The Mother & The Bear is one of the most enjoyable surprises of the year — a heartfelt, charming film that seamlessly blends several of my favourite genres, such as romance and comedy, into something genuinely special. While it may have been somewhat overshadowed amid the packed lineup of other standout films at TIFF 2024, it firmly holds a place among my personal favourites of this year’s festival, if not the entire year.

What sets this film apart almost immediately is its very, VERY Canadian setting. I wasn’t expecting Winnipeg to serve as the backdrop for such a story, but it turns out to be a perfect choice. So often, Canadian films gravitate towards the big three of lToronto, Vancouver, or Montreal. Seeing Winnipeg, with all its character, charm, and quirks, depicted on the big screen feels refreshing. The city’s snowy streets, modest neighbourhoods, and unmistakably Canadian landmarks like Tim Hortons and local hockey rinks, provide a familiar yet underrepresented canvas in Canadian cinema. It’s a film that embraces its Canadian identity wholeheartedly on its sleeve, highlighting not only our well-known love for hockey (Go Leafs Go) and our infamous winters but also the cultural mosaic that defines much of Canada today.

At its core, though, The Mother & The Bear isn’t just a Canadian story — it’s a deeply personal and beautifully and at times, very rendered look into Korean immigrant life. This is where the film truly shines. It explores the intersection of cultures in a way that feels authentic, heartfelt, and often very funny. The film navigates themes of family, generational differences, and cultural identity with a light touch that never feels preachy or heavy-handed. It’s clear that the filmmakers have a real understanding of both the immigrant experience and the nuances of cultural adaptation.

Much of the film’s success hinges on its lead performances, and both actors deliver in spades. South Korean cinema legend Kim Ho-jung gives a remarkable performance as a devoted immigrant mother who’s determined to carve out a better life for her daughter in a foreign land. Despite the language barrier — her character speaks little to no English — Kim commands the screen with a mix of quiet strength, heartfelt emotion, and sharp comedic timing. Her scenes with non-Korean speakers often lead to some of the funniest and most poignant moments in the film, showcasing how much can be communicated without perfect language skills. The cultural clashes and misunderstandings are portrayed with warmth and humour, making them feel relatable rather than clichéd.

I found myself particularly moved by these moments often, having grown up with Greek grandparents who similarly navigated life in Canada with limited English. There’s something extremely universal about watching an older generation try to connect with younger family members in a world that feels foreign to them. The film captures this dynamic beautifully, especially through Kim’s character and her interactions with her daughter.

However, Kim isn’t the only standout. Lee Won-jae delivers a fantastic performance as the father of another first-generation Korean family, trying to set his son up for marriage. His character brings a wonderful sense of levity and heart to the film. His comedic moments, particularly around his awkward use of modern technology, hit close to home and reminded me so much of my own grandfather. Lee’s portrayal is warm, funny, and layered — never veering into caricature but instead offering a loving nod to immigrant parents everywhere.

Ultimately, The Mother & The Bear feels like a rare gem; a film that’s as sweet and delightful as it is meaningful. It’s a touching exploration of cultural identity, family bonds, and the small moments that connect us, no matter where we come from. The film’s blend of humour, heart, and cultural commentary makes it a standout, and I genuinely hope it finds the wider audience it deserves upon its release.For fans of Canadian cinema, or anyone looking for a heartfelt story that transcends cultural boundaries, this is a must-see. The Mother & The Bear is an absolute win for both Canadian and international storytelling, and I can’t wait for the rest of the world to see Johnny Ma’s masterpiece.