This Korean Remake Made Me Cry More Than the Original—Here's Why
Korean romance film "Once We Were Us" (만약에 우리, lit. "What If We") is quietly yet powerfully capturing audiences' hearts at theaters.
According to industry reports, the film surpassed 1 million viewers on January 11, just days after its December 31 release last year.
On opening day, it secured second place at the box office, overtaking "Zootopia 2," signaling a smooth start. Within seven days of release, it surpassed "Avatar: Fire and Ash" to claim the number one spot at the box office in a remarkable comeback. With steady word-of-mouth and growing interest, "Once We Were Us" is now approaching its break-even point and maintaining a stable box office run.
A Korean Remake of a Beloved Chinese Netflix Film
What makes "Once We Were Us" even more intriguing is that it's an official remake of the Chinese Netflix film "Us and Them" (2018, original title: 后来的我们).
As a remake, the two films share many similarities. The most notable element is their visual composition:
- The present timeline is shown in black and white
- Past memories are portrayed in color
This has become a signature visual device for both films.
This inverted cinematography technique creates a clearer contrast between present and past. It also seems to suggest that the past days—when they had nothing but each other—shine brighter than their current lives, which have achieved some degree of stability and success.
Where the Two Films Diverge
Despite sharing a similar story structure, the emotional cores of the two films are distinctly different.
- The Chinese original "Us and Them" roots the cause of separation deeply in reality. Economic pressure, career setbacks, and the weight of adult life intertwine with love, offering a perspective that goes beyond just a person's romance to illuminate their entire life.
- In contrast, the Korean remake "Once We Were Us" focuses more on the love of youth itself. The story centers on the emotional misalignments, misunderstandings, and timing issues commonly experienced in relationships during one's twenties.
Because of this difference, many viewers feel that the remake doesn't fully surpass the depth of the original. This is a common limitation when remaking a film that left a strong impression.
Still, It's Meaningful Enough as a 'Korean Romance Film'
Nevertheless, "Once We Were Us" isn't a film that must be compared to the original to be enjoyed.
As a Korean romance film on its own, it quietly portrays:
- Youth's love and separation
- The regrets left behind
- The importance of family and parental love woven throughout the story's foundation
Rather than pushing emotions to extremes, it's a film that allows audiences to calmly reflect on their past relationships. The way it brings to mind not just romantic partners but also friends and family from various angles is part of this film's charm.
After watching this film, some viewers may recall not just past loves but Korea itself as a place.
If you ever get the chance to visit Korea, you might find yourself wanting to visit a place called Goheung in Jeollanam-do Province, to try a bowl of guljjamppong kalguksu (oyster noodle soup) or fresh sannakji (live octopus).
Official trailer: "Once We Were Us" showcasing the signature cinematography
Finally, I'd like to share a few Korean audience reviews: