Review of The Housemaid (2010) by Jennifer F — 06 Sep 2011
It is not often that a film leaves me stunned. The Housemaid is a sinisterly beautiful example of the best of foreign film and what is so lacking in Hollywood, land of the remakes (and much of American film in general.
) It is no surprise that it is inspired/a remake of a 1960 film, one which I have admit to having heard great reviews of but never seeing, as it has until recently been a difficult one to find. That is meant in the best way, as it has the psychological element and tone and mood found in many of my favorite French, Italian, and other foreign cinemas of the 50s and 60s.
I would put it alongside the somewhat more known (by American audiences) movies of Pedro Almodovar for the ability to grip you with a blend of suspense, psychological study, the use of a fair dose of graphic sexuality, both raw and stylistic, (more noticeable to American audiences I assume) and ability to take a twist.
Throw in a finale worthy of David Lynch for the surreal--not satisfying to some, but resonate with me. From its slow burning yet effectively paced plot to an amazing score to a shocking and disturbing final act, this film proves that great films are out there if you're only willing to read some subtitles.
More Korean films in wider distribution please! Another note, I cannot wait to get my hands on a copy of "Hanyo", the 1960 inspiration. If it is anywhere close to meeting the hype as one of the greatest Korean films and darkly and stylistically superior to this one, I am in for a true masterpiece.
That is the best compliment I think any remake can get.
This review of The Housemaid (2010) was written by Jennifer F on 06 Sep 2011.
The Housemaid has generally received positive reviews.
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