The Housemaid (2010), directed by Im Sang-soo, is a bold and haunting reimagining of the 1960 Korean classic, blending psychological tension with sharp social commentary. Set in a luxurious but emotionally cold mansion, the story follows Eun-yi (Jeon Do-yeon), a kind and soft-spoken woman hired as a live-in maid for a wealthy family.
What begins as a quiet routine soon unravels into a dangerous game of power, seduction, and betrayal, as Eun-yi is pulled into the toxic dynamics of those who live above her.
Jeon Do-yeon delivers a mesmerizing performance, capturing both the innocence and the emotional unraveling of her character with nuance and depth. The film is beautifully shot, with elegant cinematography that contrasts the refined surface of wealth with the chaos lurking beneath.Director Im Sang-soo doesn’t shy away from uncomfortable truths — instead, he slowly exposes the cruelty and indifference often masked by social status and control.
Far more than a domestic drama, The Housemaid is a chilling reflection on class disparity, manipulation, and human vulnerability. It invites the audience to question who truly holds power — and at what cost. With its gripping storyline, atmospheric visuals, and unflinching tone, the film stands out as a disturbing yet thought-provoking piece of modern Korean cinema.
