Gisaengchung (2019)
Parasite / 기생충
Raiting: 
8,5 /10
Genre: Drama
Director: Bong Joon Ho
Stars: Song Kang-ho, Lee Sun-kyun and Cho Yeo-jeong
Country: South Korea
Release date: 30 May 2019
Length: 132 minutes
"Gisaengchung", known internationally as "Parasite", is a 2019 South Korean dark comedy thriller directed by Bong Joon Ho. The film is a sharp social commentary on class inequality that cleverly intertwines humor, suspense, and tragedy. It tells the story of two families at opposite ends of the socioeconomic spectrum whose lives become entangled in an unexpected series of events.
The Kim family, consisting of father Ki-taek, mother Chung-sook, daughter Ki-jung, and son Ki-woo, live in a cramped, squalid basement apartment. They struggle to make ends meet through low-paying temporary jobs. Their fortunes seem to take a turn for the better when Ki-woo is given the opportunity to tutor Da-hye, the daughter of the wealthy Park family, thanks to a recommendation from his friend who is leaving to study abroad.
Seizing the opportunity, the Kims ingeniously and deceitfully embed themselves into the lives of the Parks. Ki-jung becomes the art therapist to the Parks' young son, Da-song, Ki-taek takes over as the family's driver, and Chung-sook replaces the housekeeper. The Kims keep their familial ties hidden and begin to enjoy the comforts of working for the affluent Parks.
However, their easy ride comes to a jarring halt when the former housekeeper returns with a secret that threatens to expose the Kims. The film takes a dark turn as a violent clash ensues, leading to a catastrophic series of events that reveal the devastating consequences of the class divide.
"Parasite" masterfully blends genres, creating a unique film that defies categorization. Bong Joon Ho's direction is meticulous, with every scene crafted to contribute to the film's overarching themes. The narrative is gripping, with twists that keep the audience on the edge of their seats. It's a film that starts as a black comedy and morphs into a thrilling and emotionally impactful drama.
The movie's critical acclaim and numerous accolades, including the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival and four Academy Awards, are a testament to its quality and the universality of its themes. "Parasite" is not just a story about a South Korean family; it's a commentary on the human condition and the societal structures that shape our lives, making it a relevant and resonant film for audiences around the world.
Top cast - Gisaengchung (2019)
Trailer - Gisaengchung (2019)
Bong Joon Ho's "Gisaengchung", internationally celebrated as "Parasite", is a masterful exploration of social stratification and the pervasive impacts of systemic inequality. Released in 2019, this South Korean film has transcended linguistic and cultural barriers to become a global phenomenon, capturing audiences' imaginations with its ingenious storytelling, dark humor, and poignant social commentary. "Parasite" is not just a movie; it's a meticulously crafted narrative that holds a mirror to society, compelling viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about the world we inhabit.
At its core, "Parasite" is a tale of two families—the wealthy Parks and the impoverished Kims—whose lives become intertwined in a complex web of deceit. The film begins with a light-hearted tone, almost playful, as the Kim family ingeniously infiltrates the household of the Park family. However, Bong Joon Ho masterfully steers the narrative into darker territories, unveiling layers of irony, tragedy, and suspense. The shift is so seamless and organic that the audience is swept along, almost complicit in the unfolding drama.
One of the most striking aspects of "Parasite" is its visual storytelling. Bong Joon Ho uses the film's settings—the luxurious Park residence contrasted with the Kim's semi-basement apartment—to symbolize the vast chasm between the wealthy and the poor. The cinematography is not just beautiful; it's purposeful, with each frame contributing to the narrative's emotional depth and thematic complexity. The use of vertical space throughout the film, in particular, serves as a powerful metaphor for social hierarchy and ambition.
The performances in "Parasite" are universally outstanding, with each actor delivering a nuanced portrayal that adds depth to their characters. The ensemble cast works synergistically, ensuring that no single performance overshadows the others. This balance is crucial, as the film's impact lies in its portrayal of the family unit as a microcosm of society. The characters are complex, their motivations layered, making it impossible to categorize them simply as villains or heroes.
What sets "Parasite" apart is its ability to defy genre conventions. Bong Joon Ho blends elements of comedy, drama, and thriller to create a film that is at once entertaining and thought-provoking. It's a social satire that never feels preachy, a family drama that avoids sentimentality, and a thriller that eschews gratuitous violence. The result is a cinematic experience that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant.
In conclusion, "Parasite" is a film that deserves all the accolades and acclaim it has received. Bong Joon Ho has crafted a masterpiece that challenges viewers to reflect on the nature of inequality and the human condition. It's a film that lingers in the mind long after the credits roll, a testament to its power and relevance. In a world rife with division, "Parasite" offers a vital and unflinching look at the barriers that separate us and the shared humanity that binds us.