“The Handmaiden”: A Psychological Thriller with a Queer Twist

“The Handmaiden” is a 2016 South Korean psychological thriller film directed by the acclaimed Park Chan-wook. Set in colonial Korea during the 1930s, the film tells the story of Sook-Hee, a young woman who is hired as a handmaiden to a wealthy Japanese heiress named Lady Hideko. However, Sook-Hee is actually a pickpocket working with a con man named Count Fujiwara, who has orchestrated a scheme to defraud Lady Hideko and steal her fortune. As the story progresses, the relationship between Sook-Hee and Lady Hideko becomes increasingly complex and multi-layered, as both women have their own secrets and agendas.

A Plot That Will Keep You Guessing

“The Handmaiden” is widely praised for its intricate and twisting plot that keeps the audience guessing until the very end. The film explores themes of class, gender, and sexuality in a way that is both subtle and powerful. The film portrays the exploitation and oppression faced by the lower class and women in a society under the rule of a foreign power, and the ways in which these characters navigate their situations, and how they find ways to resist and assert their agency.

Visually Stunning Cinematography

The film is also known for its visually stunning cinematography, which captures the opulence of the setting and the lush landscapes of Japan and Korea. The cinematography adds to the overall aesthetic of the film and sets the perfect stage for the story to unfold.

Powerful Performances

The film features strong performances from its cast, particularly the lead actresses, Kim Tae-ri and Kim Min-hee. Their performances are praised for their depth and complexity, adding to the overall impact of the film.

A Queer Theme

The Handmaiden explores the theme of sexual identity, especially in the relationship between Sook-Hee and Lady Hideko and also shows the struggles of coming out and acceptance of sexual identity in a society where it is not accepted.

Critical and Commercial Success

Upon its release, “The Handmaiden” was a critical and commercial success, receiving multiple award nominations and wins. It was selected as the South Korean entry for the Best Foreign Language Film at the 89th Academy Awards, and was also nominated for the Palme d’Or at the 2016 Cannes Film Festival. The film received widespread critical acclaim and has since gained a cult following among audiences around the world.

Adaptations

For fans of the novel, it’s worth noting that there is also a TV mini-series adaptation of “Fingersmith” that aired in 2005, which tells the same story but with a different interpretation and take on the characters and themes.

If you haven’t seen it yet, “The Handmaiden” is definitely worth checking out. With its intricate plot, stunning cinematography, and powerful performances, it’s sure to keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.