PARASITE; BETWEEN THE POOR AND THE RICH
[19.44, 13/5/2024] Jula: “Parasite” (2019) is a South Korean film that tells the story of the differences in social strata between the poor, namely the family of Kim Ki-Taek (Song Kang-Ho), whose life is full of deprivation. And Park Dong-ik’s (Lee Sun-Kyun) family is rich with enormous wealth. Knowing this, the Kim family was of course tempted to try to enter upper class life through the Park family. Because the Kim family’s greed ultimately led to tragedy for the Park family. This film is a comedy thriller genre and tells the story of Kim Ki-taek’s family with his wife and children. “Parasite” became the first Asian film to receive double nominations for Best Picture and Best Foreign Language Film. This film also won the Palme d’Or, Golden Globe, SAG Awards, and most recently won the Oscars.
The film “Parasite” introduces two families who live in very different realities. The Kim family, living in a cramped and messy basement apartment, struggles to make a living. The opportunity arises when the Kim family’s son, Ki-woo, gets the chance to become a tutor for the Park family’s daughter, this becomes the beginning of a series of compelling, manipulative events. Ki-woo and his family cleverly take advantage of the situation to enter the Park family’s life. Using fake identities and very clever manipulation, one by one the Kim family members managed to infiltrate the Park family’s home and life as household assistants, personal drivers, and even nannies. However, the lives of these two families cannot run smoothly forever. As secrets and intrigue emerge, “Parasite” turns into a stirring psychological thriller. Conflicts between social classes feel increasingly intense, and we are faced with difficult questions about morality, justice, and the limits of what a person can do to achieve prosperity.
“Parasite” is not just a film, but also a mirror that reflects social inequality in modern society. The film is a powerful reminder of the widening gap between the upper and lower classes, presenting a bittersweet portrait of the realities we still face. Bong Joon-ho, with his narrative intelligence, succeeds in presenting the theme of social inequality in a way that is full of surprises and tension. Through the journey of the Kim family who try to move up in class at any cost, we are faced with deep thoughts about how unfair social structures can shape a person’s fate.
The uniqueness of “Parasite” lies in its ability to invite us as viewers to reflect. This film is not just entertainment, but a call to understand and criticize the inequality that exists around us. Providing a complex and realistic point of view presents a critical message about social class differences without falling into stereotypes or clichés.
[19.44, 13/5/2024] Jula: Combining elements of black comedy, drama and thriller, “Parasite” delivers a compelling and disconcerting cinematic experience. Each scene not only provides plot surprises, but also includes deep social messages. This film invites us to explore the layers of social life, presenting an accurate and contemporary picture.
“Parasite” is not only an entertaining film, but also a work of art that provides proof of the extraordinary power of cinema as a medium of social expression and reflection. In a contemporary era filled with issues of inequality, this film not only invites us as viewers to enjoy the story, but also to reflect and question the conditions of the world around us.
This film functions as a voice that speaks out against injustice, taking us into the harsh reality of modern society. With sharp eyes, “Parasite” becomes a mirror that takes a sharp picture of existing social dynamics. Director Bong Joon-ho is able to deeply depict the differences between social classes, highlighting the contrast between the luxurious life of the Park family and the difficulties of life for the Kim family.
In this cinema, the power of narrative lies not only in its unpredictable plot, but also in its ability to inspire change. “Parasite” invites us to look deeper and question the norms that exist in society. This film touches on issues such as economic inequality, social oppression and personal ambition, presenting a moral message that can raise awareness.
In the midst of the onslaught of issues of inequality, “Parasite” emphasizes that cinema has a bigger role in driving change. Films are not just about entertainment, they are also about providing new perspectives, stimulating critical thinking, and making us aware of the complex realities around us. Through the screen, we can watch stories that open our eyes to injustice, making cinema a powerful tool for voicing change and raising social awareness.
“Parasite” has made a mark as a work of art that not only fulfills the entertainment needs of the audience, but also contributes to the formation of a critical view of social reality. With the power of cinema presented in this film, we are reminded that every work can be a medium for change, encourage conversation, and provide benefits on the journey towards a more just society.