Movies like “Parasite” often explore themes of social inequality, class struggle, and the complexities of human relationships. While “Parasite” is a South Korean film, there are many other movies from around the world that delve into similar themes without being Korean. Here are some notable examples:
## Japanese Cinema: Shoplifters
“Shoplifters” is a Japanese film directed by Hirokazu Kore-eda, released in 2018. It tells the story of a makeshift family living on the margins of Tokyo, struggling to make ends meet. The film explores themes of family, love, and survival in a society that often overlooks its most vulnerable members. Like “Parasite,” “Shoplifters” delves into the complexities of class and social inequality, though it does so with a more subtle and introspective approach[1].
## American Thrillers: Memento
“Memento” is a psychological thriller directed by Christopher Nolan, released in 2000. While it does not directly address class warfare, it is a groundbreaking film known for its non-linear storytelling and exploration of memory and identity. Like “Parasite,” it challenges traditional narrative structures and keeps viewers engaged with its suspenseful plot[4][5].
## British Mystery: Last Night in Soho
“Last Night in Soho” is a murder mystery film directed by Edgar Wright, released in 2021. It combines elements of mystery, thriller, and fantasy as it follows a young woman who discovers she can travel back in time to 1960s London. While not directly focused on class struggle, it explores themes of identity and the darker aspects of human nature, similar to how “Parasite” uncovers the secrets beneath the surface of a seemingly perfect family[5].
## French Social Commentary: The Class
“The Class” is a French film directed by Laurent Cantet, released in 2008. It is based on a novel by François Bégaudeau, who also stars in the film. The movie follows a teacher in a tough Parisian suburb as he navigates the challenges of educating a diverse and often difficult group of students. Like “Parasite,” it explores themes of social inequality and the struggles faced by those on the margins of society.
## Spanish Drama: Volver
“Volver” is a Spanish film directed by Pedro Almodóvar, released in 2006. It is a drama that explores the lives of three generations of women in a working-class Madrid neighborhood. The film delves into themes of family, love, and survival, often using humor and drama to highlight the social and economic challenges faced by its characters. While not as overtly focused on class struggle as “Parasite,” it shares a similar emphasis on the resilience and resourcefulness of those living on the fringes of society.
## Italian Neorealism: Bicycle Thieves
“Bicycle Thieves” is a classic Italian film directed by Vittorio De Sica, released in 1948. It is a seminal work of neorealism that tells the story of a poor man whose bicycle is stolen, which he needs for his job. The film explores themes of poverty, desperation, and the struggle for survival in post-war Italy. Like “Parasite,” it highlights the harsh realities faced by those living in poverty and the moral dilemmas they often confront.
## British Social Commentary: I, Daniel Blake
“I, Daniel Blake” is a British film directed by Ken Loach, released in 2016. It follows the story of a carpenter who, after a heart attack, is denied benefits and must navigate the complexities of the welfare system. The film is a powerful critique of social inequality and the bureaucratic systems that often fail those in need. Like “Parasite,” it sheds light on the struggles of the working class and the injustices they face.
These films, while diverse in their settings and styles, all share elements of social commentary and exploration of human relationships that make them comparable to “Parasite” in their thematic depth and impact.
