Movies Like The Handmaiden

Caroline Mae

2 min read

·

02-01-2025

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If you're a fan of Park Chan-wook's masterpiece, The Handmaiden, you likely appreciate its masterful blend of eroticism, suspense, and stunning visuals. The film's unique atmosphere, intricate plot twists, and complex characters are hard to replicate, but several films share similar elements. This guide explores movies that capture the essence of The Handmaiden, offering a curated selection for those seeking a similar cinematic experience.

For the Erotic Thriller Fan:

• Basic Instinct (1992): While significantly different in setting and cultural context, Basic Instinct shares The Handmaiden's exploration of power dynamics and sexual tension within a thriller narrative. The film's iconic scenes and complex protagonist will resonate with those who enjoyed the seductive and dangerous aspects of The Handmaiden.

• In the Realm of the Senses (1976): This Japanese film is a more explicit and controversial entry, but it shares The Handmaiden's unflinching portrayal of intense sexual obsession and its destructive consequences. Be warned, this film is not for the faint of heart.

• Eyes Wide Shut (1999): Stanley Kubrick's final film delves into themes of desire, secrets, and the hidden underbelly of seemingly ordinary lives. While less overtly erotic than The Handmaiden, it shares a similar atmosphere of mystery and psychological tension.

For the Period Drama Enthusiast:

• The Age of Innocence (1993): This adaptation of Edith Wharton's novel offers a glimpse into the restrictive social conventions of 19th-century New York high society. Like The Handmaiden, it explores themes of repressed desires and the constraints placed on individuals within a rigid social structure.

• Portrait of a Lady on Fire (2019): This French film focuses on a female painter commissioned to create a wedding portrait of a young woman. It beautifully captures the burgeoning relationship between the subjects and the tension between societal expectations and personal desires. The film's stunning visuals and focus on female relationships will particularly appeal to fans of The Handmaiden.

For the Fans of Intricate Plots and Twists:

• Memento (2000): While a vastly different genre, Christopher Nolan's Memento showcases a similarly intricate and unpredictable narrative structure. The film's non-linear storytelling and unreliable narrator will challenge viewers in a way reminiscent of The Handmaiden's plot twists.

This list isn't exhaustive, but it provides a starting point for exploring films that capture various aspects of what makes The Handmaiden so compelling. Each film offers a unique cinematic experience, while sharing similar themes of eroticism, suspense, and compelling characters within stunning visual landscapes. Enjoy!