Erotic Films: The Handmaiden, dir. Park Chan-wook

Zero and The Wiz RECOMMEND The Handmaiden

The Handmaiden is a film where many things can go wrong: One character change, one twist, one story point can mess up the intricately created plot that makes the film run. As much as people beg for films with ambitions, if one thing go awry, the entire film falls apart. The fact that The Handmaiden not only doesn't falter, it excels with its excellent story about subterfuge and perversion. The film can be described in one word: twisty. By the time the film ends, several twists have happened throughout the story that it isn't what you expected by the end of the film. But each twist is executed flawlessly, making the narrative incredibly deep and compelling. Another great aspect of the film is the cinematography and direction. Park Chan-wook creates a world that mixes period dramas, fairy tales and sadistic sexual literature. The film has a feel that feels fantastic while still being incredibly personal, giving the film a very distinct feel in several aspects of the film. And the film was one magnificent performance: Kim Min-hee gives an incredible performance as Lady Hideko. Her character goes through several character evolutions and Min-hee expertly executes the role that is dynamic and incredibly believable. The Handmaiden is a film that, if you can handle the sexual nature of the film, is a film that you should make an appointment to see if you have yet to. The film is of a mythic quality that should be considered the best in the last 20 years, and to some it is. But it honestly should be seen by more...an unforgettable experience.