One of the most talked about movies of 2025 is alreadyMaterialistsbut the director and writer of that film, Celine Song was behind one of the best releases of 2023,Past Lives, which is now available on Netflix.Materialistsis trending and popular right now due to itsimpressive cast of big namesled by Pedro Pascal, Dakota Johnson, and Chris Evans.Past Livesis a film in the same vein but doesn’t quite have the same star power, so it was overlooked.
The plot ofPast Livesis actually semi-autobiographical as it was inspired by events from Song’s life. The story follows two childhood friends (Greta Lee and Teo Yoo) who grow up and have their romance and relationship altered by the simple passing of time and people moving on in life, only to come back together 24 years later as adults. Themodern romance classicwith met with widespread acclaim andanyone interested inMaterialistsneeds to check it out on Netflix.
Celine Song’s Past Lives Was One Of The Best Movies Of 2023
The Film Was A Critical Darling
2023 was a loaded year for movies and things were especially crowded when it came to critically acclaimed features.Oppenheimer, Barbie, andPoor Thingswere just a few of the films heavily nominated for accolades across various award shows, but so wasPast Lives. It still flew under the radar when compared to those bigger name movies, yetPast Liveswas also up for Best Picture at the Oscars, while also being nominated for Best Original Screenplay.
Along with those two Oscar nominations,Past Livesfound itself as a hit at the Golden Globes, being up for Best Motion Picture - Drama, Best Director, Best Picture - Non-English Language, and Best Screenplay, whilestar Greta Leewas up for Best Actress. It also took home Best Picture at the Independent Spirit Awards (with Song winning Best Director there).Past Liveswas in plenty of year-end top 10 lists across various platforms, was a modest box office success, and launched Celine Song into the stratosphere as a filmmaker to watch.
Materialists Is More Of What Worked In Past Lives
Both Films Are Great For Similar Reasons
With such high praise for her directorial debut, Celine Song’s follow-up was eagerly anticipated. About two years later, we got it inMaterialistsand the critical reception is also fantasticfor her second project, because it shares several traits.For starters, both movies center on a love triangle.Past Livesdeals with the childhood friends reigniting feelings while one is in a happy relationship.Materialistssees a matchmaker linked to her actor ex-boyfriend and a charming billionaire.
Her ability to write heartfelt love triangles that actually feel realistic is incredible and this duo of movies cements her as one of the leaders in modern romantic filmmaking.
Both movies have seen high praise for the chemistry between the lead actors but it’s Celine Song’s work that really makes the movies click. Her ability to write heartfelt love triangles that actually feel realistic is incredible and this duo of movies cements her as one of the leaders in modern romantic filmmaking. This kind of powerful storytelling meansPast LivesandMaterialistsshould withstand the test of time and remain great relationship dramas for years to come.
Past Lives
Cast
Past Lives is a film that follows Nora and Hae Sung, childhood friends who reunite in New York after many years. As they spend a week together, they explore themes of destiny, love, and the pivotal choices that shape their lives. Released on August 02, 2025.
Materialists
Materialists is a contemporary romantic drama centering on a young, ambitious New York City matchmaker. She navigates personal dilemmas as she becomes torn between a seemingly perfect match and her imperfect ex, exploring the complexities of love and ambition. Released in 2025, this film delves into modern relational dynamics.
