Reviews

Noisy Mansion

I didn’t know that noise was such an issue in Korean apartments. After a month-long break from watching Korean films, I just saw two movies: The Noisy Mansion (2025) and this one — both centered around the same issue: a strange noise disturbing the tenants in a large apartment complex. But while the first film managed to connect the dots, this one left me confused and disoriented. I would say the main problem is that the movie shifts in atmosphere and tone too many times — from dreamlike sequences and imagined montages of buying an apartment, to social drama, thriller action, and mystery. It becomes a mix of everything, but ultimately remains unconvincing and unrealistic.

I tried to focus on the real meaning of the title, Wall to Wall, or the translated Korean title: 84 Square Meters. That would suggest the apartment itself is the main protagonist, trying to survive its noisy, weird, and angry tenants. There was a lot I didn’t understand or felt was poorly resolved. That said, I did enjoy the movie, and it held my interest as I wanted to see where the plot would take us. But despite its unusual twists and strange events, I think this film is, unfortunately, forgettable.

P.S. I’d really like to know — what was that laugh at the end? Can someone explain?

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Ah those noisy neighbors

A very well-structured movie with a mix of genres and a nice, heart-warming story. The movie begins as a weird, absurd comedy about a noisy woman with too much time on her hands, who sticks her nose into other people’s business, fighting for order and justice. The main plot follows her as she faces a new challenge in a large apartment complex, where there is a mysterious noise issue of unknown origin. The movie offers plenty of comical moments, but also intense scenes where it almost becomes a thriller. Yet behind it all lies a very pleasant drama.

The character of the noisy woman (An Keo-eul) in a noisy mansion was very interesting, and all the other characters have distinct, anecdotal personalities that give us a lot to enjoy. They remind us of our own issues and prejudices with our neighbors.

I really liked how the movie managed to connect all the details into a convincing and unexpected resolution. So for me, everything worked — the mystery, the comedy, the characters, the whole movie. This is a film I could recommend to everyone.

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Love does not conquer all

Story: The story does not offer anything particularly fresh. It introduced a few clichés and troupes, such completing a ridiculous list of tasks together upon breaking up, which is the main selling point of the story. While the plot itself isn't novel, the story telling was surprisingly well done. The director managed to capture the essence of the main couple's relationship nicely, from how they met to how it ended, within the 2 hours air time. The pacing was well-balanced, with minimal filler scenes. That said, I do wish they had developed the second couple's storyline a little bit more, similar to the third couple.

Acting: I've never seen any movies or films by Ou Hao and Zeng Meng Xue but I think they did a pretty decent job. The emotional scenes, in particular, felt raw and relatable. The supporting casts didn't leave much of an impression, mostly due to their limited screen time. However, Zhou You stood out as Wu Wang. He portrayed the rebellious and playful nature of Wu Wang exceptionally, and delivered during his emotional scenes.

Music: There wasn’t an original soundtrack produced for the film, but the use of popular heartbreak songs like 《在加納共和國離婚》by Firdhaus and 《我很快乐》by 刘惜君 really elevated the emotional depth of certain scenes.

Overall, despite the lackluster plot, I managed to take something away from this movie, which is love does NOT conquer all. A relationship is not just about the initial spark, it's about mutual understanding and commitment to one another, regardless of setbacks.

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An ordinary revenge slasher

Nothing we've seen before, but if you like the revenge slasher genre, then you won't be disappointed. We're spared the worst of the young girl's ordeal (in the form of supporting flashbacks), which is a good thing, and the bad guys are punished one after the other in fairly convincing ways. The subtitles I found made me want to cry, but with my limited knowledge of Korean, that was enough for me. The actors do a good job, and we believe in their characters, whether they're good or bad (a downside for one or two, perhaps, but the dialogue doesn't help much either). 7/10

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The word for this film is: discomfort.

After watching, you wonder what's the purpose of the film? discomfort?. The film is indeed uncomfortable, but it serves no purpose other than being a complete fantasy of a disgusting old man with a minor and an engineering student and failed writer who takes advantage of the difficulties the female character was going through.

Some people have said that Eungyo was the manipulator there, but if the two ADULTS in the scene had put a stop to it from the beginning, they wouldn't have allowed themselves to be "manipulated." For me, her character sees the writer as support and someone to rely on, since she's cleary having problems at home. So much so that when she thought the engineer who wrote the book (where she saw a form of affection for her) immediately turned her attention to him.

She expresses in several situations that she is alone and finds companionship and comfort there, but what she found were two sick man who caused that caused more emotional damage to the girl. I wish they both had died.

Anyway, I watched it for Go Eun, and the 1⭐ is for her.

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The drama title is the key to unlock the metaphors in this love story.

This movie has stupendous cinematography for its time! The use of mirrors was stunning in details, producing a total effect of mesmerizing angles. It is rated restricted, but there's no bad violence, just some very adult scenes. Great skinship is displayed in a simple touch of her hair and all the way to physical passion.❄❄

Bae Yong Joon was the first Korean star I ever watched, and now I understand why I was so captivated by his acting. I really don't think I have seen a male star cry with such pathos as he quietly, heartrendingly does on this show! The psychology of these leads is compelling as he grieves his losses. ❄❄

Son Ye Jin was totally arresting in her depiction of a woman who comes face to face with the most painful truths. Yet her devotion and meticulous care, in full glare of these truths, are beyond creditable! I know I couldn't do it. She portrays the hurtful blows to her self-esteem with such mastery that if you are a Son Ye Jin follower, you will not want to miss her depth of acting in this profoundly serious but very excellent romance!❄❄

The drama title is the key to unlock the metaphors in this love story. Her favorite season, his favorite season, and the miracle which can combine the two seasons occurs, then they will be united for their lifetime. ❄️❄️ So viewers must watch the clues carefully! For those who don't understand the ending, watch the scenery as the ending credits roll. It's beautiful, wistful, celebratory, strangely peaceful, symbolizes renewal, and it moved my emotions.

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Lets make a (Sentai) Gundam show..?

I will be the first to admit I wanted to see this for only ONE actor, Fujiwara Tatsuya. Matsuyama Kenichi is a close second, and one of the main cast.

This has a lot of humor and silliness I expect from Matsuyama (maybe more of his older films…?) so I knew it was going to end up with some crazy scenes- and it did. It had some moments that I found cute or amusing, but most of it was a struggle for me to watch (I am still learning Japanese, and it has no subs as far as I know)

I will just say if you want to see this movie for the same reason as I did (Fujiwara) you might be disappointed. He is in it, he does steal the whole show, but he's not in it enough to truly save the movie (but he is the reason I will be rewatching that scene over and over)

I would say if you are a fan of the manga, live action show, or anime and just want more from the series this might be for you but for those that never watched or read it (like me) it's really going to confuse you.

I was able to watch this on iTunes Japan for those that are curious on where to get it. Again, it's not bad, if it had subs and/or I could understand it better I would find it more enjoyable but even as it is... Fujiwara really did steal the show (movie? Gundam?)

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A roller coaster of emotions beautifully crafted

Based on the director’s own life growing up closeted though has been done many times but this one I believe is the best one. For those of us who grew up during times in Asia where loving another of the same sex was taboo this one really hit hard. I felt like it was my story when I was a teenager. It made me go through that roller coaster of emotions, the happy times, the painful goodbyes, and the haunting music that lives with you forever. And yes when you meet later in life that friendship never changes, the bond losses a lifetime even when your both pulled apart. Your first love can be your last even later in life. The cinematography was beautiful, acting was incredible, you forget it’s a BL and more focused on the development of their friendship. Just like the priest was a pivotal role in Les Miserables (if you read the book) here the priest was also pivotal. Growing up catholic you carry that guilt and a healthy discussion and argument with God as well. When I want to feel good about myself and my past I would rewatch this movie. And reach out to an old friend just to say hello, how are you? Because til now his name is engraved in my heart.

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A Heartfelt Journey of Resilience and Triumph

Warning - this movie does have attempted suicide.

Big World is a profoundly moving film that showcases Jackson Yee’s phenomenal performance as Liu Chunhe, a young man with cerebral palsy (CP) determined to prove that his condition does not define his potential. Jackson Yee brings raw authenticity and emotional depth to Chunhe, a character who seeks equality and the same opportunities as others, whether it’s attending college, securing a job, or earning a driver’s license. Through his unyielding determination, Chunhe demonstrates that no obstacle is insurmountable with perseverance.
The film masterfully captures Chunhe’s inner struggles, particularly in a heart-wrenching scene where he questions why he was born with CP, a condition that remains a medical enigma.
Equally compelling is Chunhe’s yearning for love. He knows it won’t be easy, but his understanding of the challenges doesn’t lessen his hope.
A pivotal moment comes during Chunhe’s confrontation with his mother, whose misguided attempts to shield him by isolating him and fixating on his disability only deepen his sense of being a burden. The raw emotion in Jackson Yee’s delivery when Chunhe admits to feeling like “dead weight” to his family is unforgettable, reflecting the pain of overhearing childhood conversations and enduring societal stares.
While Chunhe’s mother mishandles her protective instincts, the film doesn’t shy away from addressing these flaws. Her eventual explanation and apology toward the end offer a satisfying resolution, highlighting the complexity of familial love.
The conclusion, with Chunhe and his grandmother (his biggest supporter throughout the film) embracing a fresh start is both uplifting and authentic, tying the narrative together with hope.
Big World delivers a powerful message about resilience, personal growth, and the pursuit of equality. It’s a heartwarming, inspiring story that navigates life’s challenges with grace, leaving the audience moved and motivated.

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Beautiful story with a beautiful message

I want to start by sharing part of a review a friend created on letterbox which is beautiful (just like the movie imo) and demonstrates how today we are forced-fed conservative and reactionary ideas masquerading as progressive ones under a fig leaf of liberal identity politics.

She writes: “male sex work is portrayed as being done for survival but it is made very clear that all of these men are pushed into this line of work where their bodies are commodified and their personhood is alienated because of financial need and capitalist incentive. the negative impact their sexual exploitation has on their psyche is communicated very well.” I think many supposed BL Directors who think it’s edgy to portray male prostitution as a cool, positive choice men make, could learn from this queer Director how not to flippantly portray people like Jet at the corrosive, dead end of the labour food chain under capitalism as enjoying their own exploitation! BL is political and as such cannot treat prostitution as an apolitical process, or the product of individual choice among the most oppressed segments of the labouring class.

I think Yon Fan, the Director who was also the Writer, did a very good job and I am now keen to look at the rest of his filmography since most of them seem to be queer stories including lesbian stories.

Some points of departure I want to raise given the discourse I’ve seen from viewers.

- It’s Not the Father; It’s the Son -
I don’t think that the father necessarily rejects Sam. That man loves his son. And as a parent, a loving - nay a doting parent, the first thing you worry for is how is your child, this sensitive, socially aware and upstanding young man going to be treated by the world and how will that affect the man that he knows his son to be. No matter what the dad’s level of shock or even disappointment, no matter how big or small his worry or his son’s future after he is gone, I feel he would have surmounted it; but Sam was so wound up in his own guilt, much of which is deserving guilt for unethical actions that violated the trust of a primary person in his life, which turns out to be all for nothing (spoilery) and that understandable guilt he carried also would not let him go back and make good on the irreversible harm he had caused.

This is the core of the story; how living a life on the margins doesn’t necessarily allow one to have superior insights into the human condition or the good life but can enmesh good people into a series of bad choices that limit not only their own future but those of several people around them for whom they actually have love towards and receive love from. If not for the cataclysmic events, which Sam’s accumulated actions precipitated, he would’ve been able to assure both his parents as a filial and responsible son. This is the true tragedy of the closet. Not primarily who gets to have sex with whom.

I love the way Bishonen utilises the devastatingly beautiful lady Kana, the Fujoshi in the mix, to remind us that to love is one thing but to be loved and to know that you are loved is *everything*. To ignore this aspect is to evacuate the meaning of the story from the point of view of the protagonists which is the story being conveyed.

- First & Second Cinema is Part of Today’s Filmaking Rot -
This brings me a discussion a few of us have been having in our Killer and Healer Discord about first, second and third cinema because people keep mentioning the degree to which Bishonen is good “for a low-budget film”. No it was good for a film - period.

Director Yon Fan does everything himself, he even picked up Sam for the cast as his lead actor quite randomly on the street; he didn’t even have a stable of experienced actors and as I’m always saying when the Director knows what they’re doing and has a story to tell that’s important to him, even a basic actor can portray that story because the most important, the bulk of the meaningfulness of the work comes from the Director’s creative vision and skill. Every scene, every bit of narrative said and unsaid, every frame that gets into the final cut, reflects the Director’s choices and intent. Director Yon Fan owns this story; hence it cannot be replicated or mass produced, which is the essence of revolutionary filmmaking and allows Bishonen to be evaluated from within a Third Cinema political space, just like all good BL.

If we compare Bishonen to what is coming out of the most highly funded, Thai corporate machine in terms of what passes for BL these days for example, it is clear that the more money that is put into BL productions, the more reactionary, the more fake, the more exploitative, and the more boring and insincere is the result.

Money is not only undermining the enjoyability, even the very watchability of the BL in countries where it has become industrialised, but it is also seriously destroying and separating the resulting productions from the radical queer potential of that genre.

Industrial, mass-produced culture is an oxymoron. Bishonen is one of a kind precisely because it is art, created not for profit (it made $18k when it was released) while the big studio movie Bros with a price tag of $22M flopped critical as well as financially and is no longer talked about, but Bishonen’s legacy will still be moving audiences who stumble across it to tears, to smiles and to complete empathetic recognition for at least another 30 years.

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It wasn’t as funny as I thought but the second half was better
The acting was good and all in all not a bad watch

I didn’t get it until it was too late, but when the brother looked sad when she said let’s go bring the little girl
I was like shocked T_T that poor baby’s story hurt T_T I’ve heard stories like that, ppl need to be careful with kids T_T how could they miss her T_T it wasn’t the aunt’s fault but it hurt her the most T_T
They also I think didn’t explain what happened to his wife
Later it also made sense why the boy was going with the dad and the girl stayed with the aunt T_T
Or how the little girl would find her T_T


Anyways, I sused the security guard and mom sused the glasses xD tho I thought security guy went to kill the homeless guy
It was resolved well, tho seeing this plot in many movies and dramas…. Why don’t they just give good money to the people or even a new apartment in the new buildings….

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Tbh the first half I thought it was a new Peter Parker reveal xD also for ppl who are that big on the poster, they only showed up in the later half
So overall it’s just another movie squeezed out of the og
ml’s fighting style was exactly like Jackie Chan but his acting fell super short, and it’s kinda sad to see him old but also admirable
The Conor guy had such sleazy first appearance that kept licking his lips every two seconds like those icky genz tiktokers ;/
The fl looked a lot like laroso’s daughter which kinda makes it feel like they have a type

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