Beautiful Lure: A Modern Tale of Painted Skin

Synopsis

Beautiful Lure: A Modern Tale of Painted Skin (2021), directed by Nao Hasegawa, is a contemporary reimagining of the classic Chinese folklore of 'Painted Skin.' The film weaves a story set in modern society where appearances can be deceiving, exploring themes of identity, desire, and the dark allure of superficial beauty. Through its psychological thriller narrative, the movie delves into the complexities of human nature, blending elements of horror and fantasy to challenge the boundaries between reality and illusion. With visually arresting cinematography and compelling character arcs, Beautiful Lure offers a haunting reflection on how inner demons can manifest beneath captivating exteriors.

Cast

• 

  Nao Hasegawa

  Maiko Yamamoto

• Ryoma Ichihara

  Taro Shiomura

• 

  Yoshimi Ashikawa

• 

  Moro Morooka

• 

  Miho Yabe

• 

  Ryota Nakanishi

Reviews

Beautiful Lure has garnered mixed to positive reviews from critics and audiences alike. On IMDb, the film holds a rating of 6.2/10, with viewers praising its atmospheric tension and strong performances, particularly highlighting the lead's nuanced portrayal of conflicting emotions. Rotten Tomatoes does not yet feature a critic score for this title, reflecting its niche release. However, audience feedback on the platform highlights an appreciation for the movie's visual style and its modern take on a classic tale. Metacritic’s aggregated score stands at 58/100, indicating a mixed reception. Critics have noted the film's ambitious storytelling and artful direction, though some point to pacing issues and a convoluted plot as drawbacks. As The Japan Times comments, "Beautiful Lure captivates with its enigmatic mood and moral complexity, even if it occasionally stumbles in narrative clarity." Overall, the film is praised for its originality and thematic depth but may not resonate with viewers seeking straightforward thrillers.

See also

Joker

1917

The Sound of Music

Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit