[FILM REVIEW] Your Letter (2025)

There is something quietly nostalgic about Your Letter — the kind that tugs at forgotten corners of childhood. From the first few minutes, we could already tell it was not just another cute animated film — it is one that lingers even after the credits roll. Directed by Kim Yong-hwan and adapted from Hyeon A. Cho’s webtoon, the story follows So-ri, a transfer student who discovers a trail of mysterious letters hidden inside her new classroom desk. What begins as a playful treasure hunt soon unfolds into a tender, rich story about friendship, courage, and the lingering impact of kindness.

At its heart, Your Letter is a coming-of-age story, but one that does not shy away from showing the complexities of growing up. The film handles bullying with rare honesty — and we appreciated that it does not just present it as a conflict that gets neatly resolved. It shows the ripple effects of standing up for someone: sometimes, defending another can bear the scary consequences of making you a target yourself. Watching So-ri navigate that delicate terrain had a certain rawness to it that is usually glossed over in many shows. Courage is not always glamorous — sometimes it’s uncomfortable, messy, and even risky — and the film does a wonderful job conveying that.

The animation and cinematography are definitely highlights of the film. Every scene feels carefully crafted, from sun-dappled classrooms to the quiet glow of evening streets. The scenery has a softness that makes it almost tangible, and the little details — a fluttering note, a child’s expression, the sunlight on a playground elevate even simple moments. The OST complements the visuals beautifully: subtle, moving, and never overbearing, perfectly underscoring moments of joy, tension, and reflection.

The treasure-hunt element adds a layer of nostalgic charm. Watching So-ri and Dong-soon chase clues around the school evokes memories of childhood adventures — the thrill of discovery, the joy of secret games, and how the small and simple can lead to wonder. This playful element grounds the film in the innocence of youth, balancing the heavier emotional beats with lighthearted warmth.

What truly makes Your Letter memorable is its portrayal of friendship. Ho-yeon’s memories of So-ri — how she included him despite him being an awkward kid, not pushing him but cautiously venturing into his space show how seemingly small acts can leave a lifelong impact. Even years later, those gestures shape who he becomes, reminding the audience that kindness is never wasted.

Equally heartwarming is the bond between Ho-yeon and Dong-soon, a quiet friendship rooted in loyalty and understanding. Their interactions show that meaningful relationships do not always need dramatic declarations; sometimes, simply being present and consistent is enough. This emphasis on the subtle, lasting power of friendship is what gives the film its emotional depth.

By the end, we were (almost) in tears. Your Letter is not just heartwarming — it is honest. It balances the realities of school bullying with the hope and growth that can come from empathy and courage. It is a reminder that kindness often requires bravery, and that the smallest gestures can echo far beyond the moment.

With breathtaking animation, a moving soundtrack, and a story that treats both childhood and friendship with care, Your Letter is a film that stays with the viewer. It shows that courage, empathy, and love — no matter how small — can leave an imprint that lasts a lifetime.

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Running Time: 96 minutes
The Seoul Story’s Rating: 3.5/5 

Written by: Anna Wong
Photos by: Purple Plan SG

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