My Rating: 3.82/4 (aka Worth your time)

One line summary: Two childhood friends see each other again after 24 years.

The Deets: I think this movie is a bit overrated, but I also think it’s worth seeing. It’s slow, no way around that; but as it floated on, its glacial pace became meditative, and the mix of Korean and English being spoken played to the struggle of the main character (Nora – played gracefully by Greta Lee), having immigrated to Canada and then the US. There is deep meaning in the title – past lives – both literal and spiritual, which unfolds with subtlety. And the beautiful friendship / love that blossomed in their childhood at 12 is expressed through a few scenes and moments, including their sullen and brief goodbye. It’s not a great movie, but it’s very very good, and it wraps us in its humanity.

Perfect for: Anyone who likes romantic stories, especially those told with slowness and sparse dialogue.

Where to watch: You gotta rent it, and you should.

Food pairing: Chicken wings, yup.