Love in the Big City follows besties Jae-hee and Heung-soo, two misunderstood young adults who navigate the ups and downs of love and life while living in Seoul, South Korea. The romance delves into the contemporary issues plaguing the dating scene in Seoul, tasking Kim Go-eun and Noh Sang-hyun with capturing a wide range of emotions as they explore their characters’ life crises.
Jae-hee is a young woman who defies society’s expectations and lives fearlessly; meanwhile, Heung-soo is a misfit in his own right but hopes to fade into the background as much as possible. These two could not be more different in how they approach life, but Jae-hee sees something in Heung-soo that has her initiate a friendship. They cling to each other as they continue to be misunderstood by their loved ones and work together to overcome the hurdles coming of age throws their way. They are imperfect as friends, but their love is sincere and constant.
The story of two best friends versus the world is not entirely new, but Kim Go-eun and Noh Sang-hyun elevate it with their blinding charisma and chemistry. I cannot speak to how well these two have been cast as I never read the novel this film is adapted from. The novel of the same name by Park Sang-yong is well regarded, so much so that this film adaptation is one of two adaptations the book is set to have. I cannot imagine anyone else playing these roles. To me, they are perfect.
E.oni’s directing is empathetic, bright, and comforting. Her choices effectively showcase her characters’ vulnerability and strength and speak to a broader audience that will find themselves reflected in Jae-hee and Heung-soo, even if their experiences aren’t wholly relatable. E.oni rejects a healthy dose of youthfulness in the film, with plenty of comical moments and sweetness to have the audience feel joy from beginning to end. These movements also inform the depth of these characters’ hardships and the universal themes of acceptance, compassion and love. While this is on the brighter side of dramas, the drama does hit hard; the emotions are raw and authentic.
The writing is sharp and intentional, and I never once felt like I was missing something. The book does follow these two past points of where the movie ends, and I could see a film sequel to showcase the evolution of Jae-hee and Heung-soo’s transition to adulthood. Still, the film ends in the right spot, offering closure for the audience without suggesting that this is the end. Life carries on for these two, but we were on the ride at just the right time to learn the lessons we need to know.
Love in the Big City is undoubtedly one of the best young adult films in recent memory, its sincerity is palpable, and its earnest support of individuality and encouraging embrace of the queer community is moving and endearing. I don’t see this movie changing minds and hearts on the subject of sexual liberation and sexual identity; however, films like this are an excellent step forward in creating a culture of acceptance and compassion. There is a strong sense of care and respect from the creative team behind the camera to the on-screen talent. While the film ends nicely, I would love to have Jae-hee and Heung-soo’s story entirely told by Kim Go-Eun and Noh Sang-hyun. They shined so brightly, and their chemistry was off-the-charts good. Fingers crossed.
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