The Handmaiden

Synopsis

The Handmaiden, directed by acclaimed filmmaker Park Chan-wook and starring Kim Min-hee, is a captivating psychological thriller set in 1930s Korea under Japanese colonial rule. The story follows a young Korean woman who is hired as a handmaiden to a Japanese heiress living in a secluded mansion. However, she is secretly involved in a con to defraud the heiress of her fortune. As the plot unfolds, layers of deception, passion, and unexpected alliances come to light. The film is a beautifully crafted blend of suspense, romance, and intrigue, enriched by its sumptuous visuals, intricate storytelling, and compelling performances.

Cast

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  Kim Min-hee

  Lady Hideko

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  Kim Tae-ri

  Sook-hee

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  Ha Jung-woo

  Count Fujiwara

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  Cho Jin-woong

  Uncle Kouzuki

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  Kim Hae-sook

  Ms. Sasaki

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  Moon So-ri

  Hideko's Aunt

Reviews

The Handmaiden has been widely praised by critics and audiences alike, securing an impressive 96% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, underscoring its critical acclaim for visual style and narrative depth. The site’s consensus highlights the film as “an exquisite, erotic thriller that's as visually lush as it is narratively complex.” On IMDb, the movie boasts a strong 8.1/10 rating, reflecting positive viewer responses to its storytelling and character development. Metacritic assigns a high score of 85/100, indicating universal acclaim, with reviewers praising Park Chan-wook’s direction and the film’s daring approach to genre and sexuality. The Guardian noted the film’s “combination of sumptuous styling and compelling storytelling,” while Variety commended its “alluring and wickedly clever” narrative. However, some critics noted that the film’s intricate plot and length might challenge those seeking a straightforward thriller. Overall, The Handmaiden is regarded as a masterful work that pushes boundaries while delivering a riveting cinematic experience.