Enduring Love in PAST LIVES

 

A simple tale of desire and obsession drives this touching tale told with honesty and authenticity in Past Lives, a well-acted romantic drama. Writer/Director Celine Song has crafted a story that spans the globe over many years. 

Two Korean children, Nora and Hae Sung, become close friends until Nora’s family moves to the U.S.  A dozen years pass, and Nora (Greta Lee) is a writer in New York City when Hae Sung (Teo Yoo) reaches out to reconnect with her virtually.  Though she enjoys their long distance chats, she is career minded and pauses their communication and the possibility of visiting each other.  As another 12 years elapse and their lives have changed markedly, Hae Sung still holds feelings for Nora and plans to visit his true love.  How will the two respond to one another, and can they ever truly find happiness?

Instantly likable as adults, there is definitely a chemistry between the lead characters. There is a sense they belong together, and you are rooting for them even though they have changed.  It brings to mind the concepts of fate and missed opportunities, and though Nora and Hae Sung have experienced life over time, there is still an intrinsic bond that may be something greater than friendship.  The film conveys the loneliness of a big city, and while there are stretches with little dialogue, the story never loses its focus.  The final, emotional scene rings true.

The standout here is Lee whose character is the basis around which the narrative revolves.  Though spoken mostly in Korean and some English, the language of love is universal. With similar vibes as Brief Encounter and Lost in Translation, it’s a realistic, modern take on love.  In Song’s world, love, at times painful, never truly dies.  

****1/2 of *****stars