The newest film from writer-director Bong Joon
Ho has taken the world of cinema by storm after
debuting at 2019's Cannes film festival to an overwhelmingly positive reaction - one that was well deserved. 'Parasite’, which follows a poor Korean family as they attempt to infiltrate their way into the lives - and house - of a much wealthier family, is one of the best pieces of cinema in recent years.
It is a perfectly paced, beautifully shot and an incredibly compelling social commentary
on the effects of class divide that descends from a lighthearted comedy to something
much darker so fast you barely even notice until it’s too late - a sharp and striking reality
that gives this film an uncomfortable yet necessary edge. The visceral uneasiness of Parasite
is almost tangible, there’s intensity in the simplest of scenes and yet sometimes an eerie calm
that seems to only exist to make you worry for the next moments, whatever they may be.
Every single aspect of the film is framed in the most impeccable way to keep you on the edge
of your seat, not just watching but feeling the story that Joon Ho is trying to tell here - and
it is one spectacular story, riddled with an awareness that transcends the boundaries of
Country and Language. It’s no surprise the critical acclaim it has received - although the irony
is not lost on the fact that these award shows are often judged and attended by the privileged few
that parasite makes effort to call out - but this can’t take away from the achievements of this
masterpiece, including making history at the Oscars by being the first foreign film to win Best
Picture.
‘Parasite’ will make you laugh, it will make you angry, it will make you downright heartbroken at
times. Whatever way it does it, one thing is for sure: This incredible social satire will - much like
its namesake - work its way into your head so intensely it’s truly impossible to forget.
PARASITE IS IN CINEMAS NOW
