In film, symbols are visual or narrative elements that carry deeper meanings beyond their literal significance. They serve as tools to communicate themes, emotions, and ideas, often resonating with the audience on a subconscious level. One good example is ‘Parasite’.
‘Parasite’, directed by Bong Joon-ho, is a darkly comedic and socially insightful thriller that explores class inequality, the dynamics between the rich and the poor, and the tensions within society.
The title ‘Parasite’ reflects the idea of exploitation on both ends. While the Kim family slowly leeches off the Parks by occupying roles within their home, the Parks themselves are depicted as parasitic in their dependence on the labor of others. This dual parasitism is a metaphor for how different classes feed off each other – the wealthy exploiting the labor of the poor, and the poor leveraging their talents to climb social rungs – all while trapped in the same cycle.
Bong Joon-ho uses the Parks’ home as a symbol of this division. The house, designed with sleek modern architecture, has multiple levels, which physically represent the hierarchical separation between the two families. The Kims reside in a semi-basement apartment, a space that symbolizes their lower social status—literally below the surface, both in terms of geography and societal position.
Even the lighting in Parasite plays an important role in reinforcing the film’s themes. In the Parks’ mansion, the lighting is bright and pristine, creating an atmosphere of wealth and clarity. In contrast, the Kim family’s apartment is dark and poorly lit, mirroring their struggle and their position in society. Even the shadows and lighting in the basement evoke a sense of hidden, suppressed existence.
Parasite uses symbols to communicate the idea that class distinctions are not just social constructs but also tangible, physical, and hidden realities that influence every aspect of life. It forces the audience to confront the uncomfortable truths about wealth, poverty, and the inescapable divides that exist between them.