Past Lives

In the closing moments of Past Lives, Hae Sung stands outside a café, waiting for an Uber, and shares a poignant glance with Nora. Despite the unspoken feelings that hang between them, neither makes a move—an acknowledgement of their lingering connection but also of the reality that their love isn’t meant to be in this lifetime. Hae Sung’s silent hope that their bond might find fulfillment in another life reflects the film’s core idea of in-yun, the Korean belief that love and connections can transcend time and rebirth. Nora, overwhelmed by the complexity of their relationship and the life she’s chosen, breaks down in an emotional moment, hinting at her regret and longing. Her husband Arthur, calm and considerate, offers her comfort, reaffirming her current path and life in New York. The film ends with an understanding that their love, though beautiful and deep, is ultimately part of a cycle of destiny—one that might only be fulfilled across multiple lives. In this quiet, bittersweet farewell, we see the acceptance that some loves are meant to be places in the past but might endure silently in the future, waiting for a time when they could finally be together.}

Last Updated: June 25, 2025 at 08:44