love4livi.com – “Be with You” (지금 만나러 갑니다, Jigeum Mannareo Gamnida, literally “Now I Will Meet You”), a 2018 South Korean romantic drama film directed by Lee Jang-hoon, is a remake of the 2004 Japanese film of the same name. Starring So Ji-sub and Son Ye-jin (reuniting after “The Classic”), the film tells a touching story about a widowed man who is miraculously reunited with his deceased wife.
A Promise of Return
The film centers around Woo-jin (So Ji-sub), a single father raising his young son Ji-ho (Kim Ji-hwan) after the death of his beloved wife, Soo-ah (Son Ye-jin). Before her passing, Soo-ah makes a promise to return during the rainy season.
Ji-ho, believing his mother’s promise, eagerly awaits the arrival of the rainy season, convinced that she will come back. Woo-jin, while trying to gently manage his son’s expectations, still deeply grieves his wife’s absence.
A Miraculous Reunion
As the rainy season begins, a miracle occurs: Soo-ah reappears, just as she promised. However, she has no memory of her past, including her marriage to Woo-jin and their son.
Woo-jin and Ji-ho are overjoyed by her return, but they must navigate the delicate situation of reintroducing themselves to a woman who has lost her memories. Woo-jin patiently recounts their love story, hoping to rekindle the spark they once shared.
Rekindling a Lost Love
As Woo-jin shares memories of their past, Soo-ah gradually begins to reconnect with the life she once knew. She rediscovers the love she had for Woo-jin and the bond she shares with her son. The film beautifully portrays the process of rebuilding their relationship, filled with tender moments and heartwarming interactions.
The time they have together during the rainy season is precious and fleeting, as they know Soo-ah’s return is temporary. This knowledge adds a layer of poignancy to their interactions, making each moment they share even more meaningful.
A Twist of Fate and Deeper Meaning
As the rainy season draws to a close, the film reveals a significant twist that adds a deeper layer of meaning to Soo-ah’s return. This revelation recontextualizes the entire story, highlighting the enduring power of love and the sacrifices people make for those they cherish.
Themes of Love, Loss, and Family
“Be with You” explores several profound themes:
- Love Beyond Death: The film suggests that love can transcend the boundaries of life and death. Soo-ah’s return, even in a limited capacity, demonstrates the enduring power of her love for Woo-jin and Ji-ho.
- The Importance of Memory: The film emphasizes the role of memory in shaping our identities and relationships. Soo-ah’s amnesia highlights how crucial memories are to our sense of self.
- Parental Love and Sacrifice: Both Woo-jin and Soo-ah demonstrate the depth of their love for their son, making sacrifices to ensure his happiness and well-being.
- The Acceptance of Loss: The film also touches upon the theme of accepting loss and finding ways to cope with grief.
A Touching and Emotional Journey
“Be with You” is a beautifully crafted and emotionally resonant film that explores themes of love, loss, and the enduring power of human connection. The performances of So Ji-sub and Son Ye-jin are captivating, bringing depth and sincerity to their characters. The film’s heartwarming story and poignant message have resonated with audiences worldwide, making it a beloved modern classic.