Dekanalog has officially released the trailer for The Mother and the Bear, an indie film by celebrated filmmaker Johnny Ma, and it’s already capturing attention for its warmth, quirkiness, and emotional depth. Set against the serene winter landscapes of Winnipeg, Canada, the film promises a magical blend of humor, family drama, and an intimate exploration of identity.

Starring Kim Ho-jung, Lee Won-jae, Jonathan Kim, Amara Pedroso, Kalyn Bomback, Susan Hanson, Samantha Kendrick, and Leere Park, the film is shaping up to be one of 2026’s most charming and heartfelt releases.

A Story That Begins With Worry but Blossoms Into Self-Discovery

At the center of the film is Sumi (played by Leere Park), a 26-year-old schoolteacher whose life is turned upside down after an unexpected accident leaves her hospitalized. Her mother, Sara (Kim Ho-jung), immediately flies in from Seoul, gripped by fear and a desperate need to be close to her comatose daughter.

But once Sara settles into Sumi’s apartment, a quiet yet profound realization begins to surface—she doesn’t truly know who her daughter is. The unfamiliar clothes, possessions, and lifestyle choices prompt questions she never asked before.

This discovery sets the stage for one of the film’s most whimsical narrative threads: Sara’s decision to meddle in her daughter’s digital life.

A Mother, a Dating App, and a Journey She Never Expected

Determined to secure Sumi’s future in the “right” way, Sara takes matters into her own hands by exploring her daughter’s dating app. Initially driven by anxiety and cultural expectations, the plan seems simple—find a suitable Korean partner for Sumi.

But what begins as matchmaking quickly turns into something much deeper.

Through mistaken identities, unexpected online conversations, and humorous digital missteps, Sara starts unraveling truths about herself. She confronts long-held assumptions about motherhood, love, and the invisible distance between parents and their adult children.

Johnny Ma weaves this journey with a delightful balance of whimsy and emotional sincerity, creating a narrative that is quirky and lighthearted yet undeniably heartfelt.

A Whimsical Blend of Humor, Culture, and Emotional Depth

The Mother and the Bear stands out for its unique mix of stylized storytelling, gentle comedic moments, and powerful emotional arcs. Its portrayal of an evolving mother-daughter relationship, set amidst cultural nuances and the universal quest for connection, offers audiences a refreshing narrative seldom seen in mainstream cinema.

The film has been described as “a uniquely charming comedy about one woman’s quest to discover more about herself.” Johnny Ma’s direction elevates the story, capturing warmth even in the coldest winter settings, and making every scene feel intimate and meaningful.

A Fresh Start to 2026 for Indie Film Lovers

Scheduled for release on January 2, 2026, The Mother and the Bear arrives just in time to offer audiences a hopeful, tender, and humorous beginning to the new year. With its rich characters and heartfelt storytelling, it’s poised to be one of the most memorable indie films of the year—and a must-watch for anyone who loves stories about family, identity, and the beautiful messiness of human connection.
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