Award-winning director Park Chan-wook’s upcoming film “The Handmaiden” is set to open in local theaters on June 1, CJ E&M announced Wednesday.
“The Handmaiden” is an erotic thriller inspired by the historical crime novel “Fingersmith” by British author Sarah Waters.
A still from “The Handmaiden,” featuring Kim Min-hee (left) and Kim Tae-ri (CJ E&M)
Set against the backdrop of Korea and Japan during the Japanese colonial era, the film centers on the conspiracy of a count (Ha Jung-woo) who tries to get his hands on the inheritance of a young Japanese heiress (Kim Min-hee). The count hires a pickpocket (Kim Tae-ri) to serve as the heiress’ handmaiden and take part in the conspiracy.
Park’s upcoming film, which is competing in the 69th Cannes International Film Festival, will premiere at the film festival on May 14.
Park has won the Grand Prix for “Oldboy” (2003) and the Jury Prize for “Thirst” (2009) at the prestigious film festival. He is acclaimed for his explosive visuals and dynamic storytelling.
The Cannes International Film Festival runs May 11-22.
By Jung Eun-jin (
jej2403@heraldcorp.com)
