A Tale Of Two Sisters

Ji-Woon Kim, South Korea, 2003, 115 minutes

Amongst a buoyant crop of Asian horror movies released this decade, this haunted house movie seemed destined for obscurity, yet has become a cult favourite. A simple glance at the county of origin (Korea is producing arguably the most exciting films today) should prepare you for a strikingly unique experience. Based on a popular folk tale, the film is marketed as a haunted house movie that focuses on familial tension. Expertly crafted by a director with a superb visual style; he twists complex themes of bereavement and inner turmoil with the supernatural horror element to deliver a fascinating film that will baffle all but the sharpest of first-time viewers.

Su-mi and her younger sibling, the reserved Su-yeon, return to their family home after a spell in a mental institution. They are faced with further torment at the hands of the cruel stepmother, and become increasingly hysterical as unexplained phenomena disrupt their lives. Questions soon arise - are the sisters hallucinating or is the house possessed? What is the significance of the floral theme within the house and what is lurking under the sink? Further analysis of the plot is too difficult to convey without spoiling the film.

The film successfully creeps under the skin, and leaves many ghastly images amongst a plot best described as a jigsaw puzzle. It should be stressed that this as far as the horror genre goes, this is borderline. The film rarely intends to sharply shock the audience and there is no grizzly violence. The performances are excellent and keep the interest up during the opening third which is mostly melodrama.

Review by Chay Williamson
Written for EUFS Programme Autumn 2005