When Mushroom Blooms

A nine-year-old boy notices that his old neighbor, who always smokes in the same place, has disappeared and that a strange man has started digging in the garden of his apartment. No one but the boy seems to be interested in what is going on, but soon a foul smell begins to emanate from the garden.

Directed by Lee Jong-seo, When Mushroom Blooms leans on a strong ensemble — Choi Ja-woon, Kwak Se-young — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about drama titles of 2024.