Parasite (2019)

It seems that in the United States of America, nothing is original anymore. At least, that is what the assumption is. But, if one were to look outside the country, there exists a whole slew of original material just waiting to be watched. And look no further than the country of South Korea. That is where today's film “Parasite” is the definition of originality. Directed by Bong Joon-ho and co-Written by him, the movie is a cautionary modern allegory of the poor taking on the rich. But what makes “Parasite” truly stand out is that the movie is something us Americans need more than ever. It's all thanks to one little country all the way across the Pacific. From it's acting, direction, set and production design, to even the little details that require multiple viewings to get an accurate detail of what is going on. “Parasite” is one of those films that thrives on originality, and make the use of its country to a great maximum.

The story is a little complicated to explain; just keep in mind, that you have to experience the movie for yourself in order to understand it. But I'll try my best not to spoil the movie. The plot of the film involves a poor family living in South Korea trying to make ends meet. A friend of the son comes by and tells him that he works for a very rich family, and that he is going abroad. He asks the son to take over his job, to which the son accepts gratefully. Soon, the son gets his family into working for the rich people. But as this family learns, everything comes with a price...

“Parasite”, like I said. Is one of those films that you just have to see for yourself in order to fully understand, but here's what I mean when you need to see this movie.

The setting is perfect for this film; it couldn't happen here in the United States, as it would impose as a difficulty within the context of the story. That and the cinematography are absolutely stunning. From the shifting weather of sunny to rain, the movie really looks good, and it is required to have it played out on the big screen, if possible.

On a technical level, “Parasite” excels in everything. From the lighting to the sound, everything is mixed and edited extremely well, as it is handled in a direction that fits the nature of the film itself. Top that with a minimalist orchestrated score, and you got yourself one amazing film to view.

However, there are two things that work in a grandiose manner for “Parasite”.

First, the direction from Bong Joon-ho is absolutely stunning. From the blocking of actors, to the when the intense moments occur, including two very important scenes with the poor family trying to escape the rich family's house, and an intense thunderstorm, his direction is everywhere. It is simply the best. Bong Joon-ho is clearly starting to become one of the best directors of modern cinema, and “Parasite” clearly shows that this man has potential.

The most important aspect for this movie is the story. Cultures clashing, the importance of family, it's all here, and handled extremely well. Contrasting a run time of a little over two hours, the story grips the viewers attention on the edge of their seats, with jaws dropping and eyes wide open, the story is full of twists and turns that you will not see coming.

However, while the story is really good, and providing some inciting social commentary, there are some problems with it. For one thing, there are some plot holes and situations that don't make a whole lot of sense, and it seems like the poor family planned this in advance. But other than that, the movie itself is a damn solid piece of entertainment.

Overall, “Parasite” is a magnificent film that truly proves there is potential for originality to shine through. We just got to look for it.