Past Lives is now streaming on Netflix

For cinephiles intrigued by quiet romances and timely reunions, Past Lives arrives as a welcome devotion to what might have been—and, for those curious, it is now streaming on Netflix across multiple regions. Directed by playwright-turned-filmmaker Celine Song, this debut feature follows Nora and Hae Sung, two childhood friends separated when Nora’s family emigrates from South Korea, only to reconnect two decades later for a single, fateful week.

Anchored by luminous performances from Greta Lee and Teo Yoo, with John Magaro in a pivotal supporting role, the film unfolds in gentle chapters of memory, longing and quiet what-ifs. Garnering critical acclaim as one of 2023’s best films—praised for its emotional precision and real-life inspiration—Past Lives earned nominations at the Independent Spirit Awards and won Best First Film at the New York Film Critics Circle Awards.

It’s the kind of indie drama that lingers: a story of destiny, distance and the choices that shape us.

What Past Lives is about and how it arrived on Netflix

Past Lives landed on the network in early May 2025, allowing streaming audiences to discover this tender drama at home. The screenplay and direction are by Celine Song, whose semi‑autobiographical tale examines the elasticity of time and the quiet power of everyday moments.

Greta Lee portrays Nora, whose pragmatic life in New York contrasts with Hae Sung’s contemplative existence back in Seoul, played by Teo Yoo; John Magaro rounds out the trio as Nora’s fiancé, underscoring the crossroads at the film’s heart.

Premiering at the Sundance Film Festival to rapturous applause, the film collected honors including a Best Director nomination from the Florida Film Critics Circle and secured multiple nods at the Critics’ Choice and Independent Spirit Awards. Its seamless fusion of melancholy and hope, framed by exquisite cinematography, made it an awards-season darling and a perfect fit for Netflix’s curated collection of acclaimed indie titles.

Other Netflix gems and recommendations post‑Past Lives

If Past Lives struck a chord, Netflix’s 2025 slate offers other richly textured romances and thought‑provoking dramas. On May 30, the platform debuts the Korean animated romance Lost in Starlight, pairing interplanetary visuals with a bittersweet tale of two lovers separated by a Mars mission.

For viewers craving high‑octane thrills, Exterritorial—a German action‑thriller about a rogue operative searching for her kidnapped son—landed in the U.S. Top 10 list as of May 3. And if you liked the cross‑cultural intimacy of Past Lives, Decider recommends Promised Hearts, an Indonesian friends‑to‑lovers romance wrapped in familial obligations and unexpected betrayals.

Beyond Netflix originals, critics point to similar meditative journeys: Portrait of a Lady on Fire and Drive My Car often top “best movies like Past Lives” lists, each exploring love’s quiet complexities across cultural backdrops.

Meanwhile, Netflix’s own TUDUM editorial highlights The Last Letter From Your Lover and All The Bright Places for those seeking bittersweet romance woven with time‑slipping narratives. Whether you’re in the mood for animated heartache, action‑packed suspense or more indie romance epics, Netflix’s 2025 lineup ensures there’s a next stop after Past Lives.

With its heartfelt performances, thoughtful direction and subtle punctuation of longing, Past Lives cements itself as one of this year’s most resonant films on Netflix. Stream it, savor it, and then explore the suite of 2025 releases that promise to keep the conversations and the emotions flowing.

Jasmine is a journalist for Primetimer

She graduated with a B.A. in English Literature from Sophia College in Mumbai, where she had the unique opportunity to publish research in social science and media.

Jasmine holds more than three years of experience including an ex-Founder's role at a digital marketing agency called 'Very Weird'. Additionally, she also had stints as a journalist at GrowMeOrganic and Scatter Content. She also worked in the Social Media Management team for beauty and wellness brands, Green Maven and Yoga House Mumbai.

Jasmine is a strict follower of ethics in journalism and stays updated with industry developments in order to improve her craft. She is committed to presenting diverse perspectives, which enriches her storytelling and enhances the relevance of her articles in today’s dynamic media landscape.