Past Lives is a meditative and emotionally resonant romantic drama written and directed by Celine Song in her feature debut. Starring Greta Lee, Teo Yoo, and John Magaro, the film explores themes of love, destiny, and identity over 24 years through the evolving relationship between two childhood friends, Nora and Hae Sung. Inspired by real-life events, this semi-autobiographical story is deeply reflective, philosophical, and bittersweet.
The film premiered in 2023 to critical acclaim and has been praised for its subtlety and emotional depth. With minimal content concerns, it’s a quiet, introspective viewing experience that raises questions about fate, relationships, and how we grow apart from who we once were.
Past Lives Age Rating
Past Lives is rated PG-13 by the MPA for some strong language. While it contains mature emotional themes, the film is overall gentle in tone and avoids explicit material. Here’s a detailed breakdown for parents:
Violence
There is no violence or peril in the film. The narrative is entirely focused on interpersonal relationships and emotional tension rather than any physical conflict or danger.
Language
The film contains mild to moderate language, including three subtitled uses of “f—“ as well as occasional uses of “s—” and “b—-.” While these moments are infrequent and contextually grounded, they may stand out for younger viewers due to the otherwise gentle tone of the film.
Sexual Content
There is no explicit sexual content. A few scenes show characters in bed, and there are mild kisses and moments of physical affection. In one scene, a character is seen in his underwear hugging another (fully clothed), which is emotionally intimate but not sexual. There are also a few brief verbal references to romantic or sexual relationships.
Mature Themes
The film’s central themes revolve around emotional longing, missed opportunities, marriage, cultural identity, and the Buddhist idea of “inyeon” (interconnectedness across past lives). It portrays marital honesty, emotional restraint, and unresolved romantic tension in a thoughtful and mature way.
While there is no graphic content, the emotional complexity may be better appreciated by older viewers, especially those familiar with long-term relationships, immigration, or identity struggles.
Alcohol, Drugs & Smoking
Characters are occasionally shown drinking alcohol and smoking in social settings. These moments are not glamorized and are portrayed realistically.
Is Past Lives Suitable for Teens?
Ages 10–12: Not recommended. While there’s no objectionable content, the pacing and thematic depth may be too mature or unengaging for younger tweens. Emotional nuance and subtle dialogue-driven storytelling may not resonate with this age group.
Ages 13–17: Recommended for mature teens. Teens interested in serious drama or character-driven storytelling will likely connect with the film’s emotional complexity. Its exploration of identity, relationships, and cultural dislocation is powerful and age-appropriate for thoughtful viewers in this range.
Past Lives is suitable for teens who enjoy quiet, reflective stories with adult emotional perspectives. While it deals with love and regret, it avoids any sensational or inappropriate material, making it safe and potentially enriching for mature adolescent audiences.
What Parents Can Do
Watch Together: Viewing Past Lives with teens can open up meaningful discussions about relationships, personal growth, and cultural identity.
Discuss Inyeon: The film explores the Korean concept of “inyeon,” or fated connections, which can serve as a starting point for broader spiritual or philosophical conversations.
Support Emotional Reflection: If your teen is navigating their own identity, friendships, or long-distance connections, this film may resonate and inspire deeper thought.
Official Trailer
FAQs
Q: What is the age rating for Past Lives (2023)?
A: It is rated PG-13 for some strong language.
Q: Does Past Lives have any violent or frightening scenes?
A: No, the film contains no violence or frightening content.
Q: Is there any sexual content in Past Lives?
A: No explicit scenes. Some characters are shown lying in bed or kissing, and there are mild romantic references.
Q: Can younger teens watch this film?
A: Yes, mature teens aged 13+ can watch it. It may be too slow or emotionally nuanced for younger children.
Q: What themes does Past Lives explore?
A: Love, fate, immigration, cultural identity, emotional longing, and past relationships.