The film revolves around the Kim family, who is living in poverty in a cramped basement apartment, struggling to survive. When the eldest son, Ki-woo, is offered a high-paying job as an English tutor for the wealthy Park family’s daughter, he sees an opportunity to improve his family’s economic situation. Slowly and steadily, the Kims infiltrate the lives of the Parks, using their cunning, wit, and deceit to secure positions in the home.
However, as the film progresses, it becomes clear that the two families are fundamentally different. While the Kims live in squalor, the Parks enjoy a lavish lifestyle, with their beautifully designed house, luxury cars, and a staff that takes care of every need. The Kims’ cunning plans soon go awry, leading to unforeseen consequences.
Parasite is a brilliant exploration of social class and inequality, exposing the inherent flaws in the capitalist system. Through the Kim family’s struggles, the film showcases how poverty and lack of opportunities can leave people with no other option but to resort to desperate measures. The film also shows how the wealthy, especially those born into it, can take their resources for granted and often fail to recognize the privilege they have.
The film is also skillfully directed, with Bong Joon-ho’s unconventional storytelling techniques building tension and surprising the audience at every turn. The characters are all complex, multidimensional, and impeccably acted, making for an engrossing watch.
One of the most striking aspects of Parasite is its use of symbolism, exemplified by the recurring motif of “stairs” and “basements.” The Kims literally have to climb up a hill and a flight of stairs to reach the Park’s house, highlighting their social and economic status. On the other hand, the Parks’ house is built on a higher level than the street, symbolizing their literal and metaphorical superiority.
Another key symbol is the basement, which serves as the Kims’ home and the setting for the film’s climax. The basement is dark, cramped, and abandoned, representing the Kims’ struggle for survival. The Parks, on the other hand, have a luxurious basement that serves as a bunker, so that they can be protected from any unforeseen threat.
In conclusion, Parasite is a must-watch film that combines social commentary, thrilling plot twists, and unforgettable characters. It’s a film that challenges our preconceived notions of class, privilege, and morality, and forces us to confront the harsh reality of inequality. Its success at the Oscars not only showed the power of cinema but also signaled a new era in which non-English language films can finally receive recognition and transcend borders.