Movie Review: Parasite

This was pretty good but definitely not “Best Picture” worthy (assuming Oscars actually mean anything to anyone these days). Parasite is a Korean film telling the story of two families — the wealthy Park clan and the impoverished Kim clan. The first half was really fun dark comedy. It gradually gets blacker as the poor Kim family becomes increasingly unscrupulous in their quest for money. It’s hard to understand why they are so destitute given the level of creativity and competence they demonstrate grifting the Park family.

The second half of the movie is not as good but still interesting. You’ll easily predict when the twist is coming because the movie telegraphs it from a mile away, but you will not likely predict what it is. The what is so-so; I had a number of better ideas in my head. Still it makes for a tense second half with an emotional ending. Some character choices towards the end dampened the impact for me as I wasn’t really sure what I was meant to take away from the film. “Something something class differences, desperate poor people.” It’s not as deep as maybe it wants to be, but it’s still a very well-executed film thanks to great performances and directing. The blend of dark comedy and drama is effective. This one is worth a watch.

Grade: B