Watch Where We Begin

Where We Begin is a 2020 drama film that showcases the timeless story of two individuals who find love and compromise despite coming from different socio-economic backgrounds. This feature was directed and written by Mitsuyo Miyazaki, starring a relatively unknown cast, including Joshua Kwak, A Leslie Kies, Rawle D. Lewis. The movie's basic premise is relatively simple. The story follows a young man named Joe, played by Joshua Kwak, who has recently moved to the United States from Korea to pursue his dreams of becoming a dancer. A chance encounter with a talented pianist named June, played by A Leslie Kies, leads Joe down a path of romance and self-discovery.

Joe and June could not have come from more different worlds. As a Korean immigrant, Joe has little money and works as a dishwasher at a restaurant to make ends meet. Despite this, he works tirelessly to perfect his craft as a dancer and develops feelings for June after seeing her play at a small concert.

June, on the other hand, is from a wealthy suburban family and has everything going for her. She is a talented pianist and a straight-A student. However, her family is putting immense pressure on her to pursue a career in law, which is not aligned with her passion for music.

The movie portrays their love story as passionate and beautiful, but also laced with a series of challenges that test their love for each other. Most significantly, the two come from different socio-economic backgrounds, which they must navigate to sustain their relationship.

Where We Begin manages to go beyond its predictable premise, capturing the essence of human connection and the struggles that come with cultural and social differences. The film explores themes, such as familial pressure, sacrifice, hard work, and ambition, which are challenges faced by people from diverse backgrounds across the globe.

The direction and writing by Miyazaki are what make this film so heart-rending. The lead characters' development is organic and relatable, with their conversations ranging from passionately discussing the arts to the conflicting realities of their respective lives.

The film's cinematography is also noteworthy, with the scenes shot in an understated yet captivating way. The backdrop of the New York City skyline and the use of soft music and ambient sound makes the film all the more engaging.

But the film's standout element is undoubtedly the performances of the lead actors. The chemistry between Kwak and Kies is electric, their performances so nuanced and vulnerable that it's impossible not to empathize with their characters' plight. Rawle D. Lewis also delivers an impressive and emotional performance as June's supportive but demanding father, adding to the film's depth.

The movie is not perfect, however. A few supporting characters feel underdeveloped, existing only to inspire Joe and June's journey forward. The story's predictable nature also throws in some inevitability, making certain scenes feel simplistic.

Despite this, Where We Begin is a beautifully crafted film that belongs in the ranks of modern romantic dramas that explore relevant social issues. The movie's conclusion leaves the viewer with a sense of optimism and a deeper understanding of what it means to strive for your dreams while reconciling with your past and present.

In conclusion, Where We Begin is a poignant and inspiring film that delivers on excellent performances, cinematography, and storytelling. The movie's theme of two people from different backgrounds falling in love amid the pressure of society and their families is both relatable and moving, making this movie a must-watch for anyone who knows the pain and joy of struggling for their dreams.

Where We Begin is a 2020 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 12 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 8.2.