Marry My Dead Body - Movie Review | Plot, Cast, Ending Explained (2024)

Marry My Dead Bodyis a Taiwanese movie about a hom*ophobic cop, a gay ghost, and their relationship. The main character is a police detective prejudiced against the LGBTQ+ community. One day, a superstitious woman approaches the cop and ropes him into marrying her dead grandson. If the protagonist opposes the union, he shall experience misfortune. Reluctantly, he must communicate with the deceased to fulfill his last wishes.

A charming and creative movie, Marry My Dead Body provides two hours of delightful entertainment. The story takes a while to warm up and establish its unusual premise. Once the film hits its stride, I enjoy the cheerful humour, goofy antics, and lovable protagonists. Although there is no romance, the plot focuses on a gay protagonist and contains poignant LGBTQ+ themes. Both charismatic leads also bring immense enthusiasm to their roles.

SummaryCast ▼

Title:

關於我和鬼變成家人的那件事

Movie Info:

Taiwan (2023)

Length:

2 hours and 10 minutes

Genre:

Supernatural drama

About:

Marry My Dead Body is a happy & funny movie.

Is Marry My Dead Body BL?

No, but the lead character is gay.

Ming Han is an ambitious police detective. He works with his partner Tsu Ching at the precinct, specializing in criminal cases. Recently, their squad has been investigating leads on Hsiao Yuan, a notorious drug dealer. Hsiao Yuan is a dangerous crime syndicate with many underlings. He has evaded law enforcement thus far. However, the police are closing in on their target and want to arrest Hsiao Yuan during his next drug deal.

Recently, Ming Han faced scrutiny while working on another case. He went undercover to arrest a drug user, almost pretending to seduce him. However, Ming Han uses excessive violence and hom*ophobic language while apprehending the perpetrator. Ming Han has received complaints for his misconduct. His boss, Hsiao Yuan, demotes him after the incident. Ming Han is annoyed by the job relocation to a smaller police station. He wants to return to his old career and work on more exciting cases.

One day, Ming Han and his partner pursue a criminal in a chaotic chase. They leave behind a sloppy mess at the park. While Ming Han is cleaning, he picks up an innocuous red envelope from the ground. Suddenly, a senior woman approaches him, claiming he is now betrothed to her deceased grandson. According to folklore, anyone who takes the red packet has unknowingly agreed to a "ghost marriage". Ming Han is declared the groom to Mao, a gay man who recently died in an accident.

Mao's grandmother wants to proceed with a wedding ceremony. One of her biggest regrets is that she couldn't help Mao get married before his sudden death. However, Ming Han dismisses her and doesn't take this superstition seriously. She curses him, claiming that he will experience misfortune. After rejecting the ghost marriage, Ming Han constantly encounters unlucky scenarios, including many freak accidents and physical injuries. Feeling disturbed, Ming Han reluctantly agrees to marry Mao's grandson as long as that reverses the bad omen.

Mao's father disrupts the matrimonial ceremony, claiming this ghost marriage tradition is nonsense. Nonetheless, Ming Han follows the grandmother's instructions, which involve "sleeping" with her grandson on their wedding night. Ming Han is stunned when he can see Mao, a ghostly apparition who manifests himself in physical form. Ming Han reacts awfully and offends Mao with hom*ophobic insults. The angry ghost pesters him in retaliation. Ming Han finally agrees to help Mao fulfill his last wishes so he can peacefully move on to the afterlife.

▲ SummaryReview ▼

Ming Han

Greg Hsu (許光漢)

Ming Han is a police detective who feels passionate about his line of work. However, he recently faced a demotion after mishandling the perpetrator during an arrest. He is eager to return to his old career. Ming Han is single and lives alone. Before meeting Mao, Ming Han has expressed hom*ophobic views.

Greg Hsu

Greg Hsu (許光漢) is a Taiwanese actor. He is born on October 31, 1990. He is the lead of the 2023 movie, Marry My Dead Body. Greg is best known for starring in the hit drama, Someday or One Day (2019).

• Greg Hsu Instagram
• Greg Hsu MyDramaList

Mao

Austin Lin (林柏宏)

Mao is a ghost who recently died in an accident. Before his death, he was close with his supportive grandmother. However, he had a distant relationship with his dad. Mao starts pestering Ming Han after they wed in a ghost marriage. Mao wants to fulfill his last wishes and looks forward to reincarnating.

Austin Lin

Austin Lin (林柏宏) is a Taiwanese actor. He is born on January 27, 1998. He is the star of the 2023 movie, Marry My Dead Body.

• Austin Lin Instagram
• Austin Lin MyDramaList

Mao's grandma

Wang Maan Chiao (王滿嬌)

Mao's dad

Tou Chung Hua (庹宗華)

Tsu Ching

Gingle Wang (王淨)

Yung Kang

Ma Nien Hsien (馬念先)

Chia Hao

Aaron Yan (炎亞綸)

Chubby

Flower Chen (陳晏佐)

Hsiao Yuan

Tsai Chen Nan (蔡振南)

Hsiao-Ma

Cliff Cho (邱俊儒)

A-Gao

Chang Zhang Xing (張再興)

Chia Hao's Partner

Chris Lee (李至正)

Temple Master

Cheng Chi Wei (鄭志偉)

Councillor's Son

Dean Tang (唐綸)

Mao Jr.

Mu Mu Jiang (木木醬)

Cast Highlights

• Ming Han's actor (Greg Hsu) is well-known for starring in the Taiwanese hit drama, Some Day or One Day (2019). That series has a very minor gay subplot.
• Mao's actor (Austin Lin) was nominated at the 2023 Taipei Film Awards for his role in Marry My Dead Body.

▲ CastAnalysis ▼

Marry My Dead Body is afun, eccentric movie with a unique premise. It combines a comedic supernatural tale with Asian folklore, a police investigation, and LGBTQ+ themes. At first glance, these drastically different genres shouldn't overlap. Yet, the story finds a clever way to connect each topic and create a cohesive narrative. Marry My Dead Body displays an immense imagination and experiments with many quirky ideas. No wonder the film is a hit in Taiwan, winning awards and becoming a blockbuster favourite.

Admittedly, Marry My Dead Body takes a while to warm up. During the movie's first arc, the protagonist goes through chaotic circ*mstances as his life spirals out of control. His early misadventures may seem too lengthy and bewildering for some viewers. The plot picks up after introducing Mao's character. This sassy ghost livens the narrative withcheeky humour and goofy supernatural hijinks. Beyond the charming comedy, Marry My Dead Body also explores emotional melodrama intricately. The movie has a knack for making you laugh, cry, and think profoundly about its themes.

Marry My Dead Body has two colourful main characters. While Ming Han begins the story as a hom*ophobe, his views evolve after meeting Mao. The ignorant cop goes on a journey of enlightenment, becoming emotionally intelligent. Likewise, Mao dazzles with his endearing personality. Despite his tragic situation, he maintains a sense of mischievous humour. The movie is most enjoyable when showcasing theplayful interactions between the two leads. From snappy banter to naughty pranks, Ming Han and Mao form a dynamic duo with sizzling chemistry.

Both actors bring irresistible charismato their roles. Going into the movie, I am a Greg Hsu hater due to his ugly stance on Uyghur oppression. Despite my ill will, I must begrudgingly admit his portrayal of Ming Han is stellar. He's funny and vivacious, nailing every comedic scene. This confident leading man carries the film with a relaxed demeanour. Plus, his ass looks incredible! Likewise, his costar (Austin Lin) can turn on the charm, giving Mao's character so much personality. His sensitive, teary-eyed performance at the story's climax is a memorable highlight.

Marry My Dead Bodyhas little romantic contentbesides several kisses among the supporting cast. The movie teases a few affectionate moments between the leads, but their bond remains platonic without transforming into physical intimacy. The lack of a love story is unsatisfying from a BL watcher's perspective. It's a shame since Ming Han and Mao would make a dreamy couple. Nonetheless, this film features a gay lead and depicts his experiences candidly. I respect the meaningful LGBTQ+ messages, including a poignant examination of family dynamics.

Contrary to the cheerful narrative, Marry My Dead Body has a sad ending. Mao's farewell feels bittersweet, but at least he finds much-needed closure. His final exchange at the hospital is my favourite scene in the film. The sentimental writing and sincere performances produce a profoundly moving encounter. The beauty of this movie is its versatility. Some moments can be silly and comedic, whereas others are mature and heartbreaking. Overall, Marry My Dead Body takes viewers on a whimsical journey, delivering two hours of hilarious shenanigans and complex emotions.

Entertaining story

Marry My Dead Body has a creative premise, combining a supernatural comedy with a crime thriller. The whimsical story cracks me up with hilarious jokes and makes me cry with poignant drama.

Platonic bromance

This movie isn't a love story. It contains very little romance, although the supporting characters kiss several times. Nonetheless, the film has a gay protagonist and depicts LGBTQ+ themes meaningfully.

Charismatic acting

Both performers are charming and charismatic. Ming Han's vivacious actor (Greg Hsu) nails the comedic scenes, while his costar (Austin Lin) brings so much cheeky personality to his role.

Sad ending

Marry My Body has a sad, bittersweet ending where Mao departs after finding much-needed closure. He finally resolves a significant conflict in his life. His last scene feels poignant and profound.

Quirky artistry

The movie shows tremendous creativity. It has lots of fun depicting many quirky supernatural scenarios. I appreciate the little touches of goofy humour here and there, which liven the narrative.

88%

Marry My Dead Body is an entertaining movie with lovable protagonists played by charismatic actors. Beyond making me laugh with constant jokes, the sentimental story explores LGBTQ+ themes.

▲ ReviewEnding ▼

Ghost Marriage

Marry My Dead Body is about a ghost marriage, a superstition practiced in some Asian cultures. When unmarried people die, their families worry they may belonely in the afterlife without a companion. They use endowments, like red packets, to secure a spouse for their loved ones. The concept of "marrying the dead" may baffle those who don't subscribe to this tradition. The general idea is to give families, especially parents, comfort and reassurance if their unwed children die. A ghost marriage eases the pain of an unfulfilled life ending early.

Conventionally, a ghost marriage applies to heterosexual relationships. Parents seek to find a partner of the opposite sex for their deceased children. However, Marry My Dead Body defies the norm by embracing more inclusive representation. The movie combines an old tradition (ghost marriage) with a new concept (marriage equality), producing a unique story with a distinct Taiwanese identity. Taiwan is the only Asian country to practice ghost marriage and recognize same-sex marriage legally. As such, this narrative is plausible almost exclusively in the context of Taiwan.

I appreciate Marry My Dead Body for itsdecisive stance on LGBTQ+ equality. The plot is revolutionary because it challenges the conventional definition of marriage, especially across Asia. It refreshes an old cultural tradition to reflect the diverse relationship dynamics in modern society. Notably, the most elderly character in the movie is one of the biggest advocates. Mao's 70-year-old grandmother attends parades that champion gay rights. The film makes a significant statement on open-mindedness at any stage of life. Progressive allyship knows no age limits.

Mao's grandma

Marry My Dead Body introduces Ming Han and Mao Mao's matrimony quirkily. No one expects to pick up litter at a park and suddenly get roped into marrying a deceased stranger. The early scenes put a humourous spin on the unusual scenarios, from the grandmother's zany antics to Ming Han's goofy misfortunes. The movie highlights its offbeat humour as Ming Han's life breaks down in hilariously absurd ways. Marry My Dead Body is proud of its peculiar plot andfully embraces eccentricity.

Ming Han and Mao Mao's wedding ceremony proceeds in an over-the-top fashion. Yet, the movie stops the silly jokes and presents a humanizing moment. Mao Mao's grandmother explains her motivations for arranging the ghost marriage."I told Mao Mao I will live to see him get married,"she says as a tear rolls down her cheek."I did keep my promise, right?"Notice how she phrases her last line as a question. Her self-doubt highlights the character's vulnerability. Beneath the wacky humour, the circ*mstances are tragic. She is mourning and carries the weight of her grandson's untimely death.

Mao Mao's grandmother doesn't arrange the marriage merely due to superstition. Her actions stem from grief. Her loved one died at a young age with so much potential ahead. The loss devastates the grandma, who can't grasp the fragility of life. She seeks solace in the marriage ritual, a comforting way to help her process the sudden death. In sorrowful times, many cling to cultural practices that offer a sense of continuity. She assigns meaning to Mao Mao's short existence by finding him a spouse. She feels less tortured after completing one of his unfulfilled life goals.

hom*ophobe

Ming Hanbegan the story as a hom*ophobic protagonist. From his nasty language to a contemptuous attitude, he constantly disrespected the gay characters around him. Ming Han's bigotry is an unflattering trait, making him unsympathetic. Typically, you'd feel sorry for his outrageous circ*mstances. The poor schmuck is coerced into marriage. He also gets harassed by a ghost. Yet, Ming Han's ignorance paints these scenarios differently, almost like he is being served his comeuppance.

The initial conflict between Ming Han and Mao Mao is amusing. As a ghost with supernatural powers, Mao Mao has the upper hand in their relationship. Whenever Ming Han misbehaves, his companion puts him in his place. The movie showcases its colourful imagination through various mischievous pranks, including a healthy dose of gratuitous nudity. 🍑 These playful scenes also highlight both actors' comedic abilities. The leads (Greg Hsu & Austin Lin) add lots of spunk to their characters' personalities. Their sassy rapport creates a fun, lighthearted dynamic.

Despite their animosity, Ming Han and Mao Mao grow closer over time. Ming Han drops his bravado and acts less like an asshole. He improves his attitude, playing along with Mao Mao's silly pranks. Also, Ming Han understands his companion's perspective better and becomes less opposed to the gay community. He's involved in a violent altercation with a hom*ophobe at a bar, mirroring the movie's opening scene. The roles have been reversed. Ming Han now knows what it's like to be on the other end of bigotry. He recognizes his past behaviour as inappropriate.

Ex-boyfriend

In Marry My Dead Body, ghosts can't reincarnate if they have lingering regrets in the mortal world. Since Mao Mao died accidentally, he still has unresolved emotional attachments. Ming Han helps his spouse fulfill a post-mortem bucket list. The tasks involve stopping climate change, rescuing a stray dog, visiting grandma, and deleting racy pictures on his phone. Some activities are meaningful, while others may seem trivial. Each dying wish highlights a different aspect of Mao's identity, revealing his multifaceted personality.

One of Mao Mao's sorrows is leaving behind his boyfriend, Chia Hao. Mao Mao was smitten with his partner and evenplanned on marrying him. Unfortunately, Chia Hao didn't take their relationship that seriously. Chia Hao may have humoured their discussions about settling down. However, he was stringing along his boyfriend while fooling around with someone else. Poor Mao Mao was oblivious about dating a love rat. After dying, Mao Mao visits Chia Hao and expects to see him mourning. Instead, his heartless ex has quickly moved on to another man.

Mao Mao stays in denial for a while. Initially, he pretends to be glad about Chia Hao's happiness. However, it's a telling sign he doesn't reincarnate after meeting his boyfriend. There's still a knot in his heart. Later, Chia Hao reveals he fell out of loveeven back when Mao was still alive. The truth hurts Mao profoundly. Yet, it also liberates him from this unreciprocated love. He finally realizes their relationship has been one-sided instead of clinging to a false fantasy. Although Mao is heartbroken, he gains clarity and closure. Chia Hao is no longer an unresolved regret in his life.

Life partner

Mao Mao & Chia Hao used to date casually. After same-sex marriage became legal, Mao felt encouraged about his love life:"We can be together forever!"He rushed into marrying his scummy boyfriend, capitalizing on this wave of optimism. The notion ofa relationship that lasts foreverappeals to Mao. Like him, many (but not all) in the LGBTQ+ community place a high sentimental value on marriage. They see it as an affirmation of their everlasting love. Getting married is associated with stability, certainty & long-term commitment.

As a gay man, Mao was denied the right to marry until recently. Society had told Mao, or others like him, that their relationships lack credibility and longevity. Fortunately, marriage equality overturns this presumption. During his poignant monologue, Mao describes his desire for a lifelong companion."I want someone to share my life with, take care of each other, and grow old together." His statement is relatable and resonates almost universally, regardless of sexual orientation. Yet, a heartbroken Mao declares cynically, "I may never be able to fulfill this last wish."

Ming Han offers a counterargument. Speaking from a straight man's POV, he doesn't place faith in the sanctity of marriage. He notes marriage is "just a piece of paper", adding that couples can divorce anytime. While this film advocates for marriage equality, it also deconstructs the concept. Marrying someone isn't an accurate appraisal of love or a guarantee of eternal commitment. Love comes in many forms,existing outside the boundaries of traditional matrimony. Ming Han may not be a conventional husband, but he still loves and commits to Mao anyway.

Husbands

Although Ming Han and Mao are technically spouses, the couple is married in name only. Ming Han identifies as straight and never develops a same-sex attraction. Mao has a crush, but he pines for his companion without unrealistic expectations. The husbands maintain a strictly platonic relationship. If this were a typical BL film, Ming Han may have a change of heart and fall in love with his costar. In this timeline, Mao doesn't experience Ming Han's ferocious 19-incher. 🍆

Despite their lack of romantic involvement, Ming Han cares for Mao and provides emotional support. Likewise, Mao expresses a similar attachment, especially when he sacrifices himself to rescue Ming Han in the ambulance. Their complex relationship challenges the notion of what a married couple is. Traditional society defines marriage through romantic or sexual dynamics. Yet, this story demonstrates mutual respect and understanding can form a meaningful partnership, even without any attraction. Marry My Dead Body suggestsa platonic bond can still convey devotion.

Marriage is a significant theme in Marry My Dead Body. Made around the time Taiwan legalized same-sex unions, this film explores the relationship dynamic intricately. The movie doesn't glamorize matrimony. The fiasco with Mao's ex indicates a proposal won't strengthen your bond. Mao and Ming Han's sexless marriage also offers a different interpretation of companionship. While the movie supports marriage equality, this formalityisn't the only way to validate love. Mao and others in the LGBTQ+ community can still feel fulfilled, even without depending on marriage.

Who killed Mao Mao?

Hsiao Yuan killed Mao Maoin a hit-and-run accident in the middle of the night. After completing a late-night deal, the drug overlord crashed his vehicle into a heavily intoxicated pedestrian. Poor Mao Mao crossed the street without looking both ways. He was in the wrong place at the wrong time. Hsiao Yuan never reported to the police and drove away from the crime scene. He didn't worry about getting arrested because Tsu Ching helped him cover up the evidence during the investigation.

Although Hsiao Yuan may have killed Mao Mao, others had an indirect role in the tragedy.Mao argued with his fatherbefore the accident. The dad reacted severely to his son's marriage plans and threatened to disown him. Parental disapproval tormented Mao so much that he drowned his sorrows with alcohol. It likely impaired his judgment that night, putting him in danger. Subsequently, Mao's father regrets the final exchange with his son. He focuses on catching the culprit, hoping the investigation will ease his guilt. Yet, nothing can redeem his stained conscience.

Chia Hao also shares culpability. The cheating ex wanted to break up with Mao Mao, gave him the cold shoulder, and ignored his calls. Mao Mao was getting in touch with him when the accident occurred. The overemotional victim wasdistracted and likely let his guard down. Had Chia Hao been a better boyfriend, Mao Mao wouldn't be drinking alone at night. The movie doesn't expand on Chia Hao's characterization enough to indicate whether he felt guilty. Most people in his position would reflect on their wrongdoing and wonder if they could have treated Mao Mao better.

Mao Mao

Mao Mao can't reincarnate because he led an unfulfilling life. Beneath his bubbly persona, he struggled emotionally. Mao Mao felt troubled due to his relationships witha standoffish boyfriend and a strict father. Chia Hao ignored his lover, while the dad disowned his child. Two of Mao Mao's closest loved ones made him feel unworthy of their affection. On the night of his death, Mao wandered the streets in tears. We see the pitiful protagonist consumed by agony and rejection.

Mao Mao has a close bond with his grandmother. However, he doesn't share his concerns with her. The lighthearted scene where Mao deletes the racy pictures also highlights his secrecy. Mao is uncomfortable communicating some intimate details with his family. His beloved grandma constantly dotes on him. She sees Mao Mao as an accomplished young man with upstanding principles. He may not want to ruin this perception and burden her with his emotional turmoil. Mao's grandmother would've supported him, but he only wanted to show the best version of himself.

The neglect from his boyfriend and father sent Mao Mao on a downward spiral. He was emotionally unwell. Moments before his death, Mao frantically called Chia Hao and filmed a distressing video of himself. He wanted to talk about his unhappiness, but no one addressed his cry for help. Poor Mao died feeling alone and thinking they didn't want him. The fact that he becomes a deserted body on the side of the road is almost like a metaphor for his abandonment issues. In the final second of his life, Mao Mao felt utterlyalienated from his loved ones.

Independence

A prominent theme in Mao Mao's life isthe pursuit of a romantic partner. Before his death, he was irrationally lovestruck. Mao Mao seemed desperate to marry his boyfriend, missing all the signs that Chia Hao wanted them to break up. Even after his death, Mao's grandmother is a matchmaker who sets him up in an arranged marriage. She operates under the belief that he needs a spouse in the afterlife. In both cases, Mao Mao's happiness relies on getting married, as if a husband is the key to fulfillment.

This constant pursuit of romance is destructive.Mao's overeagerness to marryturns off his boyfriend, destroying their bond. It also affects his emotional well-being since he bases too much of his self-worth on his relationship status. When Mao's father condemns his marriage, our protagonist experiences a devastating blow to his confidence. He cannot recover afterwards. Mao places undue importance on romantic endeavours, letting them define his happiness. Mao needs a husband to feel validation, which is dangerous since he sets his self-esteem in the hands of others.

Mao's journey involves becoming independent. He stops seeing relationships as the sole measure of happiness. Mao once said he didn't believe he'll find a lifelong companion. Ming Han replies,"It's okay if you don't." Contrary to the movie's premise, its message is that youdon't need a romantic partner to feel fulfilled. Mao comes close to reincarnating once he disassociates from his boyfriend. The fantasy scene at the gay bar reflects this theme. Mao dances euphorically by himself in a crowd, a sign of liberation and empowering self-assuredness.

Patriarchy

Tsu Ching's experiences have similar themes to Mao Mao's storyline. Both characters gain independence after realizing they don't need a man to feel fulfilled. As a young woman working in a male-dominated industry, Tsu Chingendures much sexism from her colleagues. Many reduce Tsu Ching's identity to her gender, viewing her as a PR mascot for the police precinct. She must also put up with disparaging remarks, lewd gazes, and skepticism over her abilities. Even her partner Ming Han acts like she can't stand up for herself.

Tsu Ching's law enforcement career stalls due to prejudice, so she finds another employer who appreciates her talents. She begins working for Hsiao Yuan, feeding confidential police information to the crime boss. Nobody suspects Tsu Ching of being the mole, perhaps because they respect her so little. She allows her colleagues to underestimate her while betraying them in every mission. Yet, Tsu Ching encounters the same sexism with her other boss. Despite all she has done for him, Hsiao Yuan won't pay her fairly. Glass ceilings exist even in the world of crime!

In the past, Tsu Ching didn't speak up against the mistreatment. She told Ming Han to ignore the misogynist coworkers instead of making a scene. However, she finally defends herself in the end. Tsu Ching outsmarts her police colleagues and the crime boss, no longer obeying the men's authority. As Tsu Ching takes the money and runs, she breaks free from the oppressive patriarchy. This independent woman won't need to rely on men for validation anymore. She reiterates the movie's message that you can lead a happy, fulfilled life without submitting to others.

Mao's father

Patriarchy destroyed Mao's relationship with his dad. The conservative parent subscribes to the traditional belief that only men and women belong together. The hom*ophobic dadclashes with his gay sonin an all-too-familiar dynamic among Asian families. He even threatens to disown his child due to intolerance. Fortunately, the grandmother does her best to mend their relationship. She challenges Mao's father on his biases, encouraging him to be open-minded.

Mao's father makes an effort. He visits his son's apartment with food, like a peace offering. He also brings reusable utensils, respecting Mao Mao's environmental consciousness. Despite his deeply rooted prejudices, this hom*ophobe is willing to change for his son. Yet, Mao's dad stumbles upon a scandalous scene. He sees his son's boyfriend making out with another man. Shock, confusion, and disgust overcome him. Although we don't know his exact thoughts, many negative stereotypes must have surfaced, confirming his worst assumptions about gay relationships.

Mao's father leaves with one primary takeaway: Chia Hao is an unsuitable partner for his son. The dad opposes Mao's plans to marry his cheating boyfriend. Due to their fractured relationship, the parent and child hardly communicate over their disagreement. Mao assumes his father's disapproval stems from the usual prejudices. Meanwhile, the dad grapples with conflicting emotions, including concern for Mao's well-being and dilemmas over his traditional values. This heated argument is their final exchange, a painful memory that becomes an everlasting regret.

Regrets

Mao's father regrets his harsh final words. Looking back, he should've spoken kindly and expressed his love to Mao Mao for one last time. He also should've revealed the boyfriend's betrayal. A part of his secrecy came from shame. This hom*ophobe felt uneasy discussing anything gay, avoiding it like a taboo subject. Another reason was a misguided attempt to shield his son from the truth. The dad didn't want to be the barrier of bad news. Let Mao live in ignorant bliss than face heartbreak.

After the accident, Mao's father obsesses over catching the hit-and-run driver in a relentless quest for justice. His fixation becomes desperation. He even sacrifices his dignity and begs on his knees. Chia Hao calls him out on the futility of his actions since finding the culprit won't bring Mao back to life."You're just doing this to make yourself feel better."While the words seem cruel, his cutting observation is valid. The father feels powerless because he can't change the tragic outcome of the accident. He channels his energy into retribution as a coping mechanism.

In the movie's final scene, Mao's dad finally talks about his pain."I'm the one who killed Mao Mao,"he admits tearfully. His hatred and hom*ophobia drove his child to an emotional breaking point, leading to that night's catastrophe. Finding the perpetrator isn't about justice. His motivation is alleviating theguilt for his involvement in Mao Mao's death. He wants someone else to shoulder the blame. Sadly, it's too late for Mao's dad, who didn't cherish his child when he had the chance. He can cry, grovel, or repent, but the lifelong regret will always stay in his conscience.

▲ AnalysisLinks ▼

Reconciliation

Marry My Dead Body has a sad, tear-jerker ending where Mao's fatherreconciles with his deceased son. He meets with a hospitalized Ming Han, who survives after a near-death experience in a police drug bust. Ming Han almost dies from a gun wound, but Mao uses his powers to rescue him. After depleting his spiritual energy, the ghost will soon fade from the mortal world. Before the departure, Ming Han encourages Mao's father to give his final words to his child.

Mao Mao listens to his dad's heartfelt apology for their fractured relationship. The bereaved parent feels responsible for his son's death andshows genuine remorse. The father adds that Ming Han would've made a great husband for his son. This moment highlights how both characters have changed their hom*ophobic views thanks to Mao's influence. Ming Han, speaking on Mao's behalf, replies with comforting words. Here are the main points in his speech:

Ming Han mentions how Mao Mao is proud of his dad for switching to reusable utensils and meal containers. It may seem like a trivial gesture, but changing your old traditions isn't easy. The father iswilling to adapt his viewsto align with his son's values. Mao wants to give acknowledgment, letting his father know his efforts are appreciated.

Ming Han says that Mao Mao apologizes for making his father worry about him. The dad has tortured himself since his son's death, carrying unbearable guilt and grief. Despite their strained relationship, Mao shows compassion and doesn't wish for his bereaved parent to suffer. He hates causing his father pain.

Ming Han thanks Mao's dad for showing his child unconditional love. Despite their past conflicts, Mao understands that his father cares for him. The dad's agony after his son's death is a sign of introspection, accepting that he has made mistakes in their relationship. These strong emotions come from a loving parent who wishes he could have expressed his affection more openly.

Ming Han adds,"If he has another chance at life, he'd like to be your son again."This powerful statement lifts the father's emotional burden for causing his son's death. It conveys a sense of forgiveness and reconciliation, suggesting thatredemption is possible posthumously. Don't let the ugly feud in the past define this parent-child relationship eternally. Instead, embark on a positive transformation and become the compassionate father his son would be proud of.

Redemption

Marry My Dead Body is a movie aboutreconciliation, redemption, and reincarnation. Beneath the comical misadventures, there is a tragic journey exploring bereavement. After his sudden death, Mao Mao can't reincarnate until he resolves his lingering regrets. His discoveries include accepting that he doesn't need a romantic partner to feel fulfilled. He also repairs the strained relationship with his dad, turning their animosity into affection. Ultimately, his father's profound love gives Mao the emotional closure to move on.

Beyond Mao Mao's growth, he also impacts others around him. He influences his father to make many positive changes, from evolving his traditional beliefs to embracing vulnerability. In addition, Ming Han benefits from Mao's companionship. Our protagonist started the series as ignorant and hom*ophobic. Over time, he redeems himself by developing compassion, empathy, and understanding. In the last scene, Mao doesn't tell Ming Han what to say to his father. Instead, Ming Han can relate to Mao Mao's experiences and use his insights to convey poignant messages.

There's one more scene after Mao Mao's reincarnation. Ming Han chats with Mao's dad and grandma. They have kept in touch, almost like Ming Han is the son-in-law. We also see the apartment, showcasing various mementoes. Ming Han uses a water bottle with marriage equality stickers, highlighting his improved attitude toward LGBTQ+ topics. Likewise, Mao Jr. is still under his care, so Ming Han has a companion. The last shot shows a shrine dedicated to Mao. He may be gone from the mortal world, but hisfond memories & moral principleslive on in his loved ones.

Info▲ Ending

• Start Date February 10, 2023
• Movie Length 2 hours and 10 minutes

Marry My Dead Body is a Taiwanese movie that released on February 10, 2023. It is a long film, which you can finish in around 2 hour and 10 minutes. Cheng Wai Hao (程偉豪) is the movie director.

After the movie's release, there is an accompanying webtoon. It depicts Mao's life before his death. The story is created by July (狼七). In addition, Marry My Dead Body received critical accolades. It earned multiple nominations at the 2023 Taipei Film Awards, including an award for Best Screenplay. It is Taiwan's official selection for Best International Feature in the 2024 Oscars.

Director

Cheng Wai Hao (程偉豪) is a Taiwanese director. He worked on the 2023 movie, Marry My Dead Body. He co-wrote this film with Sharon Wu (吳瑾蓉), which won the Best Screenplay distinction at the 2023 Taipei Film Awards.