Watch The Treacherous

The Treacherous is a 2015 South Korean historical drama film directed by Min Kyu-dong. The movie is set in the Joseon Dynasty and follows the story of two brothers and their love for the same woman who happens to be the queen. At the center of the story is King Yeonsan, who is infamous for his cruel and erratic behavior which includes killing his own father to ascend the throne. Ju Ji-Hoon plays the role of King Yeonsan, who is shown to be volatile and dangerous, prone to erratic mood swings that often result in the deaths of those who serve him.

Meanwhile, his half-brother Prince Jinseong, played by Kang-woo Kim, is the complete opposite of Yeonsan. He is kind, just, and respected by the people. Prince Jinseong is loved by his brother, but he does not return the same feeling as he sees Yeonsan as cruel and unworthy of being a king.

The story takes a turn when Yeonsan falls in love with the queen, played by Ji-Yeon Lim, and desires her for himself. However, she only has eyes for Prince Jinseong. What follows is a treacherous tale of love, jealousy, ambition, and betrayal that ultimately leads to a deadly confrontation between the two brothers.

The movie explores the intricate power play and politics of Joseon Dynasty, interspersed with moments of intimacy and passion between the queen and the beloved prince. The performances of the lead actors are commendable, with Ju Ji-Hoon delivering a powerful portrayal of the king who is both cruel and vulnerable. Kang-woo Kim as Prince Jinseong brings compassion and depth to his role, portraying the prince's struggles with love, loyalty, and duty towards his kingdom. Ji-Yeon Lim as the queen is mesmerizing, showcasing her complexities as a woman trapped between two brothers who are willing to do whatever it takes to win her over.

The movie's production design, costumes, and cinematography are top-notch, accurately depicting the opulence and grandeur of the Joseon Dynasty. The movie's soundtrack is also notable, enhancing the mood and adding the necessary emotional touch to the story.

Overall, The Treacherous presents a captivating and engaging tale of love and betrayal, set against the backdrop of a tumultuous period in Korean history. The movie is a must-see for fans of historical dramas, as well as those who appreciate strong character development and captivating storytelling.

The Treacherous is a 2015 drama with a runtime of 2 hours and 12 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.0.