If you’re a fan of horror movies, you might be wondering if the South Korean film “Parasite” is worth watching. The movie has been making waves in the film industry, winning multiple awards and receiving critical acclaim.
But is it actually scary? Let’s take a closer look.
The Plot
“Parasite” tells the story of two families: the Kims and the Parks. The Kims are a poor family living in a cramped basement apartment, struggling to make ends meet. When their son Ki-woo is offered a job tutoring the daughter of the wealthy Park family, they see an opportunity to improve their financial situation.
As Ki-woo becomes more involved with the Parks, the rest of his family finds ways to infiltrate their household as well. However, things start to take a dark turn as secrets are revealed and tensions rise between the two families.
The Genre
While “Parasite” has elements of suspense and thriller, it’s not exactly a horror movie. There are certainly moments that will make you jump or feel uneasy, but it’s not filled with jump scares or gore like traditional horror films.
Instead, “Parasite” is more focused on social commentary and exploring themes like classism and inequality. Director Bong Joon-ho has described it as a “tragicomedy,” blending humor with darker undertones.
The Atmosphere
Despite not being a full-on horror movie, “Parasite” still manages to create an eerie atmosphere that keeps you on edge throughout. The cinematography is excellent, using lighting and camera angles to heighten tension in certain scenes.
There are also several moments where you’re not quite sure what’s going to happen next, which adds to the overall sense of unease. Even during seemingly mundane scenes like dinner parties or tutoring sessions, there’s always an underlying tension bubbling just beneath the surface.
The Verdict
So, is “Parasite” scary? It depends on your definition of what constitutes a horror movie. While it’s not a traditional horror film, it’s certainly unsettling and has moments that will make you feel uneasy.
However, if you’re looking for something with lots of jump scares or gore, you might be disappointed. “Parasite” is more focused on social commentary and exploring deeper themes.
If you’re a fan of movies that make you think and challenge your perspective, “Parasite” is definitely worth watching. It’s a well-crafted film with excellent performances and a thought-provoking storyline. Just don’t expect to be hiding under the covers afterward.
- Pros: Eerie atmosphere, thought-provoking storyline
- Cons: Not a traditional horror film
In Conclusion
“Parasite” is not your typical horror movie, but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth watching. The film manages to create an unsettling atmosphere that keeps you on edge throughout, even during seemingly mundane scenes.
While it may not have lots of jump scares or gore, it more than makes up for it with its excellent cinematography and thought-provoking storyline. If you’re looking for something different from the usual horror fare, give “Parasite” a try.
