63
Metascore
9 reviews · Provided by Metacritic.com
- 80The New York TimesJeannette CatsoulisThe New York TimesJeannette CatsoulisSeoul Searching is rude, funny, silly and poignant. Above all, it’s kind; Mr. Lee understands that belonging is a feeling that many of us may never experience.
- 75RogerEbert.comNick AllenRogerEbert.comNick AllenThe episodic narrative of Seoul Searching can be too long and unfocused, but its stubbornness comes from filmmaking that is overflowing with self-pride.
- 75San Francisco ChronicleSan Francisco ChronicleA John Hughes-inspired comedy-drama — think “The Breakfast Club” set in rural Korea — starring a group of teenagers coming to terms with the passionate feelings and issues that evolve with impending adulthood.
- 70Los Angeles TimesKatie WalshLos Angeles TimesKatie WalshDespite the overwrought stylization, the heart of Seoul Searching does ultimately emerge: a tender story that’s more about the high stakes of youthful connection than culture, proving that this universal tale transcends borders.
- 63Movie NationRoger MooreMovie NationRoger MooreWith so many recycled scenes and cliches to get through, Lee let his comedy run on too long. But Seoul Searching is worth a look and a laugh.
- 60The Hollywood ReporterJustin LoweThe Hollywood ReporterJustin LoweLiberally riffing on situations and themes familiar from the high school-set movies that established the renowned writer-director’s legacy, Lee has crafted an entertaining alternative interpretation that substitutes an international cast of Asian actors for Hughes’ largely white, suburban ensembles.
- 60VarietyJustin ChangVarietyJustin ChangLee’s movie at once examines and embodies the complicated riddle of cultural identity: Beneath its boozy antics and largely predictable narrative developments, it offers warmly perceptive insights into how difficult it can be for so many first- and second-generation Asian immigrants to define themselves.
- 60Village VoiceApril WolfeVillage VoiceApril WolfeEvery character gets to learn a lesson, and while the humor is nothing new, the situations are.
- 50Washington PostStephanie MerryWashington PostStephanie MerryIt’s too bad, then, that the comedy spends so much more time mimicking the familiar than trusting in its own fresh perspective.