'Lost In Starlight' Review- Space And Music
"I Byeol-e Pil-yohan"
Lost In Starlight is a South Korean animated science fiction romantic film directed by Han Ji-won, who also co-wrote it with Kang Hyun-joo. It was produced by Climax Studios and released in the United States by Netflix.
In the year 2051, Nan-Young (Maitreyi Ramakrishnan) is an astronaut with a joint South Korean-American NASA program planning on returning to Mars after a disaster that took her mother. While being placed on standby, she meets Jay (Justin H. Min) at a music store. He gave up being a musician after his band stole a song he wrote and changed it. The two of them begin dating, both reflecting on their past. When Nan is selected to be on the mission, a strain develops in their relationship as they wonder if their love can survive the stars.
The visuals in this film are incredible. It was colorful, lively, and truly popped off the screen. It was not just the dramatic moments or romantic scenes that blew me away, but even quiet moments had such incredible attention to detail. I was so impressed, and the animators should all get a pat on the back and applause for their hard work. I truly enjoy animated movies where they focus on the little things.
As for the story, it was such an enjoyable story. Nan-Young dreams of following in her mother’s footsteps of being an astronaut, even willing to give up her life for the process. Jay has given up on his dream and is just coasting along despite his talent. They help each other heal from their past trauma and disappointments, coming together in a meaningful way. It felt grounded and mature instead of juvenile.
I loved that dynamic. Nan-Young does not put down Jay’s musical aspirations, but encourages him. Jay does have hesitation about Nan-Young’s desires and has a moment of fear, but ultimately comes to peace with it. Conflict was handled with maturity and understanding, not unnecessary drama or lectures about privilege or power dynamics.
The sci-fi aspect was understated and mixed in well. It did not feel too far off from a possible future, nor was it too intrusive to the plot. It was just an aspect of it that worked well for the story that was being told.
Bottom line, Lost In Starlight is a romance that, despite dealing with space, felt grounded. The animation is incredible, and the story is worth exploring.
PARENTAL CONCERNS: Some foul language, Thematic elements, Minor violence, Frightening sequences
FAVORITE QUOTE: Waiting indefinitely... Honestly, sometimes, it hurts quite a bit. But if there's anything as certain as the pain, it's that I'll never give up on you. So please, don't give up on me either.
Check out the trailer below:
This review is based on the English dub.
What do you think? Let me know in the comments below. Tell me if there is a comic book, movie, anime, or novel you would like me to review.