In a year where cinema reached new heights, one film stood out as a monumental achievement, earning widespread acclaim and securing the most coveted award in the industry: the Oscar for Best Picture. With a 99% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a string of accolades, this film captured hearts and minds worldwide. That film is Parasite, a South Korean masterpiece directed by Bong Joon-ho.
A Cinematic Masterpiece from South Korea
At the heart of Parasite lies the gripping tale of the Kim family, living in poverty and struggling to survive in a society where wealth and class divide families like never before. The story takes a sharp turn when Ki-woo, the son of the Kim family, manages to secure a job tutoring English for the wealthy Park family. From there, the plot spirals into a series of unforeseen events that explore themes of class conflict, social inequality, and the disparities in wealth that shape our world.
Bong Joon-ho, known for his unique storytelling in films like Snowpiercer and Okja, masterfully blends satire with thrilling suspense in Parasite. What makes the film truly exceptional is the way it tackles capitalism through a lens that is both clever and accessible. Co-written by Bong Joon-ho and Han Jin-won, the film features an ensemble cast led by Song Kang-ho, Lee Sun-kyun, and Cho Yeo-jeong, who bring the complex characters to life with impeccable skill. The film’s stunning visuals, courtesy of cinematographer Hong Kyung-pyo, draw audiences into a world where every shot tells a story.
What really sets Parasite apart, however, is its ability to fluidly navigate between comedy and thriller, often in the same scene. It’s a delicate balance that keeps you on the edge of your seat while also making you laugh, albeit often uncomfortably. The haunting score by Jung Jae-il further enhances the tension, adding to the film’s eerie atmosphere.
Beyond its technical brilliance, Parasite serves as a stark reflection on the social inequalities that persist in modern society. It resonated so deeply with audiences that it sparked a cultural phenomenon. The term “Hell Joseon,” which describes the hardships faced by modern-day South Koreans, became synonymous with the film’s sharp critique of societal structures. Even the film’s quirky depiction of the fictional noodle dish, “ram-don,” quickly became a household name, further cementing Parasite’s place in pop culture.
An International Triumph
When Parasite premiered at the Cannes Film Festival in 2019, it made history by winning the Palme d’Or, the festival’s top prize. But the accolades didn’t stop there. At the Academy Awards, the film made history again by becoming the first non-English language film to win the Oscar for Best Picture. In addition to that historic win, Parasite took home Best Director, Best Original Screenplay, and Best International Film, making it the most decorated film of the evening.
Critics were just as impressed, praising the film for its ingenious script, meticulous direction, and timely social commentary. The New York Times’ A.O. Scott called it “wildly entertaining,” while Variety’s Jessica Kiang described it as “a film soaked in the bitter blood of class rage.” In the words of Mark Kermode from The Observer, Parasite is “a tragicomic masterpiece that will burrow under your skin and gnaw at your cinematic soul.”
Financially, the film also defied expectations, grossing over $263 million worldwide—a rare feat for a South Korean film. In France, nearly 1.9 million people went to see it, a rare achievement for a foreign film. This widespread success wasn’t just about box office numbers; it signaled a turning point in the global film industry, ushering in an era where films in foreign languages were not just considered niche, but as deserving of recognition as any Hollywood blockbuster.
A Turning Point for the Industry
The Oscars win for Parasite marked a milestone for international cinema, paving the way for greater recognition of films from around the world. The film’s success is a testament to the power of storytelling that transcends language and geography. With its blend of universal themes, brilliant direction, and impeccable acting, Parasite proved that cinema is not confined to one language or culture—it is a global language that speaks to us all.
If you haven’t seen Parasite yet and you’re a lover of film, now is the time. It’s a work of art that has left an indelible mark on the world of cinema, and its relevance continues to resonate with audiences today. Bong Joon-ho’s triumph is a reminder that, no matter where a film is made, great stories always find their audience—and that sometimes, the best films are the ones that make us see the world a little differently.
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Jason R. Parker is a curious and creative writer who excels at turning complex topics into simple, practical advice to improve everyday life. With extensive experience in writing lifestyle tips, he helps readers navigate daily challenges, from time management to mental health. He believes that every day is a new opportunity to learn and grow.
