A Tale of Deception and Desire
Synopsis
Directed by Park Chan-wook, "The Handmaiden" is a thrilling psychological piece set in Japanese-occupied Korea. It's a tale of deception, lust, and betrayal as a young Korean woman is hired as a handmaiden to a wealthy Japanese heiress but is secretly involved in a conman’s plot to defraud her of her large inheritance.
Performances
The film is a powerhouse of performances, with Kim Tae-ri and Kim Min-hee sharing a compelling chemistry that renders their complicated relationship intensely engaging. The ensemble cast excels in bringing depth to their characters, enhancing the film's intricate plot.
Themes
"The Handmaiden" expertly explores themes of manipulation and power, intertwined with human desire, delivering a narrative rife with shifting alliances and hidden motives. Its thematic exploration offers viewers a roller-coaster of unpredictability and depth.
"The Handmaiden" (2016): Where to Watch
United States
There are currently no streaming offers in the US.
In the United States, you can stream the film on Amazon Prime Video and FilmBox+, or buy it on Vudu.
Australia
There are currently no streaming offers in the US.
For those in Australia, the film is available to stream on FilmBox+ and can be purchased on Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, Microsoft Store, and YouTube.
United Kingdom
There are currently no streaming offers in the US.
In the United Kingdom, "The Handmaiden" can be streamed on Channel 4, MUBI, BFI Player, BFI Player Amazon Channel, MUBI Amazon Channel, FilmBox+, and Curzon Amazon Channel. Additionally, it is available for purchase on Amazon Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, Sky Store, Chili, Curzon Home Cinema, YouTube, and Rakuten TV.
Germany
There are currently no streaming offers in the US.
German audiences can stream the movie on Home of Horror, Filmtastic, ArthouseCNMA, Arthouse CNMA Amazon Channel, FilmBox+, and Moviedome Plus Amazon Channel. The film can be purchased on Apple TV, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Sky Store, Rakuten TV, maxdome Store, MagentaTV, Chili, Microsoft Store, and Kino on Demand.
Brazil
There are currently no streaming offers in the US.
In Brazil, the film is available for streaming on Globoplay and FilmBox+.
Spain
There are currently no streaming offers in the US.
Spanish viewers have the option to stream the film on Filmin, Movistar Plus, and FilmBox+.
France
There are currently no streaming offers in the US.
If you're in France, you can stream "The Handmaiden" on MUBI, MUBI Amazon Channel, and FilmBox+, or you can buy it on Apple TV, Google Play Movies, Orange VOD, Microsoft Store, YouTube, FILMO, Canal VOD, Rakuten TV, Universcine, and Amazon Video.
Canada
There are currently no streaming offers in the US.
Canadian viewers can stream the film on Hoopla, Sundance Now, MUBI, FilmBox+, AMC+, and AMC Plus Apple TV Channel, and it's available for purchase on Apple TV, Google Play Movies, Microsoft Store, and YouTube.
Critical Reception
Critics universally praised "The Handmaiden" for its complex narrative, thematic exploration, and stunning visuals. It mixes genres, combining thriller, romance, and period drama, leading the audience through a maze of plot twists and turning the film into a unique exploration of desire and power dynamics.
Concluding Thoughts
"The Handmaiden" stands as a modern masterpiece of Korean cinema, a film that’s rich in character development, narrative structure, and thematic depth. It balances the dark explorations of human nature with unexpected humor and passionate intensity, leaving a lasting impression that resonates well after viewing.