Seoul Searching
Wonder Vision | Release Date: June 17, 2016 CRITIC SCORE DISTRIBUTION
63
METASCORE
Generally favorable reviews based on 9 Critic Reviews
Positive:
5
Mixed:
4
Negative:
0
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Critic Reviews

Critic scorePublicationBy date
80
The New York TimesJeannette CatsoulisJun 16, 2016
Seoul 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. Read full review
75
San Francisco ChronicleG. Allen JohnsonJul 15, 2016
A 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. Read full review
75
RogerEbert.comNick AllenJun 17, 2016
The episodic narrative of Seoul Searching can be too long and unfocused, but its stubbornness comes from filmmaking that is overflowing with self-pride. Read full review
70
Los Angeles TimesKatie WalshJun 23, 2016
Despite 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. Read full review
63
Movie NationRoger MooreJun 14, 2016
With 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. Read full review
60
Village VoiceApril WolfeJun 15, 2016
Every character gets to learn a lesson, and while the humor is nothing new, the situations are. Read full review
60
The Hollywood ReporterJustin LoweMay 26, 2016
Liberally 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. Read full review
60
VarietyJustin ChangMay 26, 2016
Lee’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. Read full review
50
Washington PostStephanie MerryJul 7, 2016
It’s too bad, then, that the comedy spends so much more time mimicking the familiar than trusting in its own fresh perspective. Read full review
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