Masquerade
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  • Summary: During the confusing and conspiratorial Joseon Dynasty King Gwang-hae orders his councilor, HEO Kyun, to find him a double in order to avoid the constant threat of assassination. HEO Kyun finds Ha-sun, a jester who looks remarkably like the king, and just as feared, Gwang-hae is poisoned. HEO Kyun proposes Ha-sun fill the role as the king until Gwang-hae recovers fully and grooms Ha-sun to look and act every bit the king. While assuming the role of the king at his first official appearance, Ha-sun begins to ponder the intricacies of the problems debated in his court. Being fundamentally more humanitarian than Gwang-hae, Ha-sun’s affection and appreciation of even the most minor servants slowly changes morale in the castle for the better. Over time he finds his voice and takes control of governing the country with real insight and fair judgments. Even HEO Kyun is moved by Ha-sun’s genuine concern for the people, and realizes he is an infinitely better ruler than Gwang-hae. However, his chief opposition, PARK, notices the sudden shift in the king’s behavior and starts to ask questions. (CJ Entertainment)… Expand

Critic Reviews

Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1 out of 3
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 3
  3. Negative: 0 out of 3
  1. Arizona Republic
    Reviewed by: Bill Goodykoontz
    Feb 7, 2013
    70
    What it lacks in originality, it makes up for in Lee’s performance. He is effectively stern as the king. More importantly, he makes Ha-seon funny and movingly genuine.
  2. Los Angeles Times
    Reviewed by: Robert Abele
    Sep 28, 2012
    60
    As predictable as these stories invariably are, Lee's wonderful turn reignites the potent fantasy of peasant wisdom - if given the power - melting politically cynical hearts and legislating through decency rather than fear.
  3. Austin Chronicle
    Reviewed by: Marjorie Baumgarten
    Mar 20, 2013
    50
    The film’s historical pageantry is fascinating to observe, even though the story is mostly conjecture. Competently directed, the real pleasure in this high-grossing South Korean film lies in its performances, which lighten the regal solemnity with comic warmth.

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  1. Positive: 2 out of 2
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 2
  3. Negative: 0 out of 2
  1. asianinparis
    9
    how to become a king in 3 days, especially when the so called king is an impostor? beautifully directed, outstanding photography, rich script, nice plot, great music, smart film, and quite moving at some point, not to mention the incredible double performance of the king and impostor played by the same actor- a masterpiece of koreen cinematography for sure, a real gem to discover !!! don't miss this one if you have to chance to view it THANK YOU MISTER Chang-min Choo.… Expand
  2. TVJerry
    6
    Many years ago, a Korean ruler becomes mysteriously ill, so his leaders find a lowly look-alike to take his place. After some awkward false starts, he starts to relish his role and becomes a even better sovereign. While the story and performances are effective there are either flaws in the narrative or some of the details got lost in the translation. As expected with historical Asian films, the settings and costumes are sumptuous. The Western music is sometimes jarring (there's even a waltz!). By the end the characters cry more tears than a Hallmark movie. This film isn't particularly memorable, but if you enjoy this type of import (yes, subtitles), you won't be bored.… Expand

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