The Treacherous

The Treacherous (2015) is a historical period drama with provocative thriller elements that originate in South Korea. Directed by Min Kyu-dong, the film stars Ju Ji-Hoon, Kang-woo Kim, and Ji-Yeon Lim known for their compelling performances and the robust dynamic they create on-screen. This film showcases a fascinating blend of power, lust, and treachery staged in the 16th century Korean royal milieu.

The movie centers around the life and reign of King Yeonsan (played by Ju Ji-Hoon), the 10th king of the Joseon Dynasty, infamous for his tyrannical rule and tragic downfall. Historically considered one of the worst kings in Korean history, the portrayal of King Yeonsan in the movie evolves his character beyond his infamy. While he has been largely remembered for his obsession with women and power, the film attempts an exploration of the emotional turmoil he might have experienced, brilliantly communicating the psychological labyrinth behind his infamous acts.

The plot unfolds as Prince Yeonsan ascends the throne after the unexpected death of his father, King Seongjong. The young king, traumatized by his mother's execution, resorts to a lifestyle of hedonism driven by an insatiable hunger for power. His most trusted confidant, Im Sung-Jae — portrayed by Kang-Woo Kim — is also an important figure in the storyline whose character unveils intriguing turns as it develops. Sung-Jae serves as the King's henchman and companion, manipulating and maneuvering the political climate according to his ambitions.

In this complex mix of power and ambition enters Dan-Hee (played by Ji-Yeon Lim), a woman of immense beauty and magnetism. Picked among hundreds of women to serve in the King's royal palace, her character signifies more than mere decoration. Her role challenges the conventional roles of women in the conservative royal palace and evolves to become a game-changer in the political landscape.

The Treacherous doesn't merely focus on lust and power but digs deeper into the psychological implications of an unchecked reign. It explores multiple themes such as the corrupting influence of absolute power, the devastating effects of emotional trauma, the shrewd politics of manipulation, and the unspeakable horrors that women were made to endure.

Min Kyu-dong, the director, effectively uses the milieu of the 16th-century Joseon Dynasty to capture the above themes. He presents a visually evocative narrative, employing grand sets, lavish costumes, and a subtly illuminating color palette. His direction meticulously captures the paradox of opulence and decay, pleasure and suffering, trust and treachery, deftly constructing a narrative that's historically evocative while still maintaining contemporary relevance.

Deviating from usual historical dramas, the movie attempts to dig deep into the human psyche, making the characters appear more than just monarchs or servants. Each character is given depth, reflecting a range of human emotions from love, envy, anger, regret to longing. The performances delivered by the cast are profoundly engaging and the chemistry irrefutable. Ju Ji-Hoon delivers an especially memorable performance as King Yeonsan, skillfully using his facial expressions and body language to reflect the King's emotional turmoil and insatiable lust for power.

On the other hand, Kang-Woo Kim portrays the cunning and ambitious Im Sung-Jae in a convincing manner, bringing the subtlety of the character's manipulative charm to the forefront. Ji-Yeon Lim's portrayal of Dan-Hee is commendable as well. She blends Dan-Hee's sensuality with her intelligence and courage, creating a character that is much more than a royal concubine.

On the whole, The Treacherous provides a cinematic experience that is both visually captivating and intellectually gratifying. It serves as a powerful reflection of a time steeped in intrigue and decadence, forcing the audience to confront the various facets of human nature. Despite being a period film, it resonates on a universal level, making it a must-watch for those interested in historical dramas with psychological depth and tension. Each character's journey, steered by ambition, power, lust and their struggle with these, forms a central hook of the narrative, revealing a treacherous playground where morality is, quite often, the first casualty.