Secrets Behind the Success of Parasite: The Menus, Sets, and VFX Techniques

Introduction

@Parasite, directed by Bong Joon-ho, is a groundbreaking film that masterfully explores the contrast between the wealthy and the impoverished. One of the most ingenious aspects of this critically acclaimed movie is the meticulous attention to detail in set design, visuals, and the use of visual effects (VFX). In this article, we delve into the secrets behind the success of Parasite, shedding light on the use of VFX shots, the creation of the Park family's home, and the production design that set it apart.

The Park Family Home: A Masterclass in Splicing Reality and VFX

One of the most noteworthy elements of Parasite is the Park family home. What makes this set particularly fascinating is that it was not a real house, but rather a complex blend of VFX and practical effects. The production designer, unlike many Hollywood blockbusters, managed to integrate fantastical elements into a believable setting. The house used a total of around 500 VFX shots to create a five-story structure, of which one entire story was blue screen footage.

The house's interior and exterior were filmed at different locations. The street outside the family home was CGI, as director Bong Joon-ho wanted a specific slope that wasn’t naturally present. Blue screen techniques were used to adjust and manipulate the terrain to meet the director's vision. Similarly, the interior's walk-throughs required extensive use of blue screen to create a seamless transition between the two.

Production Design and Setting Contrast

The production design warrants special mention, as it is integral to the film's thematic strengths. The house's construction and layout highlight the stark contrast between the rich and the poor. The Park family resides on the upper level of the house, a stark contrast to the humble abode of the Kim family, which is situated at a lower ground level. This decentralized and stratified living space symbolizes the wealth divide not just in the film but in society at large.

The placement of the rain scenes also plays a significant role, as the poor family's struggle to navigate the rain and the rich family's indifference to it accentuates the disparity between the two social classes. The naive walk of the poor family to the rich family's house, accompanied by a delayed dolly and over-the-shoulder shots, further amplifies the tension and irony inherent in their journey.

The Role of VFX in Driving the Plot Forward

In addition to its visual prowess, the use of VFX in Parasite serves to enhance the narrative. Consider the intricate car chase and driving scenes, which are entirely realized through green screen technology. These scenes include the famous conversation between Mr. Park and Mr. Kim and Mrs. Park that ensues. The ability to meticulously place each VFX shot, from the road to the characters' movements, highlights the technical expertise of the film's VFX team.

The storytelling in Parasite benefits immensely from the careful use of VFX. It allows the director to create memorable and impactful moments, such as the struggle to climb down the stairs, the final bomb sequence, and the iconic car chase. Without these VFX elements, the visual spontaneity and overall fluidity of the film would be significantly diminished.

Relevance in the Current Climate

The themes explored in Parasite are all the more poignant in the current global climate of quarantine and economic disparity. Echoes of the film can be found in classical films like The Lower Depths and in the recent works of Jordan Peele. The movie serves as a modern commentary on social class and the struggles faced by those at the bottom of the economic ladder.

In the context of the global health crisis and ongoing socio-economic inequalities, Parasite becomes a symbol of hope and resilience for those facing adversities. Its ability to draw parallels between the past and present highlights the universality of human struggles.

Conclusion

The success of Parasite lies in its ability to transcend the limitations of production design and VFX, showcasing the power of storytelling. Its detailed and thoughtful use of blue screens, green screens, and VFX shots, combined with sharp social commentary, has made it a standout in the world of cinema. As we navigate through challenging times, Parasite reminds us of the importance of portraying the human experience in all its complexities.