Parasite is a 2019 South Korean black comedy thriller directed by Bong Joon-ho. The movie follows the story of two families, one from a lower-class and another from an upper-class society. The Kim family, who live in a cramped semi-basement apartment, struggle to make ends meet, while the wealthy Park family live in a luxurious house. The movie has been highly acclaimed by critics and audiences alike, winning four Oscars, including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Original Screenplay, and Best International Feature Film.
Table of Contents
Themes
The movie Parasite explores various themes related to class, social inequality, and the struggle for survival. One of the central themes of the movie is the class divide between the rich and poor. The Kim family, who are poor and living in a cramped apartment, struggle to survive in a society where wealth and status are highly valued. On the other hand, the Park family, who are wealthy and live in a luxurious house, are oblivious to the struggles of the poor.
Another theme explored in the movie is the concept of a “parasite.” The Kim family, in their attempt to better their lives, infiltrate the Park family’s home by posing as tutors and art therapists. The movie depicts how the poor are forced to rely on the rich for their survival and how they are often seen as parasites by the wealthy. The concept of parasitism is also extended to the relationship between the rich and poor, where the rich are portrayed as parasites who rely on the poor to sustain their lifestyle.
Characters
The movie Parasite features a cast of complex and multidimensional characters that reflect the social and economic conditions of contemporary South Korea. The Kim family, consisting of the father, mother, son, and daughter, are portrayed as resourceful, intelligent, and driven by their desire to escape poverty. The Park family, on the other hand, are portrayed as naive, ignorant, and disconnected from the realities of the world outside their affluent bubble.
The character of Ki-taek, the father of the Kim family, is a prime example of the struggle of the poor to survive in a society that favors the rich. Ki-taek is portrayed as a man who is willing to do whatever it takes to provide for his family, even if it means deceiving and manipulating others. The character of Moon-gwang, the former housekeeper of the Park family, is another example of the harsh realities faced by the poor. Moon-gwang is portrayed as a woman who is forced to rely on the rich for her survival, even if it means living in a hidden basement.
Legacy
The movie Parasite has had a significant impact on contemporary cinema, both in South Korea and internationally. The movie has been hailed as a masterpiece of filmmaking, showcasing the talents of Bong Joon-ho and the Korean film industry as a whole. The movie has also helped to raise awareness about the social and economic conditions of contemporary South Korea, highlighting the stark divide between the rich and poor.
The movie’s success has also led to a surge in interest in Korean cinema, with many people around the world discovering the rich history and culture of Korean filmmaking. The movie has also helped to break down cultural barriers, showcasing the universal themes that are present in Korean cinema and making it more accessible to a global audience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Parasite is a movie that explores the complexities of social inequality and the struggle for survival in contemporary South Korea. The movie’s themes of class divide, parasitism, and the struggle for survival are depicted through a cast of complex and multidimensional characters. The movie’s success has had a significant impact on contemporary cinema, raising awareness about the social and economic conditions of South Korea and helping to break down cultural barriers. Parasite is a movie that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, showcasing the talents of Bong Joon-ho and the Korean film industry as a whole. The movie’s universal themes make it a powerful commentary on the current state of society, not just in South Korea but around the world.
Parasite’s message is clear: the divide between the rich and poor is a pervasive issue that needs to be addressed, and the struggle for survival is a reality faced by many in contemporary society. Through its intricate plot, complex characters, and powerful themes, Parasite has left a lasting legacy on the world of cinema and continues to inspire audiences around the globe.
