Intimate Strangers (2018)

Director: J.Q. Lee
Stars: Hae-jin Yoo, Jin-Woong Cho, Seo-jin Lee
Runtime: 117 minutes

Synopsis: Four friends meet for the first time in a long time play a game that reveals each other's secrets.

Performances: 7/10
Screenplay: 6/10
Editing: 6/10
Cinematography: 7/10
Score/Soundtrack: 4/10

Verdict: When a group of friends reunites over dinner and decide to play a game in which they must reveal every single text, email, or call they receive during their gathering, secrets start to emerge and their relationships are tested when they discover that each one of them leads a very different life than they initially thought, thus the very appropriate title of "Intimate Strangers".

While I certainly loved the film's very relevant premise, I can't shake off the feeling that its execution could've been presented in a more effective way. By trying to take a comedic approach, the film loses quite a bit of emotional impact despite some pretty great acting from the actresses (their male counterparts weren't as effective in my opinion). Additionally, the setup of the game, which is the basis of the entire movie, wasn't done in a very convincing way. It's hard to believe that people with so many secrets would merrily participate in a game that could ruin their lives in an instant. On a technical level, the film is quite satisfying to look at despite the goofy score that thankfully wasn't featured much.

However, if you disregard these details, you're left with an interesting film that not only will entertain the audience with all the drama that's going on between the characters, but also serves as a great reminder that each and every one of us leads a secret life online.

"Intimate Strangers" is an interesting look at today's technologically dependent society that despite a few hiccups in its execution and a runtime that could've been about 15 to 20 minutes shorter, remains fascinating to look at. If the premise seems interesting to you, definitely seek this one out.

FINAL GRADE: 6/10