The Handmaiden

Despite its controversial story, "The Handmaiden" managed to leave a deep impression, making it one of South Korea's most memorable films. It won numerous prestigious awards, including honors at the British Academy Film Awards, Austin Film Critics Association, Boston Society of Film Critics, Chicago Film Critics Association, and more.

The movie's story revolves around Nam Sook Hee (Kim Tae-ri), a skilled pickpocket who is hired by Fujiwara to work as a maid in the home of Hideko (Kim Min-hee), who lives with her uncle. Sook Hee's mission is to manipulate Hideko into marrying Fujiwara (Ha Jung Woo), aiming to gain control of Hideko's wealth.

As the plot unfolds, Sook Hee realizes she's the one being tricked by Fujiwara and Hideko. Hideko is yearning to escape her uncle's odd behavior and wants Sook Hee to take her place. Fujiwara and Hideko eventually marry and flee, leaving Sook Hee behind.

When Hideko's uncle discovers their escape, he goes after them and uncovers a major secret. At the same time, Hideko finds herself falling for Sook Hee. In a powerful climax, they expose the secret, dismantle her uncle's house, and decide to abandon everything, including Fujiwara, to start anew.