Monsoon

Movie Name: Monsoon
Year of Release: 2019
Director: Hong Khaou
Starring: Henry Golding, Parker Sawyers, David Tran, Molly Harris, Lam Anh Dao, Ho Nhi, Olivia Hearn
Genre: Drama
Score out of ten (whole numbers only): 7
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Synopsis and Review:

Following the well received "Lilting" with Ben Whishaw, director Hong Khaou is back with another film that has been well received throughout the film festivals that it has gone to (including the London Film Festival and Outfest). The film follows the story of Kit, a man in his mid 30s who returns to Vietnam, his country of birth, after the passing of his mother. He and his family fled the country 30 years back, and he grew up in England, where he still resides. His return to Vietnam is a way for him to bring closure to the passing of his mother, but also a way for him to come to terms with memories that have been long forgotten. While in Saigon he meets Lewis, an American expatriate, who is living in Vietnam for the time being, for business purposes. What is apparently a fling, becomes something more profound, as both men and their journeys have similarities and a connection to the country they're in.

"Monsoon" is an interesting film, where these geographical journeys, mirror the inner journeys these characters embark on, in order to achieve a sense of peace and understanding of where they are and want to be. The writer/director smartly takes the central character on a discovery of the city and country that was once his home, which allows us to also learn more about the journey and the character itself. We witness Kit's quest, but also his vulnerabilities and how he relates to his past and current relationships. It's an intimate story about finding your own roots, and ultimately uncovering where your peace lies, where your heart belongs, how being vulnerable and open can lead to rewarding choices. The central cast is uniformly good, with Henry Golding and Parker Sawyers bringing their characters to life with authenticity. The cinematography from Benjamin Kracun is impeccable as is the score from John Cummings. Worth watching.