Rating: ★★★★☆

Prepare to be seduced and unsettled in equal measure as we journey back to the twisted world of “The Housemaid,” a fever dream of desire and destruction that defies all expectations. Released in 1960, this Korean masterpiece of psychological horror remains as enigmatic and provocative today as it was upon its initial release.

Set within the opulent confines of a wealthy household, “The Housemaid” introduces us to a seemingly idyllic family on the surface. But beneath the veneer of respectability lies a seething cauldron of lust, jealousy, and betrayal waiting to boil over. When the innocent and alluring housemaid (played with captivating allure by Lee Eun-shim) enters the fray, she unwittingly becomes the catalyst for a descent into madness that will leave no one unscathed.

What sets “The Housemaid” apart is its fearless exploration of taboo subjects and its willingness to push the boundaries of conventional storytelling. Director Kim Ki-Young employs a surreal and dreamlike aesthetic that blurs the line between reality and fantasy, inviting viewers to question the nature of truth and illusion. As the narrative twists and turns with dizzying speed, we find ourselves drawn deeper into a world where nothing is as it seems, and every character hides a dark secret.

At the heart of “The Housemaid” lies a powerhouse performance by Lee Eun-shim, whose magnetic presence electrifies every frame. With a single glance, she can convey a universe of emotions, from innocence to seduction to outright menace. As the titular housemaid, she is both victim and villain, a symbol of feminine power unleashed and unchecked.

But “The Housemaid” is more than just a showcase for its talented cast; it’s also a meditation on the corrosive effects of desire and obsession. As the characters spiral ever deeper into their own personal hells, we are forced to confront our own darkest impulses and desires. It’s a harrowing journey, to be sure, but one that ultimately leaves us with a newfound appreciation for the fragile beauty of the human soul.

The Prognosis:

“The Housemaid” is a mesmerizing and unforgettable cinematic experience that defies easy categorization. Equal parts horror, drama, and psychological thriller, it challenges our preconceptions and leaves us questioning the nature of reality itself. Whether you’re a fan of avant-garde cinema or simply crave a story that dares to push the boundaries of convention, “The Housemaid” is an essential viewing experience that demands to be seen to be believed. So, dim the lights, open your mind, and prepare to be swept away on a journey into the darkest recesses of the human psyche.

• Saul Muerte