Netflix's 'Snow White's Revenge', Into the Temptation of Dangerous Liaisons Set in the Joseon Dynasty

[Korea Social Welfare Journal] Reporter Kang Hyun-gu= Netflix's new series 'Snow White's Revenge' aims to break away from the framework of traditional historical dramas. By adapting the classic novel 'Dangerous Liaisons' by French author Pierre Choderlos de Laclos to the Joseon Dynasty setting, it explores the complex boundaries of desire. This work illuminates the depth of human relationships beyond simple romance.

The characters challenge the constraints of the era in their own ways. Lady Cho, played by Son Ye Jin, is a woman who pursues her own desires within given limitations. She cleverly utilizes her position within the framework of society while not hiding her inner cravings. Jo Won, played by Ji Chang Wook, is a character who chases pleasure, appearing free on the outside but struggling with inner emptiness. Hui-yeon, portrayed by Nana, is suppressed by traditional values but faces her own desires after getting caught in the bet between Lady Cho and Jo Won.

Son Ye Jin returns to historical dramas after a long time to take on the role of Lady Cho. This character plunges into a dangerous game due to a reunion with her old friend, Jo Won. Nana takes on her first challenge in a historical drama with this work, playing Hui-yeon, a widow who lost her husband and even suppressed her own existence.

Director Jung Ji-woo focused on what the protagonists want by putting forward characters who explore the modern self. This integrates modern self-exploration and desire into traditional character relationships, providing a new perspective to the audience. In the released images, the three main characters engage in psychological warfare mediated by letters. The director predicted a dramatic development through their psychological conflicts and tension.

In this work, Pansori and Minhwa add unique characteristics of Joseon. Pansori emphasizes the complexity of the story and forms the rhythm of the play, while Minhwa depicts the movements of the characters against the backdrop of Joseon Dynasty aesthetics. Director Jung explained that these elements breathed fresh vitality into the original work.

As such, 'Snow White's Revenge' explores the possibilities of a new historical drama by crossing the boundaries between tradition and modernity. It is expected to present a fresh sense and vision that existing historical dramas have not shown.