Lost in Starlight is a groundbreaking animated sci-fi romance film from South Korea set to premiere globally on Netflix on May 30, 2025. Blending retro-cyberpunk aesthetics with deep emotional storytelling, the movie explores love, grief, and space travel in a futuristic yet sentimental Seoul.
Directed by Han Ji-won and co-written with Kang Hyun-joo, the story centers on Nan-young, an aspiring astronaut haunted by her mother’s disappearance during a Mars mission, and Jay, a melancholy musician working in a vintage audio repair shop. Their chance encounter over a broken record player sparks a powerful connection. But when Nan-young is chosen for a Mars expedition, their budding relationship faces the ultimate test—distance across galaxies.
Produced by Climax Studio, known for Hellbound and D.P., this is Netflix’s first Korean original animated film and has been praised by acclaimed filmmaker Bong Joon-ho as a “visual masterpiece.”
Lost in Starlight Age Rating
Lost in Starlight is rated TV-14 for emotional themes, romantic content, and mild language. The rating suggests that some material may not be suitable for children under 14 without parental guidance. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
Violence & Peril
There is no physical violence or action typical of many science fiction stories. However, emotional peril is present—especially in scenes involving Nan-young’s memories of her missing mother and the emotional strain of impending separation between the protagonists. The film relies on emotional tension and longing rather than danger or conflict.
Language
Language is mild and infrequent. Occasional emotional outbursts or expressions of frustration may include low-level profanities, but nothing strong or offensive. It remains appropriate for most teen viewers.
Sexual Content
There is no explicit sexual content in the film. The romance is depicted through gentle affection, emotional connection, and longing, rather than physical intimacy. The relationship between Nan-young and Jay is heartfelt and innocent, suitable for a teen audience.
Mature Themes
The film explores grief, abandonment, long-distance love, and the pursuit of personal dreams. Themes of familial loss, the fear of separation, and the emotional toll of ambition are central. While not disturbing, these complex emotional layers may resonate more deeply with older teens and adults. The story also invites reflection on sacrifice and destiny—core ideas that may require maturity to fully grasp.
Is Lost in Starlight Suitable for Teens?
Ages 10–12: Suitable with parental guidance
The film’s content is gentle, but the emotional themes of loss, loneliness, and difficult choices may be slightly heavy for younger tweens. Parents should be prepared to discuss these subjects if watching with pre-teens.
Ages 13–17: Highly suitable
Teen viewers will likely connect with the emotional nuance, aspirational characters, and romantic elements. The film’s futuristic yet nostalgic tone, combined with a mature story of love and dreams, makes it ideal for teens, especially those interested in sci-fi or introspective drama.
Lost in Starlight delivers a touching, imaginative experience that is both visually stunning and emotionally grounded—ideal for thoughtful teen audiences.
What Parents Can Do
Watch Together: Viewing the film as a family allows opportunities to talk about long-distance relationships, following one’s dreams, and how grief shapes identity.
Discuss Emotional Themes: If your child has experienced loss or is sensitive to themes of absence or emotional separation, talk about how the film addresses these subjects.
Explore Creative Inspiration: The film’s blend of retro tech and futuristic Seoul may spark interest in art, design, or science fiction storytelling—encourage creative discussion afterward.
Official Trailer
FAQs
Q: What is the age rating for Lost in Starlight?
A: The film is rated TV-14 for emotional themes, romantic content, and mild language.
Q: Is there any violence in the film?
A: No. There is no physical violence or action. Emotional tension is present, but it’s suitable for teens.
Q: Does the film contain strong language or mature scenes?
A: No. Language is mild and infrequent. There are no sexual scenes or inappropriate material.
Q: Is it appropriate for kids under 13?
A: With parental guidance, yes. The emotional depth may be complex, but there’s nothing harmful or explicit.
Q: Where can I watch Lost in Starlight?
A: The film will be available for streaming on Netflix starting May 30, 2025.