20th Century Girl (2022)

Review Team

4/5

20th Century Girl is a delightful coming-of-age film that captures the innocence of first love with a refreshing sincerity. Directed by Bang Woo-ri, the narrative unfolds in 1999, a time that adds a nostalgic layer to the story. The film's protagonist, Bora, is tasked with learning about a boy while ... Show more >> 20th Century Girl is a delightful coming-of-age film that captures the innocence of first love with a refreshing sincerity. Directed by Bang Woo-ri, the narrative unfolds in 1999, a time that adds a nostalgic layer to the story. The film's protagonist, Bora, is tasked with learning about a boy while her friend is away for surgery, leading her into a web of emotions and unexpected connections. The performances are heartfelt, particularly from the lead, who embodies the youthful exuberance and awkwardness of adolescence. The cinematography is vibrant, reflecting the era's aesthetic, while the soundtrack enhances the emotional beats. Overall, this film is a tender portrayal of young love and friendship, making it a must-see for fans of the genre. Show less

Editor Team

3.5/5

20th Century Girl brings a sweet, nostalgic look at teenage love, but it sometimes feels like it's treading familiar ground. The plot, while engaging, follows a somewhat predictable path as Bora tries to gather intel on a crush. The charm of the film lies in its relatable characters and the awkwardn ... Show more >> 20th Century Girl brings a sweet, nostalgic look at teenage love, but it sometimes feels like it's treading familiar ground. The plot, while engaging, follows a somewhat predictable path as Bora tries to gather intel on a crush. The charm of the film lies in its relatable characters and the awkwardness of first love, which many will find endearing. However, it occasionally lacks the depth that could have made the emotional moments truly impactful. The performances are strong, and the film does a great job of capturing the late '90s vibe, but I wished for a bit more originality in the storytelling. It's a pleasant watch that captures the essence of youth, even if it doesn't break new ground. Show less