Watch Forbidden Quest

Forbidden Quest is a South Korean period drama film released in 2006. Directed by Kim Dae-woo and based on a novel by Chae Man-sik, the movie stars Han Suk-kyu, Lee Beom-soo, and Kim Min-jung in lead roles. Set in the late Joseon era, the movie tells the story of Yun-seo, a young nobleman who develops an obsessive love for his maid, Wol-ryung. Yun-seo's father is a renowned Confucian scholar and historian and owns a collection of erotic paintings. When his father dies, Yun-seo inherits the collection and becomes obsessed with searching for a legendary erotic painting, called "The Virgin Spring."

Yun-seo believes that the painting will help him better understand the female anatomy and consequently improve his sexual performance. He sets out on a forbidden quest to find the painting, which he believes is hidden in a secret room in his father's library. However, the library has been sealed off by the new king, who is wary of the erotic paintings and the influence they may have on his people.

Desperate to find the painting, Yun-seo convinces the new king to appoint him as the head librarian in charge of the library, under the guise of finding and cataloging valuable historical documents. Yun-seo then enlists the help of his loyal friend and a fellow scholar, Hwang, to help him find the hidden room.

Initially, Yun-seo's efforts seem futile, as the room remains elusive. However, as they continue their search, they uncover a series of clues, including mysterious symbols on the erotic paintings themselves. They realize that the symbols form a map that leads to the hidden room. As they get closer to their goal, Yun-seo's obsession and lust for Wol-ryung escalate, leading to tragic consequences.

The movie expertly portrays the class and gender dynamics of the era, where noblewomen were expected to live in isolation and were seen as objects to be possessed and controlled by men. The characters and their motivations are complex and layered, with each one struggling with their own desires and societal expectations.

Forbidden Quest is a visually stunning movie, with lush cinematography and vivid production design capturing the opulence and decadence of the Joseon court. The music by Bang Jun-seok perfectly complements the mood of the film, evoking a sense of sensuality and mystery.

The movie has some intense and explicit sexual scenes, which may not be suitable for all viewers. However, these scenes are necessary to the plot, serving to highlight the unhealthy obsession and objectification of women by men in the era.

Despite its controversial subject matter, Forbidden Quest is a beautifully crafted movie, with excellent performances from the lead actors. Han Suk-kyu delivers a standout performance as the tortured and obsessive Yun-seo, while Lee Beom-soo brings depth and nuance to the character of Hwang. Kim Min-jung shines as Wol-ryung, imbuing the character with dignity and grace amidst the chaos and exploitation.

Overall, Forbidden Quest is a compelling and thought-provoking movie that explores themes of desire, power, and the objectification of women. It is a must-watch for fans of Korean cinema and period dramas, and a reminder of the power and impact of art and storytelling.