[FEATURE] The thriller film everyone is raving about, “Parasite”

“Jessica, Only Child, Illinois, Chicago”.

You’ve probably seen this viral phrase making its rounds on the internet, and wondered about its origin. To those who have watched “Parasite”, this phrase shapes one of the best motives in the movie, and sets the scene of a family’s impending upward social mobility by swindling an aristocratic family. In the recent Oscars 2020, the movie bagged home four awards, winning the prestigious title of “Best Picture”. However, what makes this highly acclaimed film disparate from other typical Korean movies dealing with the issue of social mobility?

Social Mobility, but Romantic Love does not Take the Front Line

We’ve probably heard or watched the poor girl, rich boy narrative for many years now, and directors tend to exploit this repetitive trope in many Korean dramas and movies. However, Parasite amalgamates kinship and social mobility into one, and subtly highlights the issues that plague modern Korean society. Bong Joon Ho utilises family love to create an ingenious film that will touch even the blackest of hearts.

They say that two is better than one, but is four is better than one?

Will They Succeed?

One of the questions that you will find yourself asking is if the protagonists of the plot will succeed in their mission of swindling the rich. Through the different stages of the narrative, revelations will emerge, and complications will arise. Will these factors throw a wrench in their plans? We all have a certain character that we are rooting for, and in this movie, there are four characters to bet on. Who will you choose?

All Great Movies have Plot Twists

Some might argue that the greatest movies include unforeseen plot twists that change the tide of the narrative. Parasite capitalises on twists throughout the movie — it does not have a quintessential storyline that can be easily predicted, but one that will keep you mind boggling at the edge of your seat. If you do not want a conventional plot that is straightforward, Parasite should undoubtedly be the next movie on your watchlist. The best part about watching the movie is that you will finally understand the “Jessica, Only Child, Illinois, Chicago” reference, and jump on the Park Sodam bandwagon. Last but not least, the masterly talents of those who are involved in the movie (especially the spectacular cast and Bong Jong Hoon) would be exposed to you in all of its glory.