Bong Joon-ho is, without a doubt, one of the best filmmakers in the world. Though many people in North America can’t pick him out of a line-up or know his name off the top of their head, the films he’s released in recent years have become hits even in the US, including “Snowpiercer” and “Okja.” Other films, like “Mother” and “The Host” may not have the name recognition of the others, but have become favorites among film fans that are willing to go a bit deeper into his filmography.
But now, Bong is back with “Parasite.” The upcoming drama has been selected as part of the Cannes Film Festival, and with it, a huge spotlight has been put on the filmmaker hoping to impress the French event attendees. Not much is known about “Parasite,” other than some obtuse descriptions about how the story revolves around a family that becomes obsessed with another family. From there, an incident happens that changes the course of both families’ lives forever.
Even with all the anticipation for his film, recently, the filmmaker said it might not play well for an international audience. He admitted (via Variety), “‘Parasite’ is full of details and nuances that are specific to Koreans. I think the film’s Korean premiere after Cannes will be the most exciting moment for me.”
“Parasite” stars Song Kang-ho, Jang Hye-jin as the wife, and Park So-dam and Choi Woo-shik, best known his work in “Okja” and “Train to Busan,” as the married couple’s children. Rounding out the cast are Lee Sun-kyun and Jo Yeo-jeong.
“Parasite” is set to premiere as part of the competition for the Palme d’Or at this year’s Cannes Film Festival. A worldwide theatrical release has yet to be determined, but NEON has purchased the North American rights.
You can watch the first two clips below, as well as see three new pictures:
