1930s Korea, in the period of Japanese occupation, a new girl, Sookee, is hired as a handmaiden to a Japanese heiress, Hideko, who lives a secluded life on a large countryside estate with her domineering Uncle Kouzuki. But the maid has a secret. She is a pickpocket recruited by a swindler posing as a Japanese Count to help him seduce the Lady to steal her fortune.
In 1930s Korea, a young pickpocket is hired to become the maid to a wealthy Japanese heiress, Lady Hideko, living on a secluded estate with her domineering uncle, Uncle Kouzuki. The pickpocket's true mission, orchestrated by a con man posing as a Count, is to seduce Lady Hideko and trick her into marrying the Count so he can steal her fortune. However, as the maid and Lady Hideko grow closer, their relationship takes an unexpected turn, leading to a complex web of deceit, betrayal, and passion.
The Handmaiden was met with widespread critical acclaim, lauded for its intricate plot, stunning visuals, and powerful performances. Critics praised Park Chan-wook's masterful direction and his ability to blend eroticism, suspense, and dark humor. Audiences were captivated by its twists and turns, its exploration of themes like liberation and power dynamics, and its richly detailed period setting.
Google audience: Audiences overwhelmingly praised the film's stunning visuals, compelling story, and unexpected plot twists. Many highlighted the strong performances and the film's exploration of female empowerment and challenging societal norms.
Won the BAFTA Award for Best Film Not in the English Language, and received nominations for the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival, among numerous other international awards and nominations.
The film is based on Sarah Waters' 2002 novel 'Fingersmith', but director Park Chan-wook made significant changes to the setting and plot, moving the story from Victorian England to 1930s Japanese-occupied Korea and altering the narrative structure.
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