Review of The Handmaiden (2016) by Bob K — 28 Oct 2016
Three years ago I raved about Snowpiercer, calling it my favorite film of the year. Last night I saw The Handmaiden, not realizing that it was also directed by Park Chan-wook. I expected a Korean-flavored period drama, somewhat racier than a Merchant-Ivory film, based on brief descriptions, and prudent reviews that did not give much away.
What I saw was my favorite film for 2016 (so far), an extraordinary erotic caper film that was more beautiful, dark and sensual by far than anything I've seen in years. Utterly engrossing from the first frame, I wish so much that I spoke Korean and Japanese so that I wouldn't have to move my eyes to the subtitles, and break the mesmerism.
Moments of this movie are disturbing and deeply weird, but if that isn't off-putting, seek this one out.
This review of The Handmaiden (2016) was written by Bob K on 28 Oct 2016.
The Handmaiden has generally received very positive reviews.
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