Marry My Dead Body – Movie Review & Ending Explained

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 be lonely 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 its decisive 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 and fully 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 circumstances 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.

Homophobe

Ming Han began the story as a homophobic 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 circumstances. 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 homophobe 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 even planned 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 love even 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 of a relationship that lasts forever appeals 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 suggests a 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 formality isn'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 Mao in 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 father before 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 was distracted 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 with a 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 utterly alienated from his loved ones. 

Independence

A prominent theme in Mao Mao's life is the 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 marry turns 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 you don'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 Ching endures 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 homophobic dad clashes with his gay son in 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 homophobe 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 homophobe 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 homophobia 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 the guilt 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.

Reconciliation

Marry My Dead Body has a sad, tear-jerker ending where Mao's father reconciles 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 and shows 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 homophobic 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 is willing to adapt his views to 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 that redemption 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 about reconciliation, 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 homophobic. 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 his fond memories & moral principles live on in his loved ones.