“What is cinema? Is it a beautiful lie, or beautifully told lie? Each director answers this differently. If there’s a name for a film that deceives you thrice over with the truth, it’s called ‘The Handmaiden.’ Directed by Park Chan-wook, who also made ‘Old Boy,’ it challenges moral norms fiercely.
Cast and Crew of “The Handmaiden”
Cast:
Kim Min-hee as Lady Hideko
Kim Tae-ri as Sook-hee
Ha Jung-woo as Count Fujiwara
Cho Jin-woong as Uncle Kouzuki
Kim Hae-sook as Aunt of Lady Hideko
Moon So-ri as Fraudulent fortune teller
Lee Dong-hwi as Fake nobleman
Jo Eun-hyung as Maid Ok-ju
Lee Yong-nyeo as Head maid Baek-hwa
Lee Kyu-jung as Nam-joo
Park Chan-wook as Crooked bookstore owner (cameo)
Crew:
Director: Park Chan-wook
Screenplay: Chung Seo-kyung, Park Chan-wook
Producer: Park Chan-wook, Syd Lim
Cinematography: Chung Chung-hoon
Music: Cho Young-wuk
Production Design: Ryu Seong-hee
Costume Design: Cho Sang-kyung
Editing: Kim Sang-bum, Kim Jae-bum
What’s the story?
Set during Japan’s colonial rule over Korea, the film visualizes events surrounding a plot within a palace to deceive a wealthy heiress. What happens to the artist and the maid who step into this deception?
How’s the film?
It continuously challenges your mind and questions your morality. Do your virtues truly hold value? While I won’t spoil the plot, the way characters are developed is brilliant. A story of a lady, her erotic tales captivating a group of men, all slaves serving them. None of the characters are perfect, making it hard to sympathize consistently. Sympathize too soon, and you might just end up pitying yourself.
This one scene…
When the artist rolls his favorite cigarette on a woman’s nude drawing and smokes it, it feels like he’s inhaling his own desires.
Technically speaking…
The visual and technical execution is exceptional, perfectly capturing the 1930s setting. The lighting perfectly matches the atmospheric needs of Japan and Korea, reflecting a blend of both cultures.
Better watched alone…
As the background scores transport you elsewhere, it’s best watched alone, immersing fully into the erotic emotional scenes. Each actor, regardless of role size, performs exceptionally, truly embodying their characters.
Lastly…
If you can get through the first 20 minutes, the next 2 hours and 28 minutes will fly by. Check out the remastered extended version (2 hours and 48 minutes) available on Amazon Prime. #TheHandmaiden #KoreanMovie #Lesbian #AllTimeClassics
Rating: 4/5″
“The Handmaiden” FAQ
Q: What is “The Handmaiden” about?
A: “The Handmaiden” is a film directed by Park Chan-wook, known for “Oldboy.” It explores the intricate world of deception and desire against the backdrop of Japan-occupied Korea. The plot revolves around a master forger who must deceive wealthy heirs, leading to a web of manipulation, romance, and ethical dilemmas.
Q: What makes “The Handmaiden” unique?
A: The film’s uniqueness lies in its ability to question the audience’s sense of morality and integrity. Each character, from the master forger to the wealthy heiresses, challenges conventional notions of right and wrong. The story is a blend of intense romantic plots, skilled manipulation, and flawed characters, creating a thought-provoking experience.
Q: How is the technical aspect of the film?
A: Technically, “The Handmaiden” is visually stunning. The 1930s setting is meticulously recreated, with impeccable lighting adding to the film’s atmosphere. The fusion of Japan’s aesthetic with Korea’s sensibilities is vividly portrayed, creating a captivating visual experience.
Q: What are some must-see moments in the film?
A: One memorable scene involves a character rolling handmade cigarettes on paper, juxtaposed with a woman’s nude portrait as she smokes, exuding tension and emotion. These moments of emotional turmoil are beautifully depicted throughout the film.
Q: Is “The Handmaiden” suitable for everyone?
A: The film contains mature themes, including manipulation, romance, and ethical dilemmas. Viewer discretion is advised, especially for those sensitive to explicit content.
Q: Where can I watch “The Handmaiden”?
A: “The Handmaiden” is currently available on Amazon Prime, offering an extended remastered version for an immersive viewing experience.
Q: What is the rating for “The Handmaiden”?
A: The film has received a rating of 4 out of 5 stars, reflecting its compelling storytelling, intricate characters, and stunning visuals.
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