Detailed Summary
Introduction and Setting
The Handmaiden is a 2016 South Korean psychological thriller film directed by Park Chan-wook, based on the novel Fingersmith by Sarah Waters. The film stars Kim Min-hee, Kim Tae-ri, Ha Jung-woo, and Cho Jin-woong. Set in 1930s Korea during the Japanese occupation, the film tells the story of a young woman hired as a handmaiden to a Japanese heiress but secretly involved in a plot to defraud her.
The Story Unfolds
Part One: Sook-hee’s Perspective
The film begins with Sook-hee (Kim Tae-ri), a pickpocket raised by a family of con artists, being recruited by a conman who poses as a Japanese Count named Fujiwara (Ha Jung-woo). Fujiwara plans to marry Lady Hideko (Kim Min-hee), a wealthy Japanese heiress, and then commit her to an asylum to steal her fortune. Sook-hee is hired as Hideko’s handmaiden to help manipulate her into marrying Fujiwara. Sook-hee and Hideko develop a close relationship, with Sook-hee gradually becoming conflicted about her role in the deception.
Part Two: Hideko’s Perspective
In the second part, the story is retold from Hideko’s perspective, revealing her traumatic past and the abusive treatment she suffered under her uncle, Kouzuki (Cho Jin-woong), who forces her to read erotic literature to his guests. It is revealed that Hideko is aware of the con and has her own plans to escape her uncle’s control. Hideko and Sook-hee’s relationship deepens into a romantic and sexual bond, and they conspire to turn the tables on Fujiwara and Kouzuki.
The Climax and Resolution
The Double Cross
Hideko and Sook-hee successfully deceive Fujiwara, leading him to believe that he has outsmarted them. They manage to outwit him and escape with Hideko’s fortune. Fujiwara is captured by Kouzuki and tortured, while Sook-hee and Hideko flee together, destroying evidence of their plot.
The Conclusion
A New Beginning
The film concludes with Sook-hee and Hideko starting a new life together, free from the men who sought to control and exploit them. They find solace and happiness in their love and newfound freedom.
Movie Ending
The Handmaiden ends with Sook-hee and Hideko successfully escaping their oppressive pasts and starting a new life together, symbolizing liberation and the triumph of love and ingenuity over manipulation and abuse.
Post-Credits Scene
There are no post-credits scenes in The Handmaiden.
Type of Movie
The Handmaiden is a psychological thriller and romantic drama that combines elements of mystery, suspense, and eroticism, focusing on themes of deception, control, and liberation.
Cast
- Kim Min-hee as Lady Hideko
- Kim Tae-ri as Sook-hee
- Ha Jung-woo as Count Fujiwara
- Cho Jin-woong as Uncle Kouzuki
Film Music and Composer
Jo Yeong-wook composed the film’s score, enhancing the atmospheric and emotional depth of the narrative.
Filming Locations
The team filmed The Handmaiden in various locations across South Korea and built elaborate sets to recreate the opulent Japanese-style mansion central to the story.
Awards and Nominations
The Handmaiden received numerous prestigious awards and nominations, including:
- Cannes Film Festival: Nominated for the Palme d’Or. Won the Vulcan Award of the Technical Artist.
- British Academy Film Awards (BAFTA): Nominated for Best Film Not in the English Language.
- Asian Film Awards: Won Best Film, Best Newcomer (Kim Tae-ri), Best Supporting Actress (Moon So-ri), Best Screenplay, and Best Production Design.
- Blue Dragon Film Awards: Won Best Director, Best Art Direction, Best Music, and Best Supporting Actress (Moon So-ri).
Behind the Scenes Insights
- Director Park Chan-wook meticulously adapted the source material, relocating the setting from Victorian England to 1930s Korea under Japanese colonial rule.
- The film’s explicit scenes and complex narrative structure required delicate handling and coordination, contributing to its intense and immersive atmosphere.
- Kim Tae-ri was cast in her film debut after an extensive audition process, earning critical acclaim for her performance.
Inspirations and References
The Handmaiden is based on the novel Fingersmith by Sarah Waters, with the setting and cultural context adapted to fit 1930s Korea. The film reflects broader themes of empowerment, resistance, and the struggle against oppressive systems.
Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes
The final cut of The Handmaiden closely follows Park Chan-wook’s vision, with some additional content and behind-the-scenes insights available in special editions and DVD releases.
Memorable Scenes and Quotes
Key Scenes
- The initial meeting and growing bond between Sook-hee and Hideko.
- The revelation of Hideko’s traumatic past and her abuse by her uncle.
- The intricate plotting and eventual double-cross of Fujiwara.
- The climactic escape of Sook-hee and Hideko from their captors.
- The final scene of Sook-hee and Hideko embracing their freedom together.
Iconic Quotes
- “You must be lonely. You can scream, if you want.” – Sook-hee
- “I want to eat you whole. Just like this.” – Hideko
Easter Eggs and Hidden Details
- The film includes numerous subtle visual and narrative references to classic Korean and Japanese literature, as well as Western Gothic novels.
- The use of color and costume design plays a significant role in symbolizing characters’ transformations and the shifting dynamics of power.
Trivia
- The film’s budget was approximately $8.8 million, and it grossed over $38 million worldwide.
- Critics praised The Handmaiden for its complex narrative structure, rich visual style, and strong performances, especially by Kim Min-hee and Kim Tae-ri.
- The film’s explicit content and themes of sexual liberation and defiance against patriarchal control sparked significant discussion and analysis.
Why Watch?
The Handmaiden offers a thrilling and visually stunning portrayal of deception, empowerment, and liberation, featuring standout performances, particularly by Kim Min-hee and Kim Tae-ri, and masterful direction by Park Chan-wook. Its blend of intricate storytelling, rich historical context, and compelling character dynamics makes it a must-watch for fans of psychological thrillers and artful cinema.
Director’s Other Movies
Park Chan-wook also directed:
- Oldboy (2003)
- Lady Vengeance (2005)
- Thirst (2009)
- Stoker (2013)
