My Take on Bong Joon-Ho's Parasite (2019)

Recently, I watched Parasite (2019) by Bong Joon-Ho. I was curious about why so many film fanatics hailed it as a masterpiece. I often caught glances of YouTube thumbnails describing Parasite as the “best movie of the decade.” After some consideration, I decided to watch it.

And, my God, they’re right.

Parasite tells the story of juxtaposition. Two families on opposite sides of the financial spectrum. One is privileged, rich, and high-class: the Park's. The other is struggling to stay afloat (quite literally, at times): the Kim's. Throughout the movie, I expected an ending that would please both families. Surprisingly, the ending turned out to be devastating for both parties. Some died from stab wounds. Others were either injured or traumatized. This movie allocated zero mercy for anybody. Despite the myriad of differences between these families, they stood equal at that moment.

Ever since I watched Parasite, I could never watch movies the same way. My favorite movies of any genre seemed so simple in comparison. Many horror movies can scare me: make me jump and scream at times. But Bong Joon-Ho knew how to dive into the deepest crevices of my mind and implant his Parasite there. It was humorous and horrifying without sudden scares, which captivated audiences. There is only one conventionally terrifying scene: the ghost scene. When Geun-sae crawled up the stairs, I thought he would jump out. The fact that he remained steady was worse. His face burned into my brain, and that's what Bong Joon-Ho does. That is the epitome of his artistic talent. The camerawork during that scene captured Da-song's feelings perfectly. You can feel his terror. In that specific moment, you are Da-song. Plus, the scene executed his feelings without any over-dramatic music or transitions.

Not only that, everything connects. New details sprout with every review video. Unlike most movies, the more you watch Parasite, the better your viewing experience. Yes, diving in blind is an unforgettable experience, but spoilers are no match. Every person who watched it seems to love it, including me. This movie also captures the social class gap to the tea. It uses sets to create a narrative that parallels the characters’ economic statuses. One important aspect of the set is the usage of sunlight. The sunlight that the Park family lavishes in. The sunlight that the Kim family rarely comes in daily contact with. The sunlight that Geun-sae never sees daily. It's a source of happiness and an offering of hope to the working-class families. The potential to achieve success sustains itself through this resource. That's why the ending hit so many hearts. While Ki-Woo sits under the sunlight in the semi-basement, the audience comes to realize the truth: Ki-Woo will never see his father again. The hope in the movie has turned into a full-fledged fantasy. And don't even get me started with the translation of the outro song. Listening to a vivid description of Ki-woo's hard work only sent me further into sadness.

Parasite brought out dormant thoughts. Thoughts that would claw at me during the most silent nights. How the working class remains the working class while the rich remain rich. Both feed off of each other and need each other. However, there is an intangible barrier between these classes that prevents unity. This system is a trap with every step you take. Much of the working class kick each other to maintain the high ground. Most of the rich fail to appreciate those keeping their companies, reputations, and businesses afloat.

You don't have to be Einstein to piece together the theme, and that’s what I love about the movie. They don't outright give you the message, but it maintains consistency. So, there is no room for outlandish theories. Rather, it creates an open discussion for a prevalent, global issue. That is why this film lingers in my mind, infiltrating my perspective of the world as the time passes by. It ages like fine wine.

All in all, Parasite deserved all the awards it received. Ironically, by telling a story of division, Bong Joon-Ho created a connection between different people. A silent understanding between people of different origins.

If you haven't watched it already, I suggest you do so. It is a rewarding experience and will open your eyes.