Secret Roommate – Movie Review & Summary

Taeho and Younghoon are in a happy and healthy relationship. This couple cohabits together in Younghoon's apartment flat. Their place is decorated with various romantic mementos, including pictures and matching cups. It's a cozy love nest for the two of them.

One morning, Younghoo's younger brother Youngmin makes a sudden and unexpected announcement. He has arrived in the neighbourhood and plans to stay with his older sibling for the upcoming days. His visit catches Younghoo and Taeho by surprise. Younghoon has not come out to his brother, who doesn't know about the secret romance between the two men.

Before Youngmin arrives, the couple quickly declutters the apartment to hide any traces of their relationship. Taeho is also introduced as merely a roommate. Youngmin begins living with the pair, sleeping in the living room. However, he is a messy and disruptive companion, unwilling to clean up after himself. His habits annoy Taeho and Younghoo, who must continue concealing their romance around Youngmin's presence.

Secret Roommate gets the BL formula right with this cute and clever short movie. The only aspect holding it back from a higher grade is its length. Twenty minutes aren't enough to explore the story, romance, or characters with the sophistication I wanted. Otherwise, everything else works. I loved Secret Roommate, impressing me with a lighthearted story that's fun and engaging to watch.

The film's premise is simple and recognizable. It's easy to immerse in the scenario where a gay couple must disguise the relationship around a family member. Of course, it would've been lovely to see two out and proud boyfriends, who didn't have to sneak around inside their own residence. Nonetheless, the secret romance is a familiar trope that sets up the plot quickly and effectively. We can understand the central tensions, relate to the protagonists, and sympathize with their circumstances.

The narrative moves along at a brisk pace, using well-written scenes to portray the characters and highlight their relationship dynamics. We see Taeho's kind and caring personality shine on various occasions. We also see Younghoon navigate between accommodating his brother and prioritizing his partner's needs. Meanwhile, Youngmin is a troublemaker and drives the conflicts in the storyline. His character is the exciting wildcard variable, making us wonder how he'll respond or what he might do next.

I adore the romance portrayed in Secret Roommate. Taeho and Younghoon clearly have a happy, healthy relationship. They are physically affectionate and emotionally supportive. The family drama doesn't drive a wedge between them because Younghoon always cares about Taeho's feelings. What also makes their romance enjoyable are the charming actors, who bring enthusiasm and charisma to their roles. All three leads look comfortable on-screen, give natural performances, and share an easygoing rapport.

Secret Roommate's drawback is that the movie feels short. It tells the story successfully in under twenty minutes, but I wished we had more content. The film could benefit from extra character development and additional scenes that enrich the plot. Nevertheless, I'm satisfied with the entire experience, especially the clever ending that wraps up the story in a thoughtful way. Secret Roommate is an excellent product, and I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys sweet, casual romantic comedies.