For many movie lovers, the films of the 1980s evoke a special nostalgia. Movies like those produced by John Hughes and similar filmmakers created memorable characters and plots that, while sometimes problematic by today’s standards, still resonate deeply. These films established familiar archetypes—popular kids, jocks, nerds, and authority figures—that shaped how audiences viewed high school life on screen.
When a new Netflix original, Love Untangled, climbed the streaming charts, it was clear this teen romance deserved attention. Set in 1998, the film follows Park Se-ri (Shin Eun-soo), a high school student whose life is dominated by one simple goal: to straighten her perpetually frizzy hair before making a life-changing confession.
The film’s premise centers on Se-ri, a 19-year-old twin, who believes her curly hair is the reason she can’t snag a boyfriend. While her sister enjoys effortless straight locks and romantic success, Se-ri spends hours in the bathroom trying to manage her thick, curly mane. The narrative unfolds as Se-ri becomes infatuated with the school’s most popular boy, Han Hyun, while simultaneously forming a genuine connection with the quiet transfer student Han Yun-seok (Gong Myoung).
Love Untangled masterfully balances its nostalgic teen comedy elements with surprising emotional depth. While the hair obsession initially appears to be the central plot device, the film gradually reveals a richer story exploring social biases, family struggles, and the complexities of teenage relationships. The characters evolve beyond their initial archetypes, particularly Yun-seok, whose backstory adds emotional weight to the narrative.
The film’s greatest strength lies in its authentic portrayal of the developing relationship between Se-ri and Yun-seok. Shin Eun-soo brings vibrant energy to her role, while Gong Myoung provides quiet intensity that captivates viewers. As the story progresses, the tone shifts from lighthearted romantic comedy to a more emotional drama that explores themes of belonging, family, and self-acceptance.
Love Untangled proves that the teen movie genre can still deliver heartfelt storytelling with depth and authenticity. It honors the nostalgia of classic ’80s films while adding emotional complexity and modern sensibilities. This charming Netflix original combines the best elements of nostalgic filmmaking with contemporary storytelling, resulting in a truly memorable cinematic experience.
In a world where streaming platforms offer endless content, Love Untangled stands out as a rare gem—a nostalgic teen film that honors its genre while delivering emotional depth and authentic storytelling
