Netflix has announced the streaming release date for the critically acclaimed film Past Lives in the UK and Ireland. The Oscar-nominated movie, which has garnered a near-perfect Rotten Tomatoes score, will be available on the platform from 15 February.
Directed by Celine Song in her impressive debut, Past Lives is a contemplative romance drama that explores the enduring connection between two childhood friends, Nora, portrayed by Greta Lee, and Hae Sung, played by Teo Yoo. The story spans decades, tracing their separation when Nora’s family moves from South Korea to Canada and their brief reunion in New York City years later, reflecting on the choices that have shaped their lives.
Song highlighted the importance of word-of-mouth for the success of independent films. “It’s an independent film; it needs word of mouth for people to really come to it,” Song told Digital Spy, expressing gratitude for the media attention the film has received.
Critics have lavished praise on Past Lives, with the film maintaining an impressive 96% score on Rotten Tomatoes. Pallavi Keswani of The Hindu described it as “an understated but wholly affecting rumination on the immigrant experience,” while Scott Phillips from Forbes commended it for being “astute and sharply-observed, emotional without being sentimental.”
Valentina Morillo of El Espanol heralded it as “one of the great romantic dramas of the century,” touching on themes of emigration, lost ties, and the construction of new identities.
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The film also caught the attention of director Christopher Nolan, who, in an interview with Time magazine, praised Past Lives for its subtlety, calling it one of his favorite movies in recent years.
With its BAFTA nominations, including Film Not in the English Language and Best Original Screenplay, and Teo Yoo’s historic Best Actor nomination, “Past Lives” is poised for even greater acclaim. Song also praised Greta Lee for her portrayal of Nora, noting her ability to embody the character’s complexity.
