'The Girl We Liked That Year' Brings First Love to Life with Jinyoung and Dahyun

'The Girl We Liked That Year' (그 시절, 우리가 좋아했던 소녀) is set to capture the essence of first love as Jinyoung (진영) and Dahyun (다현) grace the screen with their youthful charm. The film, which held its press screening on February 19 at CGV Yongsan I'Park Mall in Seoul, features the lead actors alongside director Jo Young-myung (조영명).

This movie, adapted from the popular Taiwanese film of the same name starring Kai Ko (가인동) and Michelle Chen (천옌시), tells the story of Jinwoo (진우), played by Jinyoung, who spends countless days pining for Sunah (선아), portrayed by Dahyun, before finally confessing his feelings at the age of eighteen.

'The Girl We Liked That Year' is set to release in South Korea and Indonesia, followed by screenings in Thailand on March 6, the Philippines on March 12, and subsequently in Taiwan, Singapore, Malaysia, and Hong Kong. The film will also debut in South America, starting with Brazil, and Vietnam's CGV is expected to take a more aggressive distribution approach, raising hopes for a successful global box office performance.

Jinyoung expressed his initial apprehension upon receiving the casting offer, admitting he was a fan of the original work. He stated, "I thought a lot about how I could bring my own feelings into the role, and after being cast, I refrained from watching the original to focus on my own emotions and memories from that age."

Dahyun shared her admiration for the original film, noting, "It’s one of my favorite movies. After reading the script, I decided not to watch the original again to portray Sunah in my own way. The director also helped me express the character."

The chemistry between Jinyoung and Dahyun was evident as they prepared for their first collaboration. Jinyoung mentioned, "We had many discussions to express our characters fully, reflecting on childhood emotions. I found it frustrating that Jinwoo couldn’t just confess his feelings directly, which is relatable to that time in life."

Dahyun added, "Before filming, we rented a rehearsal space for script readings and discussions with the director. I felt a great connection with Jinyoung, and I’m grateful for the experience."

After a six-year hiatus from the big screen since 'My Annoying Brother' (내안의 그놈), Jinyoung expressed his joy in returning to film, saying, "I’ve wanted to act in movies, and this project made me very happy. It felt like a fresh start, and I was both excited and nervous."

Dahyun, who began her acting career after nine years with TWICE, shared her excitement for her debut film role, stating, "I’m thrilled and anxious about how audiences will receive it. I’ve always dreamed of being an actress, and I’m grateful for the opportunity that came my way last year."

When asked about moments of excitement during filming, Jinyoung revealed, "I often felt excited. At one point, I told Dahyun, 'You look just like Sunah now.' That feeling of excitement grew as we worked together."

Dahyun reflected on her favorite scene, saying, "Every moment was thrilling, especially when Sunah stands up to the teacher and shares a laugh while crying. It symbolizes how Jinwoo expands her world and creates shared memories."

The film features Jinyoung's real-life parents, Park Sung-woong (박성웅) and Shin Eun-jung (신은정), who play his on-screen parents, adding a unique touch to the film. Jinyoung expressed gratitude for their participation, despite the challenges of filming intimate scenes.

Director Jo Young-myung explained the casting choice, saying, "I wanted to express genuine emotions without exaggeration. Since Jinyoung was close to them, it felt natural to cast them as a real couple, which added authenticity to the family dynamic."

Jinyoung praised Dahyun, saying, "As a senior, I wanted to support her. I was impressed by her performance, especially in a challenging scene. I shared insights from my experiences to help her."

Dahyun acknowledged Jinyoung's support, stating, "Everything was new to me, and he provided invaluable guidance throughout the process. I felt secure working alongside him."

Dahyun also mentioned that her TWICE members are eagerly anticipating the film, expressing their excitement in their group chat. She shared that they plan to attend the premiere to show their support.

'The Girl We Liked That Year' is set to hit theaters on February 21.