Writer-director Celina Song had humble beginnings in the film industry. She admits that before making her debut feature film, Past Lives, she didn’t even know how to read a call sheet. However, fast forward a year from the movie’s world premiere at Sundance, and Song finds herself nominated for an Original Screenplay Oscar and with her film in contention for Best Picture. For someone who was previously best known as a playwright, this recognition is both astounding and deeply gratifying.
Being nominated for an Oscar on her very first movie is what Song describes as the coolest thing. The filmmaker expresses her awe and gratitude, acknowledging every single person who has been a part of the movie or has engaged in discussions about it. The honor feels incredible to her, and she is genuinely thankful for the support and recognition she has received.
In addition to her own nomination, Song recognizes a remarkable accomplishment for female filmmakers as a whole. Past Lives is one of three films directed by women to break into the Best Picture category, alongside Anatomy of a Fall and Barbie. Song acknowledges that as a newcomer to the industry, she may not be able to comment extensively on the state of the industry, but she finds it amazing to witness this breakthrough. As a woman, she views it as a testament to the personal lived experience she infused into her film. She is simply over the moon about the achievement.
Past Lives, a semi-autobiographical feature, has garnered significant attention and acclaim. It was named one of the top ten films of 2023 by the National Board of Review and the American Film Institute. The film tells the story of Nora and Hae Sung, childhood friends torn apart when Nora’s family emigrates from South Korea. Two decades later, they are reunited in New York, where they confront destiny, love, and life’s choices. Greta Lee and Teo Yoo portray the deeply connected characters, with John Magaro playing Nora’s husband, Arthur. The film explores the extraordinary moments that occur in the lives of ordinary people, resonating with audiences on a deeply personal level. Song believes that the film’s ability to make the audience share their own stories and reflect on their own lives has contributed to its success.
Looking ahead, Song’s ultimate goal is to build a lasting career in the world of feature films. She wishes to continue making movies to the best of her ability, maintaining a strong creative mission. Song expresses her desire to remain dedicated to the craft for as long as she can, even when she is 95 years old and barely making it to the set. She sees it as her way of giving back for the incredible honors she has received for her debut film. Song’s determination is evident in her commitment to doing her best and continuously pushing forward.
Produced by David Hinojosa, Christine Vachon, and Pamela Koffler, Past Lives is not only an Oscar nominee for Best Picture but also faces strong competition from other acclaimed films such as American Fiction, Anatomy of a Fall, Barbie, The Holdovers, Killers of the Flower Moon, Maestro, Oppenheimer, Poor Things, and The Zone of Interest. In the Original Screenplay category, Song’s screenplay will be up against works by Justine Tries and Arthur Harari (Anatomy of a Fall), David Hemingson (The Holdovers), Bradley Cooper and Josh Singer (Maestro), and Samy Burch (May December).
The Oscars ceremony, scheduled for March 10, will be held at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood and marks an important milestone in Celina Song’s burgeoning career as a filmmaker. Her journey from a playwright to an Oscar nominee is a testament to her talent and dedication, and her film, Past Lives, stands as a celebration of the power of connection and the resonance of shared human experiences.
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