Shim's semi-autobiographical film is a tender and lyrical reflection on the immigrant experience from the separate but connected points of view of the immigrant parent and the first generation child navigating the new world culture that both wants them and doesn't completely find a place for them. One of the film's strengths is the way it balances the two main characters' separate experiences and points of view and still connects those experiences intrinsically. He even adds peripheral experiences such as So-Young's fellow coworkers or her eager boyfriend who, adopted as a child, grew up in a white family completely immersed in the Canadian way of viewing the world. Riceboy Sleeps is powerful and illuminating at capturing this very common story.
Shim films his story through mostly long, slowly moving shots which creates a comforting and almost dreamlike way of following his story. Riceboy Sleeps is a quiet movie, punctuated by impactful moments, but mostly capturing a very honest feeling narrative that explores what it feels like for the parties to make their lives here.
The film also beautifully touches on the bond between mother and son. About halfway through So-Young tells a Korean folk story about a mother which then is reflected back in the film's final moments, but in a way that cements their connection so beautifully. Shim has crafted a truly lovely movie that is just a heartbreaking joy to watch.
Riceboy Sleeps
Starring: Choi Seung-yoon, Ethan Hwang, Hunter Dillon
Writer/Director: Anthony Shim
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