The final film starring the late actress Kim Sae-ron, the coming-of-age romance “Before We Knew,” has experienced a swift decline in box office performance in South Korea, falling out of the top ten rankings just days after its premiere. The film’s struggles highlight the challenges facing posthumous releases and the fickle nature of audience reception, even for projects based on popular source material.
“Before We Knew,” which premiered on March 4th, initially debuted at number six in the Korean box office, according to the Korea Film Council. While it briefly maintained a position within the top ten, it had completely dropped from the rankings by March 7th. As of that date, the film had only attracted a cumulative audience of 8,934 viewers, a figure that falls significantly short of expectations given the film’s origins and the tragic circumstances surrounding its star.
Based on a popular webtoon that garnered over 17 million views, the film tells the story of Yeo-ul, played by Kim Sae-ron, and Hosoo, portrayed by Lee Chae-min, as they navigate the complexities of first love during their final year of middle school. The narrative centers on a childhood friendship disrupted by a sudden confession, exploring the anxieties and uncertainties of adolescence. The film’s premise, rooted in relatable teenage experiences, initially generated considerable interest.
However, the path to release was unusually protracted. Filming was completed in 2021, but the film wasn’t released until nearly five years later. Director Kim Min-jae acknowledged the delays, stating, “It took a long time for this film to come to the world due to various circumstances. There was fear, but I’m glad it finally came out.” He also spoke of his deep admiration for Kim Sae-ron, describing her as “the best actor” he had ever worked with. “When you explained one thing, she would deliver results three times over,” he recalled, adding that her chemistry with her co-stars was exceptional. Koreaboo reported on the director’s sentiments.
A Delayed Release and a Tragic Loss
The extended delay between completion and release undoubtedly contributed to the film’s challenges. In a competitive cinematic landscape, maintaining audience anticipation over such a long period can be demanding. The tragic passing of Kim Sae-ron in August 2023 added a layer of somber reflection to the film’s release. The actress died in a car accident, prompting an outpouring of grief from fans and colleagues. The Korea Times noted the film’s release drew attention as a posthumous work.
Critical Reception and Narrative Concerns
Beyond the box office numbers, critical reception of “Before We Knew” has been mixed. While praised for its portrayal of relatable teenage emotions, some reviewers have pointed to inconsistencies in the narrative. Specifically, a scene involving a sudden physical advance by Hosoo towards Yeo-ul was described as feeling out of character, and the motivations of another character, Ho-jae, were deemed unclear. These narrative stumbles, as highlighted in reviews, may have impacted audience engagement.
The film’s focus on the ordinary lives of teenagers – shared meals, basketball games, and confiding in each other – was intended to resonate with viewers. However, some critics felt that the film’s execution lacked the necessary nuance to fully capitalize on this approach. The film’s quiet and understated tone, while aiming for authenticity, may not have been enough to draw large crowds in a market often dominated by more sensational or action-packed fare.
The Legacy of Kim Sae-ron
Despite the disappointing box office performance, “Before We Knew” remains a significant work as the final on-screen appearance of Kim Sae-ron, a promising actress whose career was tragically cut short. Director Kim Min-jae’s heartfelt tribute to her talent underscores the profound loss felt by those who worked with her. He remembered her as someone “born to act and was a beautiful friend,” expressing regret that she was no longer present to witness the film’s release.
Looking ahead, the film’s performance raises questions about the viability of posthumous releases and the challenges of marketing films with complex production histories. While the emotional weight of Kim Sae-ron’s passing undoubtedly drew some viewers, it ultimately wasn’t enough to overcome the hurdles of a delayed release and mixed critical reception. The film’s fate serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the enduring power of artistic legacy.
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