Netflix's upcoming romantic film "Love Untangled" continues the streaming platform's recent trend of promoting self-love and acceptance, echoing themes similar to those found in the global phenomenon "K-Pop Demon Hunters." The movie centers around the journey of a young woman learning to embrace her natural appearance while navigating the complexities of teenage romance.
Set against the backdrop of Busan in 1998, the film tells the story of Se-ri, portrayed by actress Shin Eun-soo, a love-struck 19-year-old determined to straighten her perpetually frizzy hair. Her ultimate goal is to perfect her appearance before confessing her feelings to her high school crush, Kim Hyun, played by Cha Woo-min. The nostalgic 1990s setting provides a charming framework for exploring universal themes of adolescent self-consciousness and the pressure to conform to beauty standards.
During a press conference held in Seoul on Monday, director Namkoong Sun explained that Se-ri's hair serves as both the backbone of the film's plot and the vehicle for its central message of self-acceptance. "Her hair condition, which she can't control, is her biggest complex and the origin of her pain," the director stated. She acknowledged that while it's natural for teenagers to become fixated on their appearance and struggle with self-acceptance, the film aims to challenge this mindset by asking fundamental questions about the necessity of change.
"I thought we could at least raise the question of whether she really needs to change it," the director emphasized, highlighting the movie's core message about learning to appreciate oneself as they are. This theme of overcoming shame to discover self-love mirrors sentiments expressed recently by Maggie Kang, creator of the hit series "K-Pop Demon Hunters." During a press event last week, Kang explained that this message was central to her protagonist Rumi, who learns to embrace the "demon" patterns she had always kept hidden from others.
The film features actor Gong Myoung as Yoon-seok, a transfer student from Seoul who brings a fresh dynamic to the story. Initially portrayed as cynical with a mysterious past, his character undergoes significant development as he becomes involved in Se-ri's plan to confess to her crush Hyun. However, his involvement takes an unexpected turn when he finds himself falling for Se-ri instead, creating a classic love triangle that drives the romantic tension throughout the film.
Gong Myoung, who has had a particularly busy year with notable roles in other high-profile productions including Netflix's "Mercy For None" and Disney's "Way Back Love," expressed his enthusiasm for the project during the press conference. "The film is sweet, charming and lovely," he said, describing how the movie appealed to him on a personal level. "This is exactly the kind of film I've wanted to see as an audience member," he added, noting that his role represents "the most youthful portrayal" he could possibly deliver.
"Love Untangled" marks the third feature film for director Namkoong Sun, who has been steadily building her reputation in the industry. She first gained critical acclaim with her 2021 independent debut "Ten Month," followed by her second film "Time to Be Strong," which was released last year. This latest project represents her continued exploration of coming-of-age themes and personal growth narratives.
The film is scheduled to premiere this Friday on Netflix, making it available to the platform's global audience. With its blend of nostalgic 1990s atmosphere, relatable teenage struggles, and uplifting message about self-acceptance, "Love Untangled" appears poised to resonate with viewers who appreciate heartfelt romantic comedies with deeper meaning.
