The Oscar-winning film Parasite (2019) by South Korean director Bong Joon-ho has captured the attention of audiences worldwide with its gripping storyline and thought-provoking themes. It delves into the complex dynamics of social class and provides a sharp commentary on the stark differences between the wealthy and the poor. The film has received widespread critical acclaim for its clever storytelling and powerful message, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in exploring the nuances of class in modern society.
The film follows the Kim family, who live in a cramped basement apartment and struggle to make ends meet. The family’s fortunes change when their son, Ki-woo, gets a job as a tutor for the wealthy Park family. Slowly but surely, the Kim family manages to infiltrate the Park family’s luxurious lives, with each member taking on different roles in the household. However, their newfound prosperity comes with a price as they become entangled in a web of lies and deceit. As the two families’ worlds collide, Parasite exposes the stark realities of social class and its impact on individuals and society as a whole.
One of the most significant commentaries on class in Parasite is the stark contrast between the living conditions of the two families. The Kim family lives in a cramped, dark basement apartment, while the Park family resides in a lavish mansion with modern amenities. This stark difference is a reflection of the vast disparity between the wealthy and poor in society. The Kim family struggles to make ends meet, while the Park family lives a life of luxury without any financial worries. This disparity highlights how wealth is distributed unequally in society, with some living in opulence while others struggle to survive.
Moreover, the film also exposes how individuals from different social classes are treated differently. The Kim family is looked down upon by the Park family, who see them as inferior due to their lack of wealth and social status. This is evident when the Park family’s young son, Da-song, makes a remark about how the Kim family’s smell is different, underlying the deep-rooted classism in society. The film also depicts how the wealthy can use their power and privilege to manipulate and exploit those from lower social classes, as seen in the Park family’s treatment of the Kim family.
Furthermore, Parasite also sheds light on the lengths individuals from lower social classes are willing to go to improve their lives. The Kim family’s relentless pursuit of infiltrating the Park family’s lives showcases the desperation and struggle to escape poverty. This is a harsh reality for many individuals from lower classes who are forced to take on multiple jobs or resort to illegal activities to survive. The film highlights that this is not a matter of choice but a result of systemic inequality and the lack of opportunities for upward mobility for those from lower social classes.
One of the most impactful scenes in the film is when heavy rain floods the Kim family’s basement apartment, forcing them to evacuate. In contrast, the Park family’s home remains untouched by the weather. This scene is a powerful metaphor for the unequal distribution of resources and opportunities in society. While the wealthy can easily weather any storm, those from lower classes are left vulnerable and powerless. This scene also foreshadows the events that unfold later in the film, where the Kim family’s lives are turned upside down due to their lack of privilege and resources.
In addition to its commentary on class, Parasite also addresses themes of greed and morality. As the Kim family becomes more entangled in the Park family’s lives, they begin to lose their moral compass and prioritize their own interests over others. This is evident in their actions towards the previous housekeeper and her husband, as well as their manipulation of the Park family. The film highlights how societal structures, particularly class, can influence and corrupt individuals’ morals.
In conclusion, Parasite is a masterful film that offers a sharp commentary on class and its impact on individuals and society. It sheds light on the stark disparities between the wealthy and the poor, the treatment of individuals from different social classes, and the struggle for upward mobility for those from lower classes. With its powerful storytelling and thought-provoking themes, Parasite serves as a wake-up call for society to address the deep-rooted issues of classism and inequality.
