Secrets in the Hot Spring (2018) Movie Review

 

Secrets in the Hot Spring (Original title: Qie xiao jin jia de lu guan) | 2018 | 1h 48m
Genre: Buddy Comedy/Slapstick/Teen Comedy/Comedy/Horror | Country: Taiwan
Director: Kuan-Hui Lin | Writers: Kuan-Hui Lin
Cast: Ting-hu Zhang, Sing Hom, He-Hsuan Lin
IMDB: 6.1
My Rate: 9/10

Chieh Hsiao-Chin visits her grandparents' inn with two friends, unaware of the adventures and mysteries awaiting them in this unexpected location.

Warning:

Contains nudity and strong language.

 

Synopsis:

Chieh Hsiao-Chin (Zhang Ting-hu) has just transferred to his third high school after five years of failing to graduate.  He sits next to Princess (Hom Sing), a boy who appears elegant and beautiful, while Hsiao-Chin has an unconventional and somewhat rebellious demeanor.

He unintentionally becomes involved in a conflict with Bat, a school bully, who is harassing Princess in the restroom.  He also unexpectedly encounters Lu Chun (Lin He-Hsuan), who accidentally steps on one of Bat's henchmen lying on the restroom floor. Photos and rumors spread throughout the school about the three of them defeating Bat. As a result, Princess and Lu Chun face increased bullying from Bat, who resents the rumors.

Hsiao-Chin must return to his grandparents' home because his grandfather is ill. Lu Chun and Princess follow him to avoid further bullying from Bat. Hsiao-Chin's grandparents run a family-owned hotel.

Upon arrival, they are surprised to find the inn quite different from the images on the website.  When they arrive, Hsiao-Chin's grandparents are arguing with a customer who feels cheated by their online advertising. Despite this, Hsiao-Chin's grandparents warmly welcome the three, giving them a tour and recounting the inn's history.

They sleep in separate rooms, but Princess and Lu Chun begin experiencing disturbances. Hsiao-Chin, initially disbelieving, eventually experiences similar phenomena.  Oddly, Hsiao-Chin's grandparents claim to have never witnessed any strange occurrences at the inn.

What kind of adventure awaits them as they try to solve this mystery?

 

Review:

Secrets in the Hot Spring is a mystery-comedy film. The transitions between scenes are very fast-paced, yet the narrative remains easy to follow.

While the horror elements aren't particularly strong, a mysterious atmosphere pervades. Viewers will also find humorous scenes and silly dialogue, creating an engaging story, especially given the well-presented narrative.

The story is presented systematically, with well-developed character backgrounds and plot.  Character development is noticeable. The conflict builds slowly and mysteriously, offering clues that initially confuse the audience. The resolution is well-handled, solving the hidden mystery and providing understandable explanations.

Besides horror and comedy, the film also explores sentimental themes through family relationships. The actors' interactions are well-developed. While the acting might not be particularly outstanding, especially from the main character, the overall commitment from each actor is evident.

The camera movement effectively showcases details in each scene. The music selection and transitions used to change the mood are very effective, with music playing a crucial role in altering the atmosphere.

Overall, this film is engaging, especially for those who enjoy lighter films. Disclaimer: Some viewers might find the humor less funny or the jokes a bit dry, as the perception of humor is subjective.

 

Memorable Scene:

Chieh Hsiao-Chin finally expresses his long-suppressed feelings when confronted with a 'ghost' he believes to be her parents.  His sense of loss is very well-portrayed in this scene, especially when he says they can take him with them.

 

Memorable Dialogue:

"It feels like everyone is still around."

 

Ending:

Happy Ending

 

Recommendation:

Must Watch

 

(Aluna)