It's easy to recall times when we've questioned "what if," particularly concerning romantic relationships. These scenarios can sometimes stay with us for a very long time, causing regret. Some people make an effort to address these situations before it’s too late. This is the story of a 75-year-old Icelandic man named Egill Ólafsson, who is experiencing early dementia during the COVID pandemic. As his health declines and travel becomes difficult due to quarantine measures, he's determined to discover what happened with the woman he loved, a young Japanese immigrant called Kōki, whom he met 51 years earlier while living in London. Pálmi Kormákur portrays his younger self. Their brief but intense romance ended abruptly when she returned to Japan without explanation, an event that has stayed with him ever since. He decides to search for her before it’s impossible, embarking on a journey back to London and then to Japan to uncover the truth. Sharing more would spoil the secrets driving this romantic mystery; however, the protagonist's story is quite engaging, told through a well-constructed plot that includes flashbacks illustrating different moments in their lives. Writer-director Baltasar Kormákur has created a unique cast of characters and situations not often seen on screen. While the film’s pace could be quicker in some spots with tighter editing, and more background information and character development would have added depth, the filmmaker keeps viewers guessing what will happen next by carefully revealing details. The movie also offers surprising insights into different cultures, adding a fresh perspective to a genre that doesn't often explore such unfamiliar settings, all delivered with genuine warmth. I believe this is the kind of film “Past Lives” (2023) aspired to be; it’s one that entertains and informs while telling a story likely to move audiences—and demonstrates how those lingering "what ifs" might actually become reality.

Source on TMDB