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Master Rank #247

Monster

2023

GCML Total8.8640% Greatness · 40% Engagement · 20% Ease

Directed by Hirokazu Kore-eda

CastSakura Andō · Eita Nagayama · Soya Kurokawa

JapanJapaneseDrama / Mystery127 minPG-13
GCML CuratedNarrative FeatureModerate pace
Find Where to Watch
Original poster artwork · Great Cinema Master List
Cannes · 1

Spoiler-free premise

A mother questions what is happening at her son’s school after his behavior suddenly changes.

Read expanded premiseLonger, still spoiler-free

After fifth-grader Minato's behavior changes, his mother Saori confronts teacher Hori and the school administration. The same weeks are revisited from different viewpoints, gradually bringing Minato's friendship with classmate Yori into clearer focus.

Why it belongs

Hirokazu Kore-eda employs changing viewpoints to dismantle accusation and reveal children's private emotional world with patience and formal grace.

Read expanded why it belongsThe fuller editorial case

Repeated incidents, school corridors, a brass-band room, storm weather, and Sakamoto's spare final score change meaning as perspective shifts—Sakura Ando, Eita Nagayama, and the child actors keep misunderstanding rooted in partial care.

Major award record

Metadata only · zero points in 40/40/20
Cannes1 win2023 · official festival record ↗
Award for Best Screenplay2023 · Yuji SAKAMOTOofficial festival record ↗

Totals include every recorded competitive win. Only Picture or top-film honors, Direction, Screenplay, and lead or supporting performances are named.

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Date NightFilm Club
Descriptive guidance derived from rating, genre, runtime, mood, and GCML scores.

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