of the beautiful snowy landscapes of Toyama prefecture and a subtle, convincing performance from Sato Miyuki, this is a heartwarming, bittersweet watch.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/RONdnTP

  • Silent Rain

    121. Silent Rain

    Japanese Movie - 2020

    7.5

    Silent, as its title indicates, subtle, mellow and slow-paced, this indie jmovie tells the story of two wounded -one physically and one mentally disabled- and lonely people.
    Though the characters' approach of their new reality and the lack of communication was too frustrating and unrealistic sometimes, it helped with the intentional mundane, melancholic tone of the film, but made it feel longer than it actually was.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/1zQ5pocr

  • The Perfect Fishplate

    122. The Perfect Fishplate

    Korean Movie - 2005

    7.5

    A dark, twisted black comedy/horror short film about the lengths of devotion in achieving the perfect dish.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/jmzEoij

  • Faith

    123. Faith

    Korean Movie - 2023

    7.5

    Impressive camerawork and music in a short film that could've easily been a trailer for a full length movie.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/1160YHR

  • The Host

    124. The Host

    Korean Movie - 2006

    7.5

    The monstrous giant mutated squid was only the excuse for this bizarre but very timely social commentary (full of criticism, sarcasm, black comedy elements and allegories), as well as the tragic story of a dysfunctional family.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/LQb8W0hM

  • Colorless

    125. Colorless

    Japanese Movie - 2020

    7.5

    An indie film depicting the sad, toxic love story of a manipulative, sexist insecure young man and a mentally and emotionally broken young woman who's been mistreated, abused and taken advantage of by every man in her life.
    An interesting -though not easy- watch, especially thanks to Ishikawa Ruka's demanding and convincing performance.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/X522kt8

  • Call for Dreams

    126. Call for Dreams

    Japanese Movie - 2018

    7.5

    Looks like one of one of Wong Kar Wai 's works with its neo-noir vibes, but it's not.
    Confusing storytelling and structure -probably on purpose- mixing reality, dreams and parallel timelines.
    But, its surrealistic, hypnotic visuals and rich nocturnal lighting make it an immersive, acid dreaming watching experience.
    Only for arthouse film lovers.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/eZleJFy

  • Ballerina

    127. Ballerina

    Korean Movie - 2023

    7.5

    A predictable revenge story in a satisfying, visually stunning execution.
    Simple and fast-paced plot, with minimal dialogues and tiny bits of the protagonists' background story, videoclip vibes in its music score, neo-noir colouring and cinematography, tense, violent, with beautifully choreographed fight scenes with guns, knives and fists.
    Not an unforgettable masterpiece, but an entertaining action thriller with a great performance from Jeon Jong Seo.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/QE553h8

  • The Moon

    128. The Moon

    Korean Movie - 2023

    7.5

    This new kmovie with astronauts and outer space was very much anticipated but, unfortunately, it wasn't on par with my high expectations.
    Though technically stunning, with high quality production, impressive special effects and cinematography, and a star-studded cast, the story was weak and occasionally too far-fetched, and its elements (mostly melodrama, nationalism and personal atonement) were unbalanced.
    Thankfully, the cast -especially  Sol Kyung Gu and Doh Kyung Soo- did a good job, even if their characters weren't perfectly fleshed out.
    Overall, a decent sci-fi title if only for the main leads and the visuals.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/dqAzwHB

  • The Breaking Ice

    129. The Breaking Ice

    Chinese Movie - 2023

    7.5

    An arthouse, slow-paced film with laconic storytelling, meaningful moments of silence and wonderful cinematography of the snowy city of Yanji and its mountainous suburbs.
    With an intimate and delicate approach it gives small bits of the three main leads' background story, their loneliness, depression and drifting emotions.
    Their fragile friendship as well as their special bonding and entanglement work as the driving force for their emotional transition: through healing each other they eventually start healing themselves.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/QEmyjT8

  • Water Flowing to the Sea

    130. Water Flowing to the Sea

    Japanese Movie - 2023

    7.5

    Delicate and bittersweet story of the trauma caused by dysfunctional families and immature parents and how their mistakes can affect the life and mentality of their wounded children.
    Though the ending felt totally out of place, overall it was an enjoyable healing slice-of-life film.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/jnbO2Ij

  • Concrete Utopia

    131. Concrete Utopia

    Korean Movie - 2023

    7.5

    Bleak and disturbingly realistic dystopian/survival story about the darkness and cruelty of human nature, the morality (or lack of) and desperation during disaster and chaos.
    With a high production value and a solid cast, this was a gripping watch, even though there could have been more depth in the storytelling and the characters.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/QExWVI8

  • Ride On

    132. Ride On

    Chinese Movie - 2023

    7.5

    Bittersweet and a bit sappy tribute to the stuntman and comedian Jackie Chan of our childhood.
    The story isn't much, feels uneven and predictable, but Jackie's chemistry with his horse Red Hare and his smooth, experienced performance made this an enjoyable and very familiar watching experience.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/E1RDrF3

  • The Contact

    133. The Contact

    Korean Movie - 1997

    7.5

    Nostalgic, bittersweet romance/melodrama story from an era when radio was still a thing and internet was just becoming a means of communication.
    Slow-paced, full of yearning, restrained emotions and actions and unrequited feelings, it may be a bit confusing and frustrating some times, but the wonderful cinematography of nocturn Seoul and the remarkable performance of Jeon Do Yeon, who carries the movie, in this debut film of hers are reasons enough to give this a try.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/ZKw0XTx

  • Third Time Lucky

    135. Third Time Lucky

    Japanese Movie - 2022

    7.0

    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/6wQekfl
    A crisp story of a lonely woman trying to find human connection and healing from her traumas and emotional holes.
    Peculiar storytelling, quiet and mundane filming, and slow pacing through bits of her, and the characters around her, life that could have been more engaging and consistent, never fully answering all questions imposed.

  • Goodbye Cruel World

    136. Goodbye Cruel World

    Japanese Movie - 2022

    7.0

    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/EVY8Zi3
    A violent, bloody yakuza heist story and its aftermath: take the money or lose the money, betray or be betrayed, kill or be killed.
    Great visuals, editing and music, a bit too long duration and a rather messy script.
    Only for yakuza genre lovers.

  • Jung_E

    137. Jung_E

    Korean Movie - 2023

    7.0

    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/jBAopFj
    Ambitious beginning with visually stunning combat scenes and dystopian scenery, but lack of depth in this unfocused, thin story and its messages.
    Not bad, but it could have been much more entertaining if they focused more on the AI ethics rather than the cringeworthy forced humor.
    Kim Hyun Joo was fantastic, even though her role wasn't explored enough.

  • River of First Love

    138. River of First Love

    Japanese Movie - 2004

    7.0

    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/2e3egCA
    A slow-paced story of childhood friends' love, with minimal dialogues and heavily depending on the rural landscapes beauty.

  • Cafe Funiculi Funicula

    139. Cafe Funiculi Funicula

    Japanese Movie - 2018

    7.0

    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/EVrW4h3
    An intriguing time-travel premise that could have been much better if used in a drama concept.
    The acting and the almost stage-play filming were good, but the subplots felt unrelated and, though there were some touching moments here and there, overall something was missing.

  • Life Is Beautiful

    141. Life Is Beautiful

    Korean Movie - 2022

    7.0

    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/0kv8jhN
    A bittersweet road-trip musical with some powerful and heart-warming moments, some infuriating ones and a lot of cringy and extravagant music parts that most of the times felt out of place.
    I would have enjoyed it much more without those.

  • Go Go 70s

    142. Go Go 70s

    Korean Movie - 2008

    7.0

    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/4aRrzruB
    Nostalgic and uplifting, with a fantastic Shin Min Ah and a cute, young Cho Seung Woo.
    A biopic about The Devils, a Korean rock band, Singing and dancing rock'n'roll, with a not-so-subtle political subtext about the struggles and acts of defiance of young people against the repressive authorities.

  • The Peach Tree

    143. The Peach Tree

    Korean Movie - 2012

    7.0

    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/LOxwJ2u9
    A peculiar story with a below average delivery that would have been a flop if not for Cho Seung Woo and Ryu Deok Hwan.

  • Island Keeper

    144. Island Keeper

    Chinese Movie - 2021

    7.0

    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/158pEtR
    Based on true events, this biopic tells the story of Wang Jicai and his devoted wife, who spent more than three decades on Kaishan island, a tiny rocky island serving as a Militia post for navigation and meteorological observations.
    Though the patriotic element was more enhanced than necessary, the realistic depiction of their poor living conditions, their endless battles against typhoons and rainstorms throughout the years, as well as their strong bonding made this film an interesting watch.

  • Our New Life

    145. Our New Life

    Chinese Movie - 2021

    7.0

    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/BVDejCE
    An anthology movie of five stories about family and friendship, bonding, arguing and making amends, as well as character development, realising one's dreams and the pursuit of a better life.
    It would have been much better if the comic elements were less pronounced.

  • 20-Year-Old Soul

    146. 20-Year-Old Soul

    Japanese Movie - 2022

    7.0

    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/dXQ6kcB
    Bitter-sweet, inspiring but too predictable and 'noisy'.
    Definitely not the best work of Kamio Fuju (he did put a lot of effort but he was a mismatch).
    But, knowing this is based on a true story and a real person, it hits different and most of its mishaps can be overlooked.

  • OMG! Oh My Girl

    147. OMG! Oh My Girl

    Thai Movie - 2022

    7.0

    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/perkZcP
    A bitter-sweet, and in parts very frustrating, love-story between two friends.
    The comedy parts were not always successful and the ending disappointing, but it had a few nice, cute moments.

  • Blue

    148. Blue

    Japanese Movie - 2003

    7.0

    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/XVRKEc8
    A coming of age and a sad unrequited love story between two school girls.
    Slow-paced, with long shots and minimal dialogues, words & feelings left unspoken, this was an intense watch, full of melancholy and yearning.

  • Taipei Exchanges

    149. Taipei Exchanges

    Taiwanese Movie - 2010

    7.0

    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/eJ5AkCy
    Though the story is almost non-existent, the cosy vibes, the relaxing atmosphere and the short duration made this a comforting watching experience, just like a hot cup of strong aromatic coffee after a long working day...

  • The Night Owl

    150. The Night Owl

    Korean Movie - 2022

    7.0
  • The Point Men

    151. The Point Men

    Korean Movie - 2023

    7.0

    Frankly, if not for the charismatic cast, I'd probably never watched this.
    Predictable and slow-paced for a hostage action drama, focused more on the politics and diplomacy rather than action itself (thus not utilizing fully Hyun Bin's charisma), with a few comic reliefs and a few tense, dramatic scenes. Not bad, but nothing memorable either.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/v41Q6Fx

  • April Fools

    152. April Fools

    Japanese Movie - 2015

    7.0

    An ensemble of 7 interwoven stories happening in the span of an April Fools day.
    Although weird, wacky and sometimes questionable, it was surprisingly entertaining and heartwarming.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/eJJ8jFy

  • Tenchi: The Samurai Astronomer

    153. Tenchi: The Samurai Astronomer

    Japanese Movie - 2012

    7.0

    Based on true events, with Okada Junichi as the main lead and dressed with the wonderful music of Joe Hisaishi, this was a unique historical story about samurais and calendar making.
    Though long, with a not-so-thrilling subject and heavy on politics and scheming, this was an interesting look into many cultural aspects of Edo period.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/wL3AjIE

  • April Bride

    154. April Bride

    Japanese Movie - 2009

    7.0

    A based on a true story and very predictable tearjerker, more beautified than necessary and not very strong on the emotional scenes. A decent watch but nothing memorable or new.
    But, watching young Nagayama Eita and Eikura Nana, and realizing how graceful they matured and how their acting improved was quite rewarding.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/XVn0EF8

  • The Little House

    155. The Little House

    Japanese Movie - 2014

    7.0

    A great performance from Kuroki Haru and Matsu Takako in a slow-paced character driven story, full of subtle emotions and gestures, and a poignant, nostalgic depiction of pre- and post-war life in Tokyo.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/RKgoNhP

  • Godspeed

    156. Godspeed

    Taiwanese Movie - 2016

    7.0

    Heavy on the dialogues, with a weak and rather unbalanced script spiced with black humor and gangster violence, this unusual road-trip movie owes most of its brownie points to veteran actor Michael Hui and Chung Mong Hong's cinematography.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/2KnNQSA

  • Ajoomma

    157. Ajoomma

    Korean Movie - 2022

    7.0

    An interesting Singapore-Korean co-production that centers around a kdrama fan singaporean ahjumma who travels alone in S Korea and bonds with her tour guide and a security officer.
    This rather simple road-trip story, that serves as a bittersweet social commentary about elderly lonely people getting out of their comfort zone, is an easy and heart-warming watch.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/Zyo4rCx

  • Radiation House: The Movie

    158. Radiation House: The Movie

    Japanese Movie - 2022

    7.0

    Definitely not a stand-alone movie and not as good as the drama, but it felt nostalgic watching all the characters and their interactions again.

  • A West Lake Moment

    159. A West Lake Moment

    Chinese Movie - 2005

    7.0

    Watching young and charming Chen Kun and Zhou Xun and their undeniable chemistry in beautiful West Lake and Hangzhou locations made up for the messy writing and editing of this bittersweet romcom.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/dLyeXFB

  • Soul

    160. Soul

    Taiwanese Movie - 2013

    7.0

    "I saw this body was empty, so I moved in".
    "Soul" is a slow-paced art house psychological thriller, as well as a character driven family drama. Balancing between demonic possession, mental breakdown and psychosis, it unravels the twisted bond between a father and son haunted by their past, and explores the lengths of paternal love, dedication and sacrifice.
    The masterful claustrophobic cinematography of the misty, rural mountain and orchid setting combined with the ambient subtle music create an eerie and unearthly vibe, while the unsettling horror and grotesque elements build a palpable tension enhanced with artistic metaphors and symbolisms which convey the unspoken and unexpressed feelings of father and son.
    This is definitely an uneasy, provoking and sometimes disturbing watch, but also a unique, absorbing experience.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/4zo1qhA

  • Plan 75

    161. Plan 75

    Japanese Movie - 2022

    7.0

    "What makes a life worth living?"
    A laconic, thought-provoking and deeply moving study of life and death, young and old, low birth rate and aging population.
    Set in a dystopian near future, it deals delicately and respectfully with some heavy subjects, such as elderly noble sacrifices, abandonment and social exclusion, euthanasia and suicide.
    Though a bit disjoint and dry, it still is an interesting and engaging watch.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/3DbmRwtx

  • The Fourth Portrait

    162. The Fourth Portrait

    Taiwanese Movie - 2010

    7.0

    An introspective coming of age story of a quiet but quick-witted boy’s lonely emotional quest to find his place in an unwelcoming bleak world, full of misfits and petty criminals.
    Though flawed, over-quirky, with some pacing issues, it still is a worthy watch, mainly due to the nuanced performances -especially from talented child actor Xiao Hai Bi-, the subtle but sharp social commentaries on some heavy issues, the captivating cinematography with carefully selected lighting and colors, the wonderful landscape shots and the well-fitting musical arrangements.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/rQBr0U5

  • Daemuga: Sorrow and Joy

    163. Daemuga: Sorrow and Joy

    Korean Movie - 2022

    7.0

    A peculiar story about shamanism, a deep-rooted practice in Korean culture, told in 4 parts: parts 1,2 and 3 introduce the three shamans and a gang leader involved in a redevelopment project, while part 4 shows the final ritual and battle among them.
    With a star cast and a satirical approach, this film isn't something groundbreaking or memorable, but an okay watch, mainly due to Jung Kyung Ho and Park Sung Woong and their undeniable chemistry.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/05b42iN

  • Finding My Gundam

    164. Finding My Gundam

    Korean Movie - 2013

    7.0

    The cutest Ryu Joon Yeol with braces in one of his debuting short films!
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/LAjKqKuz

  • Anime Supremacy!

    165. Anime Supremacy!

    Japanese Movie - 2022

    7.0

    An informative insight at the blooming animation industry and its highly competitive world, as well as the teamwork passion and struggles.
    Though it sometimes feels disjointed, it still is a pleasant watch, especially for anime lovers.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/peeNdhP

  • Good Deal

    166. Good Deal

    Korean Movie - 2021

    7.0

    An anthology of five interconnected stories about five good deals/transactions, the story behind them, as well as realising one's dreams and the pursuit of a better life.
    An interesting attempt for a first feature-length film.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/1XxRwzuk

  • Fantastic Girls

    167. Fantastic Girls

    Japanese Movie - 2015

    7.0

    A story told in two timelines, past and present, about the friendship (and definitely something more than that) between two girls, their breakup and reconciliation told in a nostalgic, reminiscing way.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/qL8nZcp

  • Howling

    168. Howling

    Korean Movie - 2012

    7.0

    I was expecting more from this movie, with this cast and filmmaker.
    It's not bad, but not as good as I expected: the plot was intriguing but too convoluted, the characters and subplots were too many to be fully developed but, most of all, the stupidity, selfishness and sexism of the police force were way too much to digest.
    The best part was the real antihero of the story, the wolfdog.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/W48mzi3

  • Young Adult Matters

    169. Young Adult Matters

    Korean Movie - 2020

    7.0

    A raw, extremely triggering and violent film about a runaway schoolgirl, emotionally and mentally unstable, in her quest for an abortion and the pact she forms with three young misfits she meets during her journey.
    The tone is intentionally bleak and the approach purposely shocking, with the four young adults depicted as both the victims and the perpetrators, while all the adult characters are always shown trying to exploit the youth.
    Though her portrait isn't fully developed, her intentions and actions are never fully explained, and her interactions with her 'friends' are lacking depth, Lee Yoo Mi's performance was the best advantage of this messy and depressing movie.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/EX4P3F3

  • Madeleine

    170. Madeleine

    Korean Movie - 2003

    7.0

    Nothing new or memorable from this average romantic dramedy.
    But, it has Shin Min Ah and Zo In Sung in their first leading movie roles, both so young & cute and looking good together - and that counts for something!
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/Xo6r8c8

  • The Great Battle

    171. The Great Battle

    Korean Movie - 2018

    7.0

    Not an avid fan of this genre, but I had to watch this because of the star cast.
    A historical film, based on real events and people, describing the epic 88 days long defense battle of Yang Manchun leading his outnumbered Goguryeo troops at the Ansi Fortress against the invading Tang dynasty.
    Fast-paced, action-packed, with impressive cinematography, visuals and cgi enhanced fighting sequences, and stunning warfare tactics, strategies and machinations, though the characters were rather underdeveloped and the storytelling quite simple.
    Not a masterpiece, but an entertaining watch.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/45lbjpTZ

  • Motherhood

    172. Motherhood

    Japanese Movie - 2022

    7.0

    A study on motherhood, from both the mother's and the daughter's point of view and narration, delving into mother complexes, dysfunctional relationships and probably some mental issues along the way.
    Nagano Mei is always a pleasure to watch and most of this melodrama brownie points are definitely hers.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/05rx2cN

  • Dream

    173. Dream

    Korean Movie - 2023

    7.0

    I expected more from this movie with its star-studded cast and the promising premise.
    Not that it wasn't entertaining, it was - especially for IU and Park Seo Joon fans-, but it wasn't something special or memorable.
    The story was rather predictable, the pacing quite unbalanced, the comic and emotional scenes felt like being too much and trying too hard. Not bad, just a light watch.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/rLd5vc5

  • Phases of the Moon

    174. Phases of the Moon

    Japanese Movie - 2022

    7.0

    A strange story of love and bonding, centered around a family tragedy, a sad love story and the concept of reincarnation, which is widespread in many asian countries.
    Though the cast did an excellent job portraying their roles, -especially Oizumi Yo, child actress Koyama Sae, as well as Arimura Kasumi and Meguro Ren and their strong chemistry- the messy editing and the confusing switching to different timelines, made this bittersweet movie difficult to follow and connect to.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/vLwVxTx

  • Killing Romance

    175. Killing Romance

    Korean Movie - 2023

    7.0

    Wild, wacky, whimsical.
    An absurd multi-genre musical comedic thriller, with some cleverly embedded social commentaries (such as domestic violence, toxic and manipulative relationships, entertainment industry) served in a silly, mocking and extravaganza way.
    Lee Ha Nee was a pleasure to watch balancing between being gorgeous and adorably silly, Lee Sun Kyun and Gong Myung definitely had a lot of fun playing their ridiculously caricature characters, but I have to admit that a certain ostrich was the star of this unique, without any sense  of logic, movie.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/6OLlksl

  • Silent Parade

    176. Silent Parade

    Japanese Movie - 2022

    7.0

    A slow-paced but decent one time watch mystery/crime story.
    Perhaps I would have enjoyed it better if I had watched its prequels first.

  • Do Unto Others

    177. Do Unto Others

    Japanese Movie - 2023

    7.0

    Α rambling and forcefully gloomy social commentary on elderly welfare system, dignity and euthanasia (or mercy killing, as the main lead claims), as well as their overburdened family members acting as their caregivers.
    With some pacing problems, uneven storytelling of the characters' perspectives, some far-fetched dialogues and some blurry messages, it is not bad but, for a novel adaptation, I was expecting more.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/0DkdPiN

  • A Year in the Clouds

    178. A Year in the Clouds

    Taiwanese Movie - 2011

    7.0

    A documentaristic slice of life film that serves as an introduction to the village of Smangus in rural Taiwan and the tribe of Tayal: their daily lives, struggles, conflicts, bonding, customs, rituals, moments of happiness and sorrow.
    With a beautiful mountainous scenery and a realistic depiction of the indigenous inhabitants, this was an informative but, most of all, soothing and relaxing watching experience.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/R7jb4iP

  • Thirst

    179. Thirst

    Korean Movie - 2009

    7.0

    Disturbing, provocative, obscure.
    Not one of the best of Park Chan Wook's movies, but still an intriguing watch.
    Watch with caution.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/eZ80miy

  • Like a Virgin

    180. Like a Virgin

    Korean Movie - 2006

    7.0

    A difficult theme, with a surprising positive and not overly melo approach.
    Ryu Deok Hwan was very young and almost unrecognizable as the chubby transgender young boy who dreams of becoming a beautiful woman, through gender reassignment surgery, and joins his school's traditional wrestling team in order to realise his dream.
    The humor wasn't always the best, the tone was often inconsistent, the plot was sometimes simplified, but the story had heart and a message.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/wd0blIE

  • Count

    181. Count

    Korean Movie - 2023

    7.0

    Based on a true story, this was a heartwarming sports film, full of energy, dreams, struggles and teamwork.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/2bgWgiA

  • Stone Skipping

    182. Stone Skipping

    Korean Movie - 2020

    7.0

    A sad, frustrating story about prejudice, misunderstandings, blind beliefs, lack of empathy and how those can distort the truth and destroy one's life.
    Though it wasn't a flawless storytelling, it was thought-provoking and challenging watch.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/2bErlCA

  • Flaming Cloud

    183. Flaming Cloud

    Chinese Movie - 2023

    7.0

    Bizarre, whimsical take of the Sleeping Beauty fairytale curse, surrealistic and colourful settings, extravagantly rich visuals, classic Disney vibes blended with Chinese mythology and lengthy musical sequences in a quest to discover if true love really exists.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/vb86Nhx

  • Blue

    184. Blue

    Thai Movie - 2018

    7.0

    A blend of reality and fantasy, in a state just between consciousness and  falling asleep, depicting the painful white nights of insomnia...
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/0qE4BsN

  • Where to Go

    185. Where to Go

    Korean Movie - 2018

    7.0

    Short in duration but full of melancholy, loneliness, longing and emotions.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/1NpyQNu0

  • Still

    186. Still

    Filipino Movie - 2016

    7.0

    Laconic but on point coming-of-age story of two brothers, their deep bonding and innocence, and the cruelty of grown-ups they have to deal with.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/45v8ZxTZ

  • The Serpent's Song

    187. The Serpent's Song

    Thai Movie - 2017

    7.0

    Thought-provoking and triggering, confusing and surreal, with a beautiful photography and an absorbing performance from Kitty Chicha.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/qz8XvCp

  • 6/45

    188. 6/45

    Korean Movie - 2022

    6.5

    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/eJy3jIy
    A no-brainer light comedy, with some funny moments, but not as good as expected with this cast and nothing really memorable...

  • H

    189. H

    Korean Movie - 2002

    6.5

    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/BVNweFE
    Dark, violent and enigmatic, though flawed, dated and not really convincing.
    Too bad Cho Seung Woo's twisted, mysterious (and kinda sexy) serial killer character wasn't fully utilized.

  • If You Are the One 2

    190. If You Are the One 2

    Chinese Movie - 2010

    6.5

    Not even close to its prequel charms, wittiness and quirkiness...

  • Grown-ups

    191. Grown-ups

    Japanese Movie - 2022

    6.5

    Good intentions, bland outcome.
    In spite of Kiryuu Mai's genuine performance, the fragmented narration through non-linear rapid shifts to different timelines, as well as the abrupt editing between the scenes, made this messy story difficult to follow.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/WV8dqh3

  • Ditto

    192. Ditto

    Korean Movie - 2022

    6.5

    Nostalgic, mellow, with some cute moments but overall average.
    Though almost 2 hours long, both love storylines felt rushed and underdeveloped.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/WVLy2c3

  • Project Wolf Hunting

    193. Project Wolf Hunting

    Korean Movie - 2022

    6.5

    Such a wasted potential of the stellar cast in this absurd, incoherent splatter-fest plot...
    In fact, the almost non-existent story is just the excuse for a tribute to extreme but meaningless violence, gore and adrenaline-high choreographed fighting scenes.
    Only for fans of this genre.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/1eOd4tR

  • Attack on a Bakery

    194. Attack on a Bakery

    Japanese Movie - 1982

    6.5

    Sociopolitical, moral and existential debates while eating bread and listening to Wagner.
    A short witty film adapted from one of Murakami's short stories.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/wLnxjCE

  • Love of South and North

    195. Love of South and North

    Korean Movie - 2003

    6.5

    Dated, exaggerated and very predictable, with many cliches and flat characters.
    As much as I like Zo In Sung, this is definitely not one of his best works.

  • The Village

    196. The Village

    Japanese Movie - 2023

    6.5

    Promising cast, intriguing concept, underwhelming outcome.
    With an eerie and dark cinematography, an imposing music and some interesting performances -especially from Yokohama Ryusei- this slow-paced and unfocused story tried hard to blend many subplots, such as some social critique about environment and tradition, modernization, depopulation, bullying, trauma, and a love story in the midst of all these, but the weak writing, the messy editing and the lack of any character depth resulted in a dull and frustrating watch.https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/4zOBqCA

  • See Hear Love: Mienakute mo Kikoenakute mo Aishiteru

    Unfortunately, it takes more than a promising script and a great cast to make a movie work well.
    Even though the premise of the main couple's story was intriguing and their screentime heartwarming and sweet, it came out as oversimplified, placing the characters in quite unrealistic situations and intentionally more tearjerking than needed, while all the side characters felt one-dimenstional and cringy.
    Kudos to Yamapi and Araki Yuko who did the best they could with the little they were given...
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/ee6v5hy

  • Cicadas

    198. Cicadas

    Korean Movie - 2022

    6.5

    A peculiar, messy story with no clear message - or too many messages to handle...
    Little talented cutie pie Seo Yeon Woo (and some nicely filmed scenes) was its only saving grace.
    https://mydramalist.com/profile/penel/feeds/qZzPAhp

  • My Boyfriend in Orange

    199. My Boyfriend in Orange

    Japanese Movie - 2022

    6.0

    A typical fluffy school romance (or grooming as a matter of fact) between a high school girl and a firefighter.
    So, not exactly an older man/younger woman romcom, but an adult/minor one tbh.
    If you're okay with this fact, you may find it entertaining...

Trending