The Face Reader (2013) Review in 2025
The Face Reader is a 2013 South Korean historical drama film that tells the story of a face reader who becomes embroiled in a power struggle between the king and his advisors.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
This movie is not suitable for young children due to its mature themes and violence.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is worth watching for fans of historical dramas and action thrillers. However, it may not be suitable for young children due to its mature themes and violence.
Spoiler Alert!
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The film is set in the 18th century and follows the story of a talented face reader named Nae-kyeong, who is hired by the king to read the faces of his advisors and identify potential threats to his power. As Nae-kyeong becomes more embroiled in the intrigue, he discovers a dark conspiracy that threatens the entire kingdom.
Review Details
story8.00/10
The story is engaging and well-paced, with a clear three-act structure. However, the plot twists can be a bit predictable at times.
acting9.00/10
The acting is superb, with standout performances from the entire cast. Song Kang-ho is particularly impressive as the lead.
characters8.50/10
The characters are well-developed and complex, with nuanced performances from the cast. Nae-kyeong is a particularly compelling protagonist.
direction9.00/10
The direction is excellent, with a clear vision and a keen sense of pacing. The cinematography is also noteworthy, with a blend of traditional and modern techniques.
cinematography8.50/10
The cinematography is stunning, with a blend of traditional and modern techniques. The use of color and lighting is particularly noteworthy.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The Face Reader is a gripping and engaging film with excellent direction, cinematography, and acting. The story is well-paced and the characters are complex and nuanced.
Cons
The plot twists can be a bit predictable at times, and the violence may be too intense for some viewers.
Notable Quotes
"A face is like a map, it reveals the secrets of the soul."
"The face is a window to the soul, but it can also be a mask."
