The King and The Clown is a historical drama film directed by Lee Joon Ik and released in December 2005. The movie tells the story of Jang Saeng (played by Kam Woo Sung) and Gong Gil (played by Lee Joon Gi), two street artists who entertain common folk and make a living out of it. Gong Gil, who is effeminate and beautiful, is often hired by officials or wealthy people to be their sexual partner.
One day, Jang Saeng, who secretly harbors feelings for Gong Gil, decides to run away with him to Seoul. Their journey takes them to the royal palace where they perform in front of the king. However, what they thought was a stroke of good luck turned out to be the beginning of a tragic tale. Raja Yeonsan, the king with a tragic life, develops feelings for Gong Gil. Jang Saeng, unable to cope with losing his partner to the king, becomes resentful and fights back.
The story revolves around the three main characters and how their lives intertwine with each other. Gong Gil has to navigate through his feelings for Jang Saeng and his duty towards the king, while Jang Saeng struggles with his unrequited love and his loyalty towards his partner. Meanwhile, Raja Yeonsan’s obsession for Gong Gil leads him down a path of madness and destruction.
The movie is a poignant tale of love, betrayal, friendship, and sacrifice. The King and The Clown portrays the complexities of human relationships and the challenges that people face when they try to pursue their dreams.
Subplots in the movie include the struggles of being a street artist in Korea during the Joseon period and the dangers of criticizing authorities. The film also touches on themes of gender identity and sexuality, which were considered taboo during the time in which the movie is set.
The movie’s strength lies in its performances, particularly those of Kam Woo Sung, Lee Joon Gi, and Jung Jin Young. They portrayed their characters with depth and nuance, making the audience empathize with their struggles and triumphs.
In conclusion, The King and The Clown is an exceptional historical drama that captivates the audience with its intricate storytelling and fantastic performances. The film is a must-watch for those who appreciate well-crafted cinema and an excellent choice for anyone who loves a good old-fashioned love story.
