Parasite, directed by Bong Joon-ho, is a 2019 South Korean dark comedy thriller that captivated audiences worldwide. The film brilliantly explores class disparity, societal norms, and the struggle for survival, all wrapped in a gripping and unpredictable narrative . With its intricate plot and masterful storytelling, Parasite won the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival and multiple Academy Awards, including Best Picture.
Parasite is a treasure trove of literary devices. Here are ten notable ones, illustrated with specific scenes:
1. Symbolism
Movie Scene Device Example The Kim family in their semi-basement apartment The semi-basement symbolizes their lower socio-economic status. The flood destroying the Kim family’s home The flood symbolizes the fragility and instability of their lives.
2. Irony
Movie Scene Device Example The Park family hiring the Kims, unaware of their connection Dramatic irony as the audience knows the truth, but the Parks do not. Mr. Kim’s belief in a plan when everything goes wrong Situational irony highlighting the unpredictability of life.
3. Foreshadowing
Movie Scene Device Example The flood warning on the news Foreshadows the catastrophic flood that affects the Kim family. Ki-woo receiving the scholar’s rock The rock foreshadows both hope and impending danger.
4. Metaphor
Movie Scene Device Example The staircase in the Park’s house Represents the social hierarchy and class divide. The scholar’s rock Symbolizes wealth and aspiration.
5. Juxtaposition
Movie Scene Device Example The lavish Park household versus the Kim’s cramped semi-basement Highlights the stark contrast between wealth and poverty. The flood scene versus the Parks’ camping trip Juxtaposes the Kim’s disaster with the Parks’ carefree luxury.
6. Allusion
Movie Scene Device Example Ki-woo teaching Da-hye, referencing The Great Gatsby Alludes to the theme of the American Dream and unattainable wealth. The Parks’ son dressing as an “Indian” References stereotypes and colonialism.
7. Irony
Movie Scene Device Example Mr. Park’s disdain for “crossing the line” while the Kims are under his nose Situational irony highlighting Mr. Park’s obliviousness. The Parks’ dog eating steak while the Kims struggle for food Irony in the depiction of excess and scarcity.
8. Motif
Movie Scene Device Example The repeated reference to “smell” The motif of smell signifies social status and discrimination. Rain and water throughout the film Represents both cleansing and destruction.
9. Paradox
Movie Scene Device Example The Kims feeling victorious yet precarious Their success is paradoxically fragile. The basement dwellers feeling safe yet imprisoned They are hidden and protected but also trapped.
10. Satire
Movie Scene Device Example The exaggerated wealth of the Park family Satirizes the excesses of the wealthy. The absurdity of the Kim family infiltrating the Park household Satire on social mobility and deception.
Character Studies
Ki-taek (Mr. Kim)
Device Explanation Irony Mr. Kim’s optimistic outlook contrasts with the harsh realities he faces. Symbolism His role as a driver symbolizes his subservient position in society.
Chung-sook (Mrs. Kim)
Device Explanation Juxtaposition Her practical nature contrasts with the Park family’s naivety. Irony Her background as a former athlete contrasts with her current situation.
Ki-woo (Kevin)
Device Explanation Foreshadowing Receiving the scholar’s rock foreshadows his aspirations and fate. Metaphor His role as an English tutor represents his desire for upward mobility.
Ki-jung (Jessica)
Device Explanation Symbolism Her art skills symbolize creativity and deception. Satire Her false identity mocks the elitism of art education.
Park Dong-ik (Mr. Park)
Device Explanation Irony His ignorance about the Kims’ scheme despite his keen sense of smell. Juxtaposition His wealth and power contrast with his lack of awareness and vulnerability.
Character Dynamics
The relationships between characters drive the narrative and themes in Parasite. For instance, the symbiotic yet parasitic relationship between the Kim and Park families exemplifies the film’s central theme of class struggle. The contrasting dynamics between Mr. Kim and Mr. Park highlight societal hierarchies, while the interactions within the Kim family showcase their unity and desperation.
Social Class and Inequality
Device Explanation Symbolism The semi-basement apartment and the Park’s house represent different social strata. Juxtaposition The contrasting living conditions of the Kims and Parks highlight inequality.
Deception and Morality
Device Explanation Irony The Kims’ deceptive actions are morally ambiguous, leading to unexpected consequences. Paradox The Kims’ dishonesty brings them temporary success but ultimate downfall .
Survival and Family
Device Explanation Metaphor The scholar’s rock represents both hope and burden for the Kim family. Motif The recurring theme of smell ties into the survival instincts and societal judgment.
Visual and Sound Techniques
Literary Device Technique Explanation Symbolism Visual contrast in set design Highlights the disparity between the Kims’ and Parks’ living conditions. Irony Music and sound design Juxtaposes upbeat music with tense scenes to emphasize ironic situations. Foreshadowing Lighting and color palette Dark, foreboding lighting in the Kim’s home foreshadows their misfortune. Juxtaposition Camera angles and perspectives Contrasting high and low angles to depict power dynamics. Motif Repetitive sound cues The recurring use of rain and water sounds to signify cleansing and chaos.
Key Scenes
The Peach Allergy Scene
Scene Breakdown: Ki-jung uses peach fuzz to trigger the housekeeper’s allergy, leading to her dismissal. This scene exemplifies deception and the lengths the Kim family will go to infiltrate the Park household.Link: Peach Allergy Scene
The Birthday Party Scene
Scene Breakdown: The climax of the film, where all secrets unravel during Da-song’s birthday party. This scene uses irony , foreshadowing , and symbolism to deliver a powerful message about the consequences of deception and societal inequality.Link: Birthday Party Scene
To wrap up this comprehensive analysis of Parasite, here’s an interactive quiz to test your understanding of the literary devices used in the movie. Let’s see how well you’ve grasped the nuances of Bong Joon-ho’s masterpiece!
Quiz
Which literary device is used to highlight the contrasting living conditions of the Kim and Park families?
What does the scholar’s rock symbolize in the film?
a) Wealth and aspiration
b) Despair and hopelessness
c) Power and control
d) Fear and danger
How does the film use the motif of smell?
a) To indicate love and affection
b) To signify social status and discrimination
c) To highlight environmental issues
d) To depict happiness and joy
Which character’s actions best illustrate the theme of deception?
a) Ki-taek (Mr. Kim )
b) Chung-sook (Mrs. Kim )
c) Ki-woo (Kevin)
d) Ki-jung (Jessica)
What cinematic technique is used to enhance the literary device of foreshadowing ?
a) Music and sound design
b) Lighting and color palette
c) Camera angles and perspectives
d) Visual contrast in set design
Answer key:
b) Symbolism
a) Wealth and aspiration
b) To signify social status and discrimination
d) Ki-jung (Jessica)
b) Lighting and color palette
