Man on High Heels (2014 Film)

Man on High Heels (Korean: 하이힐; RR: Haiheel) is a 2014 South Korean action-drama film written and directed by Jang Jin. The film explores the life of a detective who grapples with his internal desire to transition and live as a woman while maintaining his reputation as a formidable law enforcement officer.

Plot

The narrative centers on Detective Ji-Wook, played by Cha Seung-won, a man known for his exceptional fighting skills and ruthless efficiency in apprehending criminals. Beneath his tough exterior, Ji-Wook harbors a profound desire to transition to a woman. As he navigates his professional duties and personal conflicts, he becomes entangled with individuals such as the mysterious Jang-Mi (Esom) and the antagonist Heo-Gon (Oh Jung-Se).

Production

The film was directed and written by Jang Jin, who also served as a producer alongside Lee Eun-Ha and Jo Hyun-Suk. Production took place in 2013, with filming commencing on April 3 and concluding on August 15 of that year. The film was distributed by Lotte Entertainment and received a theatrical release in South Korea on June 4, 2014.

Cast

Festival Screenings

Man on High Heels was featured at several international film festivals following its release. It had its North American premiere at the 33rd Vancouver International Film Festival in 2014 as part of the Dragons and Tigers program. It was also screened at the 44th International Film Festival Rotterdam in 2015 within the Signals: Jang Jin section.