Filipino cinema enthusiasts are in for a treat as the acclaimed Japanese drama film, ‘Monster,’ is poised to make its debut in Philippine theaters.
Nathan Studios, the film’s distributor in the Philippines, has unveiled this exciting news.
Nathan Studios made the announcement, saying, “Di sa tinatakot ka pero…ayan na siya. Malapit na! Inihahandog ng Nathan Studios Inc. ang ‘Monster’ a film by Kore-eda Hirokazu. Subaybayan ang nakakakilabot na katotohanan.”
Directed by Hirokazu Kore-eda and penned by Yuji Sakamoto, ‘Monster’ is a Japanese drama that delves into the tale of a mother who begins to observe profound alterations in her son’s behavior. Her quest for answers leads her to uncover a teacher’s role in these transformations. The narrative is skillfully presented through the perspectives of the mother, the teacher, and the child.
The film boasts an ensemble cast of accomplished Japanese actors, including Sakura Andö, Eita Nagayama, Söya Kurokawa, Hinata Hiiragi, Mitsuki Takahata, Akihiro Tsunoda, Shidö Nakamura, and Yüko Tanaka.
‘Monster’ achieved critical acclaim at the Cannes Film Festival in May 2023, where it clinched the prestigious Best Screenplay award and the esteemed Queer Palm accolade. Additionally, it received a nomination for the highly-regarded Palme d’Or award.
The film’s trailer provides a tantalizing glimpse into the serene lakeside town inhabited by Saori (Sakura Andö) and Minato (Söya Kurokawa). However, tranquillity gives way to turmoil as Minato becomes embroiled in a dispute with one of his classmates, triggering a cascade of chaos and rumors within the once-tranquil community.
Check out the gallery of the PH premiere of ‘Monster’:

While the exact release date of ‘Monster’ in Philippine theaters has yet to be disclosed by Nathan Studios, cinephiles and fans of world cinema can eagerly anticipate its arrival on the big screen.