>*"You make my world so much bigger and I'm wondering if I do the same for you?"* Equally heartwarming and heartbreaking. Simple, but elegant. Romance is usually a flop with me, not my favorite genre but this one managed to make me emotional especially in the last few minutes. The characters and the two relationships we get here are so real and relatable. Supported by three amazing performances, beautiful imagery and a calm and soothing score. Some thought-provoking themes on fate, reincarnation, soulmates and immigration. The In-Yun stuff is a concept I probably won't ever forget. Really makes you question your life. Perfect emotional ending. Kinda scary that this is coming from a first time director, better watch out for Celine Song!

To me, you are someone who leaves. To him, you are someone who stays.

Not very often does a movie quietly unfold it's narrative with such sensitivity and grace as Past Lives; a broad but understated piece on fate, destiny, love, relationships, identity and so much more. I connected with every single layer of this movie, and felt for every character and their specific angle. In-Yun as a concept wasn't new to me, but now it has a name I'll think of it constantly as I navigate this rocky plane of existence we call life. A lovely movie with an oddly gut-wrenching comfort; bitter sweet but so enjoyable from start to finish. Every frame is beautiful yet nostalgic with it's film grain, washed out composition and wide framing. A perfect score that is as every bit wistful and full of hope as it is soft and heartbreaking. To save myself from rambling, this was such a great movie, please do yourself a favour and let it whisk you away at your earliest convenience, I just can't guarantee you won't need tissues by the time the credits roll.

At its core, Past Lives is an exploration of the profound notion of pondering our most significant "what ifs" in life. Unlike almost any other film I've seen, this movie beautifully captures the yearning and longing that arise when we contemplate the paths we didn't take. It lays bare the raw vulnerability that emerges as we confront the choices we made and the roads left unexplored. Yet, it also highlights the inherent beauty in such contemplation, revealing how we can find solace, inspiration, and personal growth by revisiting the untrodden paths. It delicately portrays the painful yet cathartic nature of this process, compelling even ourselves to confront our deepest desires, regrets, and unfulfilled moments. I really can’t recommend this film enough. It’s simple, yet extraordinary, in its presentation, guided excellently by great cinematography, remarkable performances, and a gorgeous soundtrack.