Why You Should Watch Parasite
Parasite is not just a film. It’s a masterful example of filmmaking that deserves all the praise it has received. This compelling story of two families and their everyday collisions serves as an unapologetic piece of social commentary. It’s no wonder that Parasite won Best Picture at the 2020 Oscars. The film’s international acclaim and accessibility make it a must-watch for everyone, regardless of their familiarity with foreign language films.
A Universal Portrayal of Classism
Parasite provides a raw image of South Korean reality, but its portrayal is universally representative of any country. It sheds light on the harsh reality of classism and its impact on society. The film’s reliability and universality make it a powerful and thought-provoking experience for viewers worldwide.
The reality of class distinction is so obvious throughout the movie also with the symbolism and with the sequences such as after the audiences see how devastating the flood was for the lower class families and houses, Yeon Kyo implies that the flood was something good as they get to spend her son’s birthday all together. We see that how something really terrible for lower class doesn’t even effect someone from the upper class.
We become aware that there is also another layer of class distinction as we witness how things get worse with the encounter of two lower class families: The Kims and Park’s houskeeper’s family. The fact that these two poor families becomes enemies implies the harsh reality that there is no peace in this devastating world and they can do whatever it takes to win the battle of life.
Kim Ki Taek tells his son “You know what kind of plan never fails? No plan. No plan at all. You know why? Because life cannot be planned. Look around you. Did you think these people made a plan to sleep in the sports hall with you? But here we are now, sleeping together on the floor. So, there’s no need for a plan. You can’t go wrong with no plans. We don’t need to make a plan for anything. It doesn’t matter what will happen next. Even if the country gets destroyed or sold out, nobody cares. Got it?
These lines are very powerfull as they imply that these poor people have nothing to loose which makes them do awfull things easily without any fear.
A Genre-Bending Plot
The plot of Parasite is a hybrid of various genres. It has been called a heist movie, a drama, a thriller, and more. The film seamlessly blends dark humor with tragedy, taking viewers on a rollercoaster ride of emotions. The unexpected shifts in mood and surprising sequences keep you engaged and on the edge of your seat throughout.
The story revolves around two families, the Parks and the Kims, whose lives become intertwined in both symbiotic and parasitic ways. The dynamic between these families is both captivating and unsettling, highlighting the complexities of human relationships and societal structures.
A Film That Exceeds Expectations
Parasite goes above and beyond these expectations. Bong Joon-ho’s masterpiece not only checks all the boxes but also creates new ones. It offers a fresh perspective and delivers a cinematic experience that is truly unforgettable. The film surprises and delights, leaving you with a sense of awe and admiration for the director’s skill and creativity.
An Ensemble of Excellence
Parasite’s success can be attributed to the seamless collaboration of its components. Bong Joon-ho’s direction is exceptional, as he has proven time and time again with his previous works. The performances by the cast, including seasoned actors like Lee Jeong-eun and Song Kang-ho, as well as younger talents like Choi Woo-shik and Park So-dam, are stunning.
However, what truly stands out is the cinematography and production design. Every frame is meticulously crafted, telling its own story and enhancing the film’s witty and thought-provoking dialogue. The visual aspects of Parasite, from the lighting to the color palette, are a treat for the eyes. The contrast between the high society house of the Parks and the half basement of the Kims is striking, highlighting the stark divide between social classes.
Bong Joon-ho’s attention to detail extends to the set design as well. The unique “staircase movie” concept, where the camera focuses on characters moving up and down the stairs, symbolizes the social ladder and the lack of class mobility. This commentary on rigid power structures adds another layer of depth to the film.
A Complex and Impactful Film
Parasite is a film that challenges societal norms and exposes the flaws within our systems. It is a masterful example of filmmaking that seamlessly blends storytelling, social commentary, and technical brilliance. By the end of the film, everything you thought to be true at the beginning has been overturned, leaving you with a profound sense of introspection.
Parasite is more than just a movie. It’s an experience that will stay with you long after the credits roll. Its universal themes and exceptional execution make it a film that everyone should watch. So, dive right in and let Parasite take you on a journey that will leave you questioning the world we live in.
