Parasite

Definition

In the context of cinema, 'Parasite' refers to the critically acclaimed South Korean film directed by Bong Joon-ho, which highlights social inequality through the story of two families from different socioeconomic backgrounds. The film cleverly uses dark humor and thriller elements to critique class struggles and the vast disparities in wealth and living conditions, showcasing the impact of these issues not only in South Korea but around the world.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'Parasite' won four Academy Awards in 2020, including Best Picture, making history as the first non-English language film to achieve this honor.
2. The film's narrative structure is known for its unexpected twists, blending genres such as drama, thriller, and dark comedy.
3. 'Parasite' has been praised for its visual storytelling and cinematography, which emphasize the stark contrast between the rich and the poor.
4. Bong Joon-ho uses motifs like staircases and flooding to symbolize the barriers and struggles faced by different social classes.
5. The film resonated globally, sparking conversations about class disparity and social issues not just in South Korea, but worldwide.

Review Questions

• How does 'Parasite' illustrate the concept of class struggle within its narrative?
  • 'Parasite' effectively illustrates class struggle by contrasting the lives of the wealthy Park family with those of the impoverished Kim family. The Kim family's cunning efforts to infiltrate the Park household highlight the desperation and resourcefulness that arises from poverty. The film uses this juxtaposition to reveal how economic disparities create a cycle of exploitation, leading to tension that ultimately culminates in a shocking climax.
• In what ways does 'Parasite' employ cultural hybridity to address themes of identity and societal issues?
  • 'Parasite' incorporates elements of cultural hybridity by merging traditional South Korean storytelling with global cinematic influences. This blending allows for a universal appeal while still retaining distinct local flavors. The film’s exploration of identity is reflected through its characters who navigate their roles within different social strata, showcasing how culture and class intersect in complex ways that resonate with audiences worldwide.
• Evaluate the impact of 'Parasite's' success on global perceptions of South Korean cinema and its themes related to social inequality.
  • 'Parasite's' monumental success has significantly shifted global perceptions of South Korean cinema, elevating it from a niche market to a major player on the world stage. The film's critical acclaim has encouraged international audiences to explore more South Korean films that tackle similar themes of social inequality. By addressing universal issues through a local lens, 'Parasite' has sparked broader discussions about class dynamics that resonate beyond national borders, influencing filmmakers to engage with these pressing topics in their own work.

Related terms

Class Struggle: The tension and conflict between different classes in society, often highlighted in literature and film to explore issues of inequality and social justice.

Cultural Hybridity: The blending of different cultural elements, often seen in film as a way to reflect diverse identities and experiences shaped by migration and globalization.

Social Satire: A genre of literature and film that uses humor, irony, or exaggeration to criticize or mock societal norms, behaviors, and injustices.