The Handmaiden (2016) | How Woke Is It?

Our VerdictHyper Woke

82%

The Handmaiden2016

In a free society the right to critique art is essential and protected speech. These reviews reflect personal opinions and not statements of fact.

What We Think

The Handmaiden showcases strong woke tendencies, especially in its deconstruction of tradition, gender roles, and power. While it’s visually striking and narratively clever, its ideological slant is overt and barely leaves space for more traditional values or debate.

Score Breakdown

Compromised:Narrative Integrity

Woke

What is this?

The film puts significant emphasis on subverting traditional gender expectations and explores female sexuality at the center of its plot. Some may argue that identity is foregrounded over deeper character complexity. However, it still maintains engaging character arcs and a suspenseful storyline, so it’s not entirely sacrificed for ideology.

Compromised:Cultural Foundations

Hyper Woke

What is this?

The film subverts traditional roles and critiques patriarchal authority extensively. Family, religion, and masculinity are not just sidelined but often portrayed as oppressive or antagonistic forces within the story world.

Compromised:Ideological Monoculture

Hyper Woke

What is this?

Most alternative worldviews, especially traditional perspectives, are framed unsympathetically or through negative caricature. Modern themes of liberation and autonomy are celebrated, and dissent is largely villainized. There’s not much room for pluralism here.

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Disclaimer: In a free society the right to critique art is essential and protected as a form of free speech and freedom of expression. The reviews and commentary on this site represent personal opinions and interpretations. They are not statements of fact and should not be taken as factual claims about any individual, company, or creative work.