“Past Lives” is a US-South Korean drama film produced by debutant filmmaker Celine Song, starring Greta Lee, Teo Yoo, and John Magaro. The film made an impressive debut at the Sundance Film Festival earlier this year and recently premiered on the Prime Video platform after several months in limited theaters. What does this film, praised by many observers, offer?
Nora (Lee) and Hae-sung (Yoo) are a couple who have been friends since childhood in Seoul. Nora had once told her parents that she would marry him one day. However, fate had other plans; Nora immigrated to the US with her family, and their relationship slipped away. Twelve years later, Nora, now a writer, attempts to reconnect with Hae-sung, who has just completed his mandatory military service. Their days are filled with intimate long-distance conversations until Nora unexpectedly ends their relationship again.
Opening with an engaging scene in a bar, “Past Lives” tells a simple and down-to-earth story that explores romantic relationships between men and women over time. Their feelings remain unchanged, but their situations and emotions play tricks on them. Aside from the concept of reincarnation, there is nothing particularly special about this relationship. Questions arise about whether someone from a past life is part of their present, or vice versa. The script feels personal, perhaps reflecting the filmmaker’s own experiences.
One interesting aspect of the storytelling is the use of visual elements to symbolically describe scenes. The combination of measured cinematography, composition, and mise_en_scene often adds a double meaning (subtext). The filmmaker skillfully processes various settings, such as the residential streets in Seoul, where Nora and Hae-sung walk opposite each other when last separated. The Statue of Liberty, symbolizing freedom, is featured when Nora and Hae-sung enjoy their time together in New York. A classy shot captures a merry-go-round in the backdrop as Nora and Hae-sung sit side by side, brilliantly portraying their bobbing thoughts. Keen observation reveals many similar shots throughout the film.
“Past Lives” presents a personal story exploring the theme of “destiny” with an elegant and understated aesthetic approach. The filmmaker demonstrates skill and classy taste in exploring the visual aspects of scenes. Greta Lee and Teo Yoo deliver natural performances without excessive expression in emotionally charged scenes. Their chemistry is slick and profound. However, the core concept of “destiny” lacks a biting final execution. Despite its aesthetic packaging, no one expects a satisfying climax. The mysteries of life, destiny, soulmates, or reincarnation appear to be mere discourses in the story.
