The Moon (2023) User Reviews

Wasted production value

[cbrites · 6/10 · 9 September 2023]

High level special effects, cinematography, sound, editing, art design, all wasted on a very cheesy script. Heart breaking, but it's impossible to have a good movie with such a poor script, no matter how good the other elements are. I won't give more details to avoid spoilers. I cannot even talk much about the acting, since the characters are so much stereotyped. It would be unfair to blame the actors, they did what their roles required, which wasn't much.

Having said that, it has some entretainment value, but better seen in a theater because of the visuals.

I am sure Korean cinema could do better on the writing side, having so many good ones in the last years.

What kind of astronaut is this?

[ramseygiancarlo · 5/10 · 28 September 2023]

I want to comment on the character of the main role as an astronaut. I think he is an astronaut who is not very smart and intelligent, and I don't see any professionalism in him in dealing with any incidents that might occur. I saw him as an astronaut who had just been trained yesterday. In my view, an astronaut will be quick to make brilliant decisions when faced with a situation or incident that shows his professionalism, but in this film the astronaut is not alert and actually thinks too late. Yes, even though I know this is a fiction film, not everything that happens in the film should have no logic. Throughout the film, the astronaut is not shown eating or drinking anything while on the moon to maintain his consciousness and health.

Not bad but not great either

[ProstheticPrincess · 6/10 · 17 September 2023]

I feel like there are a lot of 10 ratings because the movie stars Do Kyung-soo. I love him too (swing kids was amazing) but he can't fix this movie. The CGI and special effects are really good, the music as well. However there's very little build up before the first tragedy so it doesn't really impact you emotionally. There's also no part in the movie when something is actually successfully and calm. It's just disaster after disaster after disaster. It becomes extremely numbing. The acting on the Korean side was good, besides that one guy who's plays the minister of science (I think). He's so over the top, falling on the ground, crying and screaming every time something happens. The Americans in this movie were AWFUL. I don't understand this. It always happens in K-Drama's too. Are these people real actors? Everything they say sounds extremely awkward. So I guess if you like space and action movies (or do Kyung-soo ) watch this...It's not bad but it's not great either.

Super Fun Sci-Fi Drame

[tkdlifemagazine · 6/10 · 2 February 2024]

If you are looking for a a scientifically sound film based upon the principles of modern space travel and exploration this is not the film for you. If you are looking for a super fun, sci-fi adventure with dramatic undertones this is for you. The Korean space agency is looking to land a man on the moon, and redeem its prior lethal and failed mission in this futuristic adventure. Circumstances have a lone young astronaut stranded and the film involves the attempts to rescue him. The characters are engaging. The story is fun. The effects are visually exciting to behold. This is just a fun time from great Korean filmmakers.

Good But Could Have Been Better

[quittech · 7/10 · 1 September 2023]

As an American and a huge fan of Hollywood action films, it would take a lot for me to rate this a ten. Armageddon(1998) and Apollo 13 (1995), this is not. However, the potential is there but doesn't become realized until the 2nd third of the movie. It becomes more intense. You begin to care about the characters. The final 3rd hammers it home and you're not so concerned about its start anymore. The action, the acting, and the suspense are great. You're on the edge of your seat. You cry. You cheer. Once you finish the movie, however, you become upset about the weak use of dynamic Korean actors like Kim Rae-won, Lee Yi-kyung, and Lee Sung-min. Then you wonder why the beginning was just so so. Budget issues? Perhaps. Even though Do Kyungsoo is the star, making others have a stronger presence would not take away from the star. No one took from Bruce Willis' spotlight, but the entire cast of characters in Armageddon shone brightly because it was so well-written. Finally, the music score needed a little work. Ijs.

"The Moon?"

[daisukereds · 4/10 · 22 October 2023]

The story revolves around Korea's second attempt at reaching the moon (in 2029) after a previous failed attempt.

This time, things don't go well either.. and one (incompetent?) man is left stranded and has to survive using the Moon resources until he is rescued. Solar flares, sudden meteor showers and many more can be expected. This is what Jay from RedLetterMedia would probably call "disaster porn".

I expected more of this film due to the quality levels of production and visuals. And seeing SO many 9 and 10 score reviews from accounts that have not reviewed anything else says a lot about it.

Personally, I found it completely devoid of charm, personality and lacking in engagement. Sure, lots of "things" happen and tension is almost always high (as with all space missions), but the slow pacing and dull developments make the 2-hour runtime almost a chore. Barely anyone stands out and there's no one to latch on to. Doesn't help that there's a lot of "Government involvement" that interferes as an extra layer of tedium, and the interpersonal interactions are very generic.

It's okay if you like space movies, but I was really bored the entire time.

Not only Sci-fi also Humanity

[khingthazinthant · 10/10 · 8 August 2023]

If you still believe in humanity you will find this movie is interesting and touching. You can see the younger generation can sacrifice for their nation and future. I gain strength and courage from this movie. Plus all the actors/actress are really did the good job. And also director Kim Yong Hwa nim , who plant a seed of sci-fi movie inside me. I always thought sci-fi are boring thanks to Director nim I enjoyed it. I have no idea why Korean hate sci-fi and this movie. If I were them I will clapping for that kind of domestic movie improvement. Sci-fi with Humanity. Must try in cinema 4DX is best..

1-2 stars are just as bad as 9-10. Decent effects wasted on dumb drama.

[Desdecardo78 · 6/10 · 1 February 2024]

First, I'm suspect of those abject stars on here. Both either didn't watch the movie or are bots.

The acting is a little above mediocre. The action manages to keep your attention. The effects are pretty decent. Not much to complain about besides the drama tacked on to stretch a runtime and give more screentime to a Korean idol. That created the occasional cringe moment. It doesn't ruin the plot or story though. Just something American audiences aren't familiar with so they don't understand this mugging they do in Korean AAA movies.

This really needed a big screen viewing to completely grasp the scope of the movie. I felt like I was loosing part of the visuals on television and this movie relies on them.

Overall, an average movie but above average fo Korean Cinema. It's a popcorn fodder sci-fi beast so that doesn't matter that much.

Cringworthy and embarassing

[ramkoil · 1/10 · 8 September 2023]

Train to Busan, Flu are two very good Korean movies. There are plenty of good Korean movies out there. This one is not one. It can not be taken seriously. The story is highly flawed. The lead actor was simply not qualified for the role. He was suited for a romance melodrama. The lead Role also was highly flawed. An army Seal and Astronaut panicking crying losing control etc... No one in Korea Space agency seemed to have the right character to manage any emergency. To make it more embarrassing right at the beginning they are begging NASA for help. Have some self reliance national pride and dignity! Every major news event had to be repeated in English to be given credibility and importance. It seems unless the event is repeated in US news is not worthy.

The acting is bad plot is well unwatchable, special effect is good if you forget laws of physics.

The First Sci-Fi Movie I Ever Watch!

[nurulanindytaaa · 10/10 · 8 August 2023]

This is such a great movie! The CGI is very solid to the point I think it was recorded on the real moon😭 What I love about this movie is that I don't got to feel very tense throughout the movie, there is little laughter during the movie. I can't enjoy a movie if it uneasy to watch. But still it was suffocating to see the astronaut struggling alone in the moon far away. It is sending me a second-hand depression to watch the astronaut throwed away here and there inside his rocket😭 But that is what makes this movie good, it could bring me in to the situation.

Thank you to my bestie who invited me to watch this movie with her! Best unforgettable moment ever!

Fly me to the moon

[kosmasp · 7/10 · 25 September 2023]

Before I go on and completely contradicting my no pun intended saying I use with my reviews, I have to make a pun in German: "Erstens kommt es anders und zweitens als Mond denkt"! Firstly, it turns out differently and secondly, than you think - is the literal translation. Though I changed "you" into moon (man/mond). Just in case you even care.

The thing is, there is not much to say here. You could say this is the Korean version of Armageddon - though it has been quite a few years since I saw it. And obviously it is not the same story wise. It has also elements of Gravity and other movies in it. But it also has a high amount of Melodrama ... so much so, that you might have issues with the movie. Even thinking that it is funny - not intended.

The acting is ok, but the script gives them quite a few challenges. What does work, even if you do not like ... much else, are the visuals. And if you were a fan of Armageddon you should have a field day with this ... a moon field day (do they have fields there? Well you know what I mean).

The Martian in Korea

[ryanmo-35178 · 7/10 · 25 October 2023]

The trailer of this movie is just so good! Never imagine that the graphic design of a Korean movie can be so attractive. The story is about the explosion of the moon by 3 astronauts. When they were in the space, the spaceship was attacked by moving stars and 2 senior were killed. The remaining young one was determined to finish the job. However, it must be done by the scientist who created the ship, and he is the friend of the remainders father! He also needs to seek help from his ex wife who is the management of NASA. With the help of many people, though the young man was dropped to the back of the moon, he finally escaped! The story is typical but u won't think u are watching a Korean movie. Well done ~

My First Korean Movie in 2023

[pandalee-25119 · 7/10 · 14 August 2023]

I rarely watch movie in cinema. Unless the cast of the movie or the storyline do attract me, then I will only choose to enjoy the movie in cinema. Well, The Moon meet my requirements obviously. I shed tears a lot because of Hwang Sun Woo, played by Doh Kyung Soo. Even at the risk of his life, he did not forget his mission as an astronaut. All the audience was impressed by his excellent performance. Good job, Doh Kyung Soo! To all the other actors and actresses and also the crews of The Moon, you are all amazing. Thank you for bringing such a good movie to the audience all over the world. Well done!

Maybe kids between the ages of 2 to 10 years approximate age group, might like this movie

[Neptune165 · 3/10 · 13 January 2024]

Worst space movie ever. Graphics is good if not excellent aside from that the rest is half-assed. Can't even finish it without cringing. The plot, twists, character, acting, story development is just plain stupid in lay man's term. A waste of skillful Hollywood-level CGI that wasn't utilized to good use. If you hate physics and are happy with mindlessly assembled flow of so calls "action" you'll probably like this kind of movie. The special effects were amazing. The lead male actor DO did an excellent job. The supporting actress Hong Seung-Hee was a scene stelaer. But overall the movie was overly melodramatic, sappy and cliched. The foreign actors who portrayed the Americans were horrible and the writer painted a very unrealistic view of NASA officials. Kim Hee-ae had major speaking roles in English but it was obvious the movie was written for a Korean audience because her English was unintelligible (they couldn't even hire her an accent coach).

Best Korean Movie of 2023?! 💯

[hikaripashya · 9/10 · 8 August 2023]

Hello. I'm a casual enjoyer of Korean Movies since 2015 👋🏻

This month, i got a chance to watch The Moon exclusively on fans screening in Indonesia, August 5th.

For me this movie is beyond my expectation. The cinematography is excellent. The CG of spaceships, moon, and blank space is wayy much better than other Korean Movies that has kind of same genre of natural disasters.

Main Actor, Doh Kyungsoo played his role in a brilliant way. He can switch emotions in such a brief second and whole performance like walking in the moon is soo realistic. I'm quite surprised that he was debuted as an Idol, not an actor in 2012. As far as I know, in Korea there's a stereotype that Idol-Actor will never be as good as debuted actors since the start. However, Doh-nim surely breaks that stereotype and showing his full potential in this movie as an Acting Genius Idol-Actor.

The director, Kim Yong Hwa, is very considerate by showing the backstory of all main characters, makin us relates and understand more. All the drama until the nerve-wracking scene makes enjoy and happy seeing this wonderful movie. However, this movie has some unrealistic realisation of space, but still not making this movie less enjoyable as I keep in mind "this is fictional"

Overall The Moon deserved a bunch of attention. Especially those of you guys who likes the story about space and movie with great amount of tension. I recommend you to watch this with friends or date on 4DX or IMAX for better experience

I found it quite funny how the crowd on the studio holding hands with their partner on the kind like "fast and furious" scene.

Sustains the drama so well!

[SoumikBanerjee1996 · 7/10 · 16 September 2023]

Korean movies are renowned for their drama, the anxiety, and the tangibility of the circumstances they so effortlessly concoct, and Kim Yong-hwa's "The Moon" is no exception. It inherited all the merits and signatures of a customary Korean production: great technicalities and an even greater understanding of persuasive screenwriting.

The tension tends to be palpable; the inherent drama and the emotional core help to suspend our disbelief and make us involved with the proceedings onboard.

The only thing that may affect some segments of the audience is that it is too technical, too jargon-heavy, and that might mar the quotient of entertainment.

Cringeworthy story with few good effects

[hoschi2k · 2/10 · 28 December 2023]

Well, at the end of the day the effects are good, so it deserves a solid 2 out of 10. The story uses no scifi technology, but a more realistic one, which sets the bar a bit higher, scriptwise. The writers could stand these limitations and decided to ignore them. So lets go for an incomplete list of crappy writing decisions:

• The astronauts are "Special Forces" and "Scientists" at the same time, without showing any of the perks of such professions. Yep, a mix of resignation and panic for them, and everything has to be decided by the flight center, they know better.

• Added drama with multiple guys trying to to kill themselves for bogus reasons.

• For reasons the NASA is more or less hostile.

• Ground crew has no focus.

• Fuel, oxygen are no real limit - the lander gets more than one lift off.

• Lander damage does not matter.

• Fuel in space detonates without air.

• Meteorite shower is more an artillery barrage, covering the entire moon for a longer period.

• NASA has a space station around the moon including a rescue ship for landing, but never had the idea to use it.

• "I have to kill myself to rescue others" cliche

• "Important person has to return from retirement" cliche

• "Kid of coworker/friend" cliche

• "Have to ignore orders to the rescue" cliche

After a nice starts the movie turns into a cringefest. Better skip it.

THE CGI IS AMAZING

[twelvedecs · 9/10 · 8 August 2023]

I really enjoy watching Along With The Gods and when i know the director made another movie im so excited!! I barely watched SF movies but The Moon is better than i've had imagine, the characters, the plotline, the CGI just too powerfull, its so heartwarming story and i cried, the way Sunwoo's struggle as he tried so hard to survive to Kim Jae Guk and Yoon Moon whom creating intense tension, its just fit the portion, i feel the emotion the fear the desperate in Kyungsoo's eyes, its just worth it. Its one of the best director Kim Yonghwa ever made and im glad i could watch in IMAX and immersed in it.

I loved it and that's my personal opnion

[another0908name · 7/10 · 23 September 2023]

I agree with some of the comments on the plot.

The period that Sunwoo was on the moon wasn't properly portrayed and felt as long as the movie was. It's a shame that the movie couldn't show how long the period was without having to spit it out. It would have been much nicer if there were moments of peace or moments where Sunwoo was shown thinking about the rapid decisions he was making.

This is one of a few other plot weaknesses, but personally, it didn't strip me of the enjoyment of watching the movie. It only was a shame that with those actors and directors, we couldn't make the next big movie.

I hope the research and experience the director took into making the first Korean movie about the moon is not wasted and is later used in a different movie. Although I don't see value in creating a sequel, I dearly hope it will be another movie as the current setting should be left where it is.

The Best Sci-fic

[dkssayang · 10/10 · 8 August 2023]

This movie recomend for all age range. Very good CGI packaging and a background story that makes everyone curious. The flow is very neat and does not seem rushed. But the explanation of each character is very detailed and not excessive. There is no doubt about the quality of the actors. I really fell in love with the three main actors of this film. So talented. Doh Kyungsoo proved that he is a very talented actor. Critics say, Do Kyungsoo will have a long career as an actor. The other two actors are very capable and make this film very dramatic as well as of high quality. If there is a sequel, I'm wait for it!!! The Moon, BEST!!!

"The Moon? - A Wasted Opportunity in Space Cinema

[maheshmokal · 1/10 · 20 January 2024]

I watched "The Moon?" and couldn't help but notice how it tried to emulate movies like "The Martian" and "Gravity." However, it's evident that the production value was wasted on this film due to its poor script.

The special effects, cinematography, and overall technical aspects were some what ok, but unfortunately, they couldn't save the movie from its cheesy and lackluster storyline. The characters felt stereotyped, and the acting, while not entirely to blame, couldn't elevate the weak roles they were given.

The film did have some entertainment value, especially when seen in a theater for its some effects are good. However, it's undeniable that the writing was the Achilles' heel of this production. It's a missed opportunity for Korean cinema, considering the recent successes in the industry.

In conclusion, "The Moon?" fell short of expectations, despite its potential. It may appeal to space movie enthusiasts, but I found it lacking in substance and originality, ultimately leaving me bored and disappointed.

Best Sci Fi i have ever seen!

[syifass-39904 · 10/10 · 8 August 2023]

I like it how emotionally doh kyungsoo deliver the message and the feelings. I really love his rich facial expressions. He's beating the "idol actor can't act" allegations. Also other actors like kim hee ae and sol kyung gyu acting are no joke! I also love the plot where you can laugh and cry at the same time. I dont wanna talk bout the CGI and cinematography, cause we all know korea's are the best at it. And the feel while i watch this movie is like i'm surviving too with hwang sun woo. It's a must watch and i recommend you to watch at 4DX for more realistic and super fun experience! Also it's safe to watch with the child and they'll like it too!

A pointless movie

[mr-giroro · 2/10 · 15 January 2024]

Korean movies have come a long way and have become a major force. I didn't consider watching Korean movies in the past, but during the past few years, I find myself watching more and more Korean movies. However, a movie like this is an embarrassment to the burgeoning Korean movie industry.

This movie fails in multiple dimensions. Most importantly, it is simply devoid of any meaningful story. It pretends to have a storyline. Indeed, it tells a lot of stories -- a young astronaut trying to realize his father's legacy, a failed scientist trying to redeem his failure, humanism that goes beyond national interest, etc. But, all the story elements are cliche at best and do not fit coherently at all. It is just a mess created by combining fragments of the stories from the past space disaster movies (e.g., Gravity, Martian, etc.).

The acting was truly horrible. Do Kyung Soo, who is supposed to be an ace UDT (the elitist special force in Korea), looks totally clueless and just screams during the entire movie. He is reminiscent of a B-level horror movie actress B, whose job is just screaming around until she dies. Seol Kyung Goo portrayed one of the most cliched character in the movie history, and it was just embarassing to watch Kim Hee Ae, especially when she was making a "saving the Korean astronaut speech to the American astronauts".

The special effects were mediocre at best, although I must acknowledge that the Korean movies have gone a long way to be where they are now (in a very short period of time). The series of events happened during the course of the movie were more or less random without amounting to anything.

All these amount to a movie that has no point. There is no story that we can immerse; the acting is too poor to be appreciated; the events are uninspiring and random. There was nothing I could salvage from this movie. This movie might offer some value to the fans of Do Kyung Soo, the protagonist, who used to be a member of a popular Korean idol group. Otherwise, you will do yourself a favor by skipping this movie.

The Moon, fails to launch

[devilkazuma-78349 · 2/10 · 13 January 2024]

"The Moon" attempts to soar into the depths of space drama but stumbles on its mission. Despite commendable visual effects that bring the vastness of space to life, the film falters in several crucial aspects. The narrative centers around a lone man stranded in space, juxtaposed with the struggles of an Earth-bound counterpart determined to rescue him.

Regrettably, the writing fails to capture the gravity of the situation. The dialogue lacks depth and fails to evoke the necessary emotional connection, leaving the audience detached from the characters' plight. The poor choice of actors exacerbates this issue, as their performances fall short of conveying the intensity required for such a high-stakes scenario.

Moreover, the movie neglects to portray the professionalism inherent in space travel. Instead of showcasing a competent team working cohesively, it narrows its focus to a single man, disregarding the collaborative nature of space missions. This oversight undermines the film's credibility and authenticity.

One glaring flaw is the undue emphasis on glorifying Korea, distracting from the core narrative. While celebrating national pride is understandable, it becomes a distraction when it eclipses the primary plot. The film's myopic lens on one individual overshadows the collective effort often associated with space exploration.

In conclusion, "The Moon" may shine visually, but its shortcomings in writing, actor selection, and thematic focus result in a lackluster cinematic experience. The failure to depict the intricacies of space missions and the distracting emphasis on nationalism hinder the film's overall impact. A score of 2/10 reflects the film's inability to transcend its aesthetic appeal and deliver a compelling and cohesive narrative.

Prepare handkerchiefs, you will have to cry a lot.😭😭😭

[Democrit · 5/10 · 21 September 2023]

A captivating drama awaits you, where tears will be shed throughout the entire movie. The story revolves around personal struggles, with almost every character experiencing their own emotional turmoil. However, be prepared for some characters who indulge in "crocodile tears" to provoke the viewers' emotions. This movie is not merely a film, but rather resembles a Korean funeral, where sorrowful cries resonate. After an hour of intense emotional rollercoaster, it is advisable to shield impressionable children from the screens, as their faces might be stained with tears for the entire week. However, like everything in life, moderation is key. While the cinematography is praiseworthy with skilled cameramen expertly maneuvering the camera to capture essential and even unessential moments, there were instances where their efforts became rather irritating.