The drama combines the sumptuous art direction and black humor of Park's past work with a warmth and compassion that feeds the soul.

Once again Park finds himself immersed in a world of woman-driven intrigue, and like Stoker before it The Handmaiden is concerned with the power dynamics between women in what are contextually configured as sexually transgressive scenarios.

The Handmaiden is exemplary proof of Park's mastery, a high point from a director known for his purposeful aesthetic care, even in matters of overwrought sexual melodrama.

Set up as a near-Gothic period piece, The Handmaiden manages to keep the audience on a string while also employing Park’s favorite tension-busting trick: infallible characters making an unbelievable mess.