Parasite (2019)

Director: Joon-ho Bong

Starring: Kang-ho Song, Yeo-jeong Jo, So-dam Park

All unemployed, Ki-taek’s family takes peculiar interest in the wealthy and glamorous Parks for their livelihood until they get entangled in an unexpected incident.

‘Parasite’ can be summarized in a single word: WOW!

Director Joon-ho Bong brought us the incredible films ‘Memories of Murder’, ‘The Host’, ‘Mother’, ‘Snowpiercer’ and ‘Okja’, and now ‘Parasite’. Starting out as a comedy, the film soon reveals itself for what it truly is. This brilliant script has an ingenious set-up, morphing into a full-on, devious thriller.

Initially appearing innocent, the antagonist family’s plan soon becomes evident as they infiltrate the lives of an unsuspecting wealthy family – at first through subtle, seemingly innocent actions, which become increasingly more sinister as their plans fall into place. The film has a few interesting twists. Kang-ho Song is excellent as usual. He is an incredibly versatile actor. I’ve seen him in comedies, action movies, horrors and thrillers and he simply never disappoints.

The setting in the big mansion is really awesome, versus the dilapidated neighborhood the antagonist family comes from. The behavioral differences are also very effectively illustrated. Although some moments might be considered too convenient to be realistic, the execution thereof is excellent, making this yet another classic, unforgettable Korean thriller.

‘Parasite’ won awards for Best Director, Best Film, Excellence in the Art of Filmmaking, among others. The film currently holds a 99% approval rating.

In Korean.

Would I watch it again? Definitely.