Perfection. I cannot remember a time where I knew a movie had such wide universal acclaim before this movie. It definitely lived up to the hype. Parasite introduces us to the Park and Kim family. Their differences could not be anymore staggering. The Park family is incredibly wealthy, while the Kim family is only rich in street smarts. Through a twist of fate (or chance), the two families cross each other's paths, and the Kims believe they found the perfect opportunity for themselves. Through some expert planning, the Kims insert themselves as work staff (despite not having the proper credentials) to the Parks and become integral to the wealthy household. When someone threatens to ruin the carefully crafted scheme, the Kims will have to fight to make sure to keep their status with the Parks. The thing about this movie is you feel really comfortable watching it, almost like how the Kims get in their scam against the Parks. Then you get rocked off your center. I almost didn't realize what this film was going for until the ending: at the very core is a large discussion of class conflict. Parasite shows how Bong Joon-ho feels there's a big difference between your outer worth and your inner self-worth. It's evident in the ways how the Kims and the Parks juxtapose each other. The Parks could get anything without trying because they have the resources to do so. The Kims have learned how to survive on the bare minimum. The opening shot of the Kim kids trying to find a place where they can get wifi, all to end up fighting for space in a small cramped bathroom, really makes you feel some type of way. Especially when the Parks have enough money to get their kids tutors and therapists along with household help. This film reminds you that this is not a fantasy piece. It's a hard reality that Bong Joon-ho has firm opinions on. A lot is said from body language and the use of space rather than the use of subtitles. The way the Parks and Kims are presented and dance around each other shows their vast differences. The illusion that you can be or do anything feels so bittersweet and jarring by the time you reach the film's climax ending. It's a hard reminder that capitalism can transform you into something you may not recognize. Still with me? This film is heavy; it's framed (mostly) light-hearted you don't realize the darkness that seeps in until it's too late. You have to wonder where you fall into line as the credits roll: Are you a Kim, or are you a Park? Parasite demonstrates there are no victories when you try to play against the game of class and capitalism.
In conclusion, we love a good scam.
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