The Concubine (2012): Surviving the throne

ByFabian Bullitt

2012 • Kim Dae-seung • 1.85:1 • Jump to Gallery ↓

Directed by Kim Dae-seung, The Concubine tells the story of a noblewoman who is forced into the royal court as a concubine after being separated from the man she loves. Once inside the Joseon palace, she becomes embroiled in a ruthless battle for survival involving an obsessive prince, political intrigue and shifting allegiances, where personal desire gradually yields to the pursuit of power.

Although the film was marketed upon its release for its graphic, highly stylised eroticism, it is primarily a political thriller set in the Joseon dynasty, exploring themes of obsession, survival and corruption. The sex scenes are not intended to titillate, but are part of the power play and border on horror rituals set in lavish surroundings.

Representing the monarchy without an ounce of romanticism, The Concubine is full of beautiful, colourful costumes, but it is the apparatus for a dark, lethal web of court intrigue. A lush historical melodrama.

Technical Specs:

  • The Story: A young noblewoman is drawn into the royal court against her will, becoming entangled in a ruthless struggle for power, desire, and survival as ambition and obsession consume everyone around her.
  • Actors: Cho Yeo-jeong, Kim Dong-wook, Kim Min-jun, Park Ji-young, Cho Eun-ji, Lee Kyung-young.
  • Director: Kim Dae-seung
  • Year: 2012
  • Cinematographer: Hwang Ki-suk
  • Origin: Korean Cinema
  • Aspect Ratio: 1.85:1
  • Genre: Historical Drama / Political Thrillers
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