Analysis of Common Criticisms in 'Parasite': A Korean Film

The 2019 South Korean film 'Parasite' by Bong Joon-ho was a groundbreaking hit, winning numerous awards including the Palme d'Or at Cannes and an Academy Award for Best Picture. Despite its acclaim, the film has not been without its critics. In this article, we will explore some of the criticisms levelled at 'Parasite' and assess their validity.

Pacing Issues

One of the most common criticisms of 'Parasite' is the perceived pacing issues. The film's second act is often singled out for being too slow, particularly when focusing on the dynamics within the wealthy Park family. Some viewers argue that this slows down the momentum of the narrative, making the film feel drawn out.

Character Development

While 'Parasite' successfully establishes its main characters, some critics argue that the secondary characters, particularly the Parks' housekeeper and her husband, lack fully developed personalities. This can lead to a lack of emotional connection with their fates, making it harder for the audience to empathize with their struggles.

Suspension of Disbelief

The film's plot does contain elements that may stretch the audience's suspension of disbelief. For example, the ease with which the Kim family infiltrates the Park family's household and the very gradual uncovering of the deception might be seen as improbable. Additionally, the movie's plot points, such as the series of coincidences that allow the Kims to take over the Park home, might seem too convenient for some viewers.

Social Commentary

Many admirers of 'Parasite' appreciate its sociopolitical commentary on class disparity. However, some critics argue that these messages can come across as too simplistic or heavy-handed. The film's conclusion, in particular, has been subject to various interpretations, leading to debates about the implications of class struggle.

Ending Ambiguity

The film's ending leaves much open to interpretation, and this has both critics and audiences divided. Some see the ambiguity as a thought-provoking exploration of themes, while others view it as a lack of resolution or a missed opportunity to deliver a clearer message about the themes presented.

Cultural Context

For viewers unfamiliar with South Korean culture, some elements of the film's narrative may not resonate as strongly. Nuances and social dynamics that are deeply rooted in Korean society might be missed, leading to misunderstandings of character motivations or societal critiques.

Cultural Inconsistencies

There are factual inconsistencies in 'Parasite' that have been highlighted. For instance, the Kims are depicted as running home in the rain and shoes only appear later. If they had left their shoes at the entrance, they would have been noticed by the Parks. More likely, they left them in the garage or in their pockets, walking home drenched in rain, then into nearly neck-deep water. Additionally, their phones continued to function normally the following day, despite exposure to this environment.

Despite these points, 'Parasite' remains a significant work that challenges viewers to think critically about class, wealth, and the complexities of human relationships. The film's success and critical acclaim are testimony to the talent and vision of Bong Joon-ho.