Review of A Tale of Two Sisters (2003) by Ashoka R — 29 Apr 2009

You may have to wtach this more than once in order to truly understand what is going on. "A Tale of Two Sisters" is one of the best Korean psychological thriller/horror movies that I've watched [and believe me, I've watched many]. The story centers around sisters Soo-Mi and Su-Yeon who have been away from home for awhile [undergoing treatment for an illness]. Initially they seem happy to be home, until they meet their stepmother. It is obvious the girls do not take to their stepmom, but their dad seems ignorant of the fact. Then the creepy happenings begin...

Delving further into the plot will only add to the confusion, for there are many layers to this story. Though the plot unfolds slowly, it manages to grip the viewer - and in fact, I had to watch this movie more than once in order to figure out exactly what was happening. The performances by the cast is credible, and the two girls portraying the troubled sisters are amazing. As with the actress portraying the stepmom, their vivid facial expressions provide as much clues to their emotions as the dialogue. As I watched the movie, my sympathy for them grew, but at some point, I started to question if they were characters to be sympathized with or was there a more sinister aspect to them? This is the conundrum of "A Tale of Two Sisters" - one is not sure of what is transpiring, right up until the end [and even then, all questions may not be answered, which is why I had to watch it again!].

But, it is worth watching - it's an insightful and creepy movie, a true psychological thriller which is high on atmosphere. The house itself reminds one of a spooky haunted house-type that is rich in Gothic imagery, and almost takes a life of its own. In fact, the house is as much a character in the movie as the actors. Those who love atmospheric horror stories and psychological thrillers will find lots to appreciate and dissect in this movie.