Title: A Psychological and Sociological Analysis of Bong Joon-ho’s Parasite through an APA Style Film Review
Directed and written by Bong Joon-ho, Parasite is a 2019 South Korean psychological thriller film that provides insightful commentary on class divides and inequality in modern society. Through masterful filmmaking techniques and a compelling narrative, Parasite tells the story of the Kim family, a group of cunning con artists who infiltrate the wealthy Park household by posing as highly qualified individuals. As the Kims slowly take over the lives of the Parks, tensions rise and hidden resentments are revealed, leading to shocking and tragic consequences. This film review will provide a detailed analysis of Parasite through the lens of psychology and sociology using American Psychological Association (APA) style guidelines.
Socioeconomic Status and Class Divides
A central theme explored in Parasite is the deep socioeconomic divisions that exist in Korean society between the wealthy elite and lower classes. The film portrays the striking contrasts between the lives of the impoverished Kim family who live in a dingy semi-basement apartment and the ultra-wealthy Park family who reside in a luxurious modern mansion high in the hills. These class distinctions are emphasized through vivid depictions of the characters’ living environments, clothing, mannerisms, and access to opportunities. For example, early scenes show the cramped quarters of the Kim home versus the pristine open layout of the Park residence. Sociological theory suggests such economic inequities often breed resentment in those with less privilege towards those with power and affluence (Wilkinson & Pickett, 2009). This dynamic manifests in Parasite as the Kims slowly take advantage of the naive Parks for their own gain.
Deception, Manipulation, and Ethical Dilemmas
To improve their financial circumstances, the Kims devise an elaborating scheme where each member poses as a highly-qualified individual to infiltrate the Park household through deception. Kim Ki-woo is able to get a job as an English tutor for the Parks’ daughter after forging college credentials. He then recommends his sister for a housekeeping position and assists his friend in becoming the Parks’ driver. Later, the family plots to have the original housekeeper fired so Ki-woo’s mother can take over her job as well. These deceptive tactics raise complex ethical questions about the lengths people will go to for economic gain and security (Loewenstein et al., 2012). Sigmund Freud’s theory of the id suggests individuals’ primal instincts for pleasure and self-preservation can override rationality and morality in desperate situations (Freud, 1923). For the Kims, deceiving the oblivious Parks may feel justified given their stark disadvantaged position in society. As their scheme progresses, it has unforeseen psychological and physical consequences.
Mental Instability and Repressed Trauma
Beneath the surface of Parasite lies profound psychological turmoil simmering within and between the characters. Early scenes indicate the Kims experience mental health issues from living in poverty and lack of opportunity, exhibiting signs of anxiety, obsessive-compulsive behavior, and paranoia. Ki-woo has a twitch likely from stress and pressure. His sister Ki-jung continuously sprays herself with perfume, suggesting insecurity. Their mother has developed hygiene rituals from working in unclean environments. Furthermore, it’s implied the Kims have experienced past trauma never dealt with, such as the father’s mysterious recurring “incidents” alluded to but never explained. According to psychiatrists like Freud, repressed memories and lack of emotional processing can manifest in unexpected ways if not addressed (Freud, 1917). As tensions increase with the Parks, these underlying strains erupt with horrific implications. The film leaves questions about the role of socioeconomic disadvantages in worsening mental well-being (American Psychiatric Association, 2013).
Tragic Consequences of Resentment and Class Conflict
Parasite builds intense psychological suspense as the audience awaits the inevitable explosion between the privileged Parks and deceitful yet desperate Kims. In the film’s climactic moments, resentment and class conflict culminate in a shocking act of violence which exposes the fragility of the class divide. Jungian psychology views such explosive outcomes as the shadow self, society’s subconscious urges and anxieties, emerging in times of great stress (Jung, 1952). The horrific finale of Parasite underscores deep-seated societal issues left unaddressed will inevitably destroy from within, as the wealthy Parks placed blind trust in their employees without truly knowing them as people. While the film leaves interpretation open-ended, it highlights class inequities as kindling for explosive human passions and potential rebellion by the oppressed (Marx & Engels, 1848).
Conclusion
Through nuanced characters, a propulsive plot, and beautiful cinematography, Parasite offers profound commentary on universal societal issues like economic inequality, lack of social mobility, and class conflict. A psychological and sociological analysis reveals the film explores how socioeconomic disadvantages can exacerbate mental health problems and feed deception, while resentment simmers under thriving inequities. Left unaddressed, these underlying tensions are poised to erupt with tragic consequences, as seen in the film’s shocking climax. Overall, Parasite is a masterpiece that holds an mirror to societal weaknesses through the lens of psychological realism and philosophical depth. It prompts viewers to reflect on real-world divisions and how to build a more equitable future with understanding between all people.
Andrew Stroud