Confronting Reality in Bong Joon-ho's Parasite: An In-Depth Analysis of the Son's Destiny

Introduction

Bong Joon-ho's critically acclaimed film Parasite has captivated audiences worldwide with its uncompromising take on social class and the struggles of the underprivileged. The film's powerful ending, where the protagonist son struggles to save his father from a harrowing situation, remains a point of deep contemplation. In this analysis, we explore the director's intent behind the ending and the overall themes of Parasite.

Director's Vision: Honesty and Frankness

In an interview, Bong Joon-ho shared his reasoning for the somber ending, stating, 'Maybe if the movie ended where they hug and fades out the audience can imagine 'Oh it’s impossible to buy that house' but the camera goes down to that half-basement. It’s quite cruel and sad but I thought it was being real and honest with the audience.' This stark conclusion to the film underscores the director's desire to present the harsh realities of social and economic inequality without sugarcoating the truth.

The Unanswered Questions: A Critical Examination

The ending of Parasite leaves many questions unanswered. The son, despite his ambition and efforts, finds himself in a world where every opportunity is fraught with obstacles. The fact remains that he is not yet in a position to buy the house, symbolizing the struggles faced by the lower classes in society.

Irony and symbolism play a significant role in the film. The smell of poverty is a recurring motif, serving as a constant reminder of the systemic issues the characters face. Despite the son's genuine efforts and aspirations, the disparity between his dreams and reality is overwhelming.

Is the Son's Ambition Feasible in the World of Parasite?

Within the context of Parasite, it is clear that the son's attempt to save his father is an ambitious but nearly impossible task. Even the meager successes that he achieves are overshadowed by the harsh realities of their social and economic situation.

Considering the societal barriers and systemic issues portrayed in the film, it is explicitly clear that the son is not in a position to save his father in a literal or metaphorical sense. The film’s ending emphasizes the profound tragedy of the characters' circumstances, highlighting the futility of their dreams against the oppressive backdrop of a capitalist society.

Unanswered Questions and Further Reflection

One might question if the son could do something to save his father. However, as Bong Joon-ho alludes, the film's conclusion is a commentary on the very nature of ambition in such a challenging environment. The son's efforts, though poignant and admirable, are ultimately undermined by the systemic and societal barriers that are beyond his control.

Some viewers might find it comical to suggest using an insect spray on a parasite, but such a metaphorical solution would ignore the deeper thematic and social implications of the film. The use of insect spray would trivialize the serious issue of systemic inequality and the challenges faced by the marginalized.

In conclusion, the ending of Parasite serves as a powerful reminder of the reality of social and economic inequality. It highlights the futility of individual ambition in a structured society and leaves the audience questioning the choices and outcomes in a world where the rich live in opulence, while the poor struggle to survive.