Review of The Handmaiden (2016) by Frank C — 07 Mar 2017
A gripping, erotic drama typical of the director Park Chan-wook (of Oldboy fame), The Handmaiden reminds us of the thrills and surprises offered by Korean cinema today, especially with the unstoppable Park and his colleague Bong Joon-ho.
The film makes the most adapting its source material, choosing an appropriate and beautiful historical setting. This sets up the stunning cinematography and production design viewers are treated to, from mansion interiors to lush gardens. While Park is known for the violence of his Vengeance trilogy, The Handmaiden is more interest in the carnal desires of men and women, and Park shows he can depict sex just as well as violence.
One would be remiss not to mention the incredible performances that carry the film through its three acts. Kim Min-hee, Kim Tae-ri, and Ha Jung-woo all share the acclaim, and I hope to see them collaborate in future films with Park. And again, as with Oldboy, another indispensably great album from Jo Yeong-wook. At a runtime nearing 2.5 hours, The Handmaiden demands your continued attention, and it certainly gets it.
This review of The Handmaiden (2016) was written by Frank C on 07 Mar 2017.
The Handmaiden has generally received very positive reviews.
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