The Princess and the Matchmaker

Set in the realm of historical Korea during the 18th century, The Princess and the Matchmaker is a romantic comedy that magnificently blends humor, wit, tradition, and an adventurous love story. Directed by Hong Chang-pyo, this 2018 film features a sparkling ensemble cast, including Hyuk Choi, Jun-ho Choi, and takes center stage with a riveting performance by Shim Eun-kyung.

The enchanting story begins with our heroine Princess Songhwa (played by Shim Eun-kyung), who is passionately independent, vibrant, and far from stereotypical. Living in the Joseon dynasty, the princess is averse to the archaic tradition of arranged marriages - a predicament she is staring right into as the King, her father (played by Jun-ho Choi) endeavors to marry her off for political gain. The King seeks the aid of a renowned fortune teller, Seo Do-yoon (played by Hyuk Choi), who is assigned the monumental task of matching a husband for Princess Songhwa from a list of royal suitors.

Seo Do-yoon is known to be the best matchmaker and fortune-teller in the kingdom, gifted with the unique ability to read the constellations and predict people’s destinies, including their compatibility for marriage. However, our spirited Princess Songhwa is no easy charge. She makes it clear that she would prefer choosing her life partner based on love rather than aligning constellations. So, she rebels against tradition by escaping the palace, putting on a disguise, and venturing out to meet her potential suitors in person.

This series of unusual circumstances fuels unexpected twists and turns, as the princess embarks on a light-hearted and often hilarious adventure of self-discovery. The vibrant chemistry between Shim Eun-kyung (Princess Songhwa) and Hyuk Choi (Seo Do-yoon) anchors the film, enticing audiences with a subtle romantic tension that underpins the comedic storyline.

Those familiar with Korean history and customs will appreciate the film's historical accuracy and cultural relevance, while others will be transported to a different era, gaining a glimpse into the unique customs and traditions of the time. The film’s direction and writing do a wonderful job of opening windows to this rich and colorful period while entertaining viewers with engaging storytelling. Complimenting the movie's narrative aspects are its accomplished technical achievements. The cinematography is gorgeous, capturing the rustic charm of the Joseon era in vibrant detail, while the costumes demonstrate remarkable research and artistry, contributing to a visual feast for the audience.

At the heart of the The Princess and the Matchmaker is a central theme of autonomy and the desire for freedom of choice, especially within the conventions of marriage. This poignant subject is deftly portrayed through the princess's journey, illuminating the struggles women faced during this historical period, while ensuring relevance to modern audiences as well.

Overall, The Princess and the Matchmaker strikes an impressive balance between an authentic historical representation and a refreshingly contemporary romantic comedy. It delivers an inviting blend of heartfelt emotion, laughter, and adventure, creating an enjoyable cinematic experience. With a deeply resonant theme, comedic touch, excellent performances, and effectively detailed production design, this film surpasses being a mere period piece to become a timeless tale of love, courage, and self-determination.