Past Lives marks the directorial debut of South Korean-Canadian filmmaker Celine Song. The movie can be described as a testament to enduring aesthetics. The narrative spans over 12 years, twice, to illustrate the points at which the story’s leading man and woman briefly intersect.

Jung Hae Sung, portrayed by Teo Yoo, is a character who openly but subtly expresses his feelings with restraint. Nora, played by Greta Lee, is a more ambitious character, leaned towards assertiveness. The actors immerse themselves in portraying the roles, and the cinematography effectively engages the audience. The glimpses of both South Korea and America are presented through a fresh yet vintage lens.

The linear narrative of Hae Sung and Nora is the film’s focal point. The emotional turmoil they undergo while grappling with Nora’s life choices is palpable in every scene.

Throughout the movie, the characters frequently reference the Korean word “inyeon”, which signifies the connections shared by two individuals over the course of their lives.