A thoroughly deserving Best Picture winner!

Rating: 10/10 (13 March 2020)

Captivating, intelligent, funny, unique... at times Parasite feels like an opera with its majestic score and visuals.
One of the greatest things about Parasite is its sharp plot. The way that the Kim family plot their scheme and enact their plan is brilliantly devised, and shot in the most extraordinary way. I really liked that the plot didn't bog itself down in the morality of their actions. There was no dithering about from the family and no pause for a discussion of whether what they were doing was right (which I feel an American film would have bogged itself down in). Bong Joon-ho trusted us as an audience to immerse ourselves in the world of the Kim's and just roll with what they doing.
The themes of Parasite were also very layered, some more subtle and complex than others, but all intricately connected and well thought out. The messaging throughout the film was so rich that it remained constantly engaging.
From the little I knew about this film going in I was expecting a dark thriller, so the comedy took me completely by surprise. Choi Yeon-gyo stole the show for me with her comedic scenes standing out the most, and she was perhaps unlucky not to get greater Academy recognition.
I can't sing Bong Joon-ho's praises enough for his direction on Parasite, creating such an eerie atmosphere while also nailing the black comedy. The minimalist design of the house, the bleak colours and tones, all holding their own meanings, really emphasised the messaging of the film and cultivated a constant atmosphere of unease, at times descending into full on horror.
After a second viewing/dissection I'm sure I will have more to say, but for now I will simply say that Parasite is a must watch. Intriguing from the get go and spot on with its dark humour, Parasite is sure to pave the way for a greater visibility of eastern cinema in the west.