The Magician (Joseon Magician) Movie Recap

I love this movie, not only because of Yoo Seung-Ho (though I must admit he’s the major reason) but because it offers something more than your average sageuk movie. It’s not perfect, considering that it has obvious plot holes but at least it has its redeeming traits.

Since it’s a sageuk it has the typical elements of war, political conspiracies and revenge plots. I love that amidst all the dark themes is a pure and cute love story of an unlikely pair. I also appreciate the pinch of comic reliefs randomly thrown in the movie once in a while. And lastly, I think the integration of magic in the flirting, courting and fighting scenes is a unique touch.

In a nutshell, this movie is about a Joseon Princess who was sold to the Qing Dynasty to be married. A chance encounter with a handsome magician changed her fate and they began a romance that may put the entire dynasty to chaos.