Past Lives, the debut feature by director Celine Song, has received widespread critical acclaim—and for good reason. The film is enchanting on many levels: its story, performances, and beautifully understated dialogue. It also offers a thoughtful glimpse into Korean culture through the lens of immigration and life in North America.
Released in 2023, Past Lives is a romantic drama written and directed by Song. While fictional, it is inspired in part by her own experiences. The story follows Nora and Hae Sung, two childhood friends whose lives take different paths after they are separated by immigration and ambition. Decades later, they finally meet again in person.
The way Hae Sung looks at Nora is nothing short of heartwarming. One almost wants to hug Hae Sung (played by Teo Yoo)—or fly to South Korea just to ask whether he is available. He embodies many of the qualities people hope to find in a romantic partner: kindness, sincerity, patience, and quiet devotion.
Greta Lee delivers a remarkable performance as Nora, a Korean immigrant who first moves to Canada and later to the United States. John Magaro is equally convincing as her husband, portraying a man whose vulnerability and insecurity feel authentic rather than exaggerated.
Although the story is bittersweet, it leaves you inspired—or, at the very least, deeply moved. One of the film’s greatest strengths is that it keeps you emotionally invested until the very end, never making it obvious where the characters’ journey will lead.
You can stream Past Lives on Apple TV, YouTube Movies, and other digital platforms.
If you want to know more about romantic films, check this 5 Most Romantic Films
-Lupita Franco Peimbert.
