Review

At first glance, the plot of The Mother and the Bear might seem familiar: a parent trying to truly understand their estranged child. This storyline has been explored in various forms across media—but perhaps the theme keeps recurring because it reflects a persistent truth that modern parents and children often don't really understand each other. Yet familiar doesn't mean predictable or boring. As Sara, the mother, sets out on a journey to reconnect with her daughter, the film also becomes an exploration of Winnipeg, Canada—its spaces, its culture, its soul—and a journey of self-discovery for Sara herself. What makes the film especially memorable is actress Kim Ho-jung's portrayal of Sara. She is, by turns, an overbearing Korean mother, a whimsical young girl, an immature woman, and occasionally a wise grownup. A line from the film sums up the tender tone of the script: "If people live in a world where they believe a bear can show up in downtown Winnipeg, then maybe they can believe your daughter will wake up someday too." (Just be prepared for one unexpectedly jarring scene.) If you've ever felt misunderstood by your parents, this might be the perfect film to watch with them. (MOON Seok)

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