Bong Joon-ho movies showcase a range of genres which tell a different and equally magnificent story each time. In the recent documentary, Yellow Door: ’90s Lo-fi Film Club, showcases Joon-ho’s early life when he established a film club along with like-minded friends. Moreover, it also includes the secret short film, Looking For Paradise, which was the director’s first animated short film. The film was the beginning of many more mesmerising projects that made a mark on the world of cinema.
Joon-ho has directed 7 feature films and Parasite among them won an Oscar for Best Picture, making it the first non-English movie to win in that category. The director is currently working on Mickey17 starring Robert Pattinson in the lead role which is set to release in 2024. However, this list explores Joon-ho’s extensive filmography and celebrates his work of art.
Bong Joon-ho Movies
White Man
The director’s first debut short film, White Man follows the story of a man who finds a severed index finger on the way to his workplace. However, what makes the plot interesting is his unusual reaction to the incident. He is not phased by the finger and rather finds it amusing. Later he finds out that it belongs to a man who lost his finger during an accident at the industrial factory. Right from his early work, Joon-ho’s fascination with class differences can be seen and traces of it heavily lingers around in his recent works. Joon-ho’s bizarre storytelling method will help one understand the filmmaker’s thought process.
Memories in My Frame
Directed and written by Joon-ho this short film follows a boy who comes back from school and hears his dog barking. This movie was released while he was still a student at the Korean Academy of Film Arts. The duration of the movie is just under 5 minutes which tells the story of a little boy. Although it is not one of his best works, it is definitely very different from all his other approaches.
Incoherence
Released in 1994, this short film follows the story of three men committing petty crimes in the streets of South Korea before the telecast of a major debate on social disorder. Although the three men are unrelated, they come together at the end to comment on the current conditions of the society. Bong Joon-ho’s thought-provoking short film was truly his first step towards greatness. Traces of instances from this movie can also be seen in his later films, creating a unique world of its own.
Barking Dogs Never Bite
Released in 2000, this South Korean gem explores the life of an unemployed college lecturer who becomes increasingly irritated by the constant barking of dogs in his apartment complex. What starts as a simple quest to silence the noisy canines evolves into a bizarre and morally complex journey. Barking Dogs Never Bite is a prime example of Bong Joon-ho’s ability to blend humour with social commentary, creating a unique cinematic experience that lingers in the mind long after the credits roll. Joon-ho’s direction is both inventive and compelling, with a mix of suspense and satire that keeps the audience engaged throughout.
Memories of Murder
Set against the backdrop of rural South Korea in the 1980s, the film masterfully weaves a compelling narrative around the hunt for a serial killer, drawing inspiration from real-life unsolved murder cases. The film is driven by exceptional performances, particularly by Song Kang-ho and Kim Sang-kyung, whose complex characters add depth to the story. Joon-ho’s expertly crafted suspense, coupled with its reflection on the shortcomings of society and justice, leaves a haunting impact on the audience.
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The Host
Joon-ho masterfully weaves a subtle yet scathing commentary on environmental negligence, government cover-ups, and the power dynamics of a nation. Released in 2006, the film follows the story of a dysfunctional yet endearing family as they grapple with a grotesque creature that emerges from Seoul’s Han River. The creature, a result of toxic waste dumping, is a marvel of CGI and special effects. What sets The Host apart from typical monster movies is its strong focus on character development and societal critique. Moreover, it is a thought-provoking and thoughtfully constructed film that transcends its genre conventions.
Mother
The psychological thriller centres around a complex mother-son relationship that takes a dark and unpredictable turn when the son is accused of a heinous crime. Mother is a cinematic gem that transcends genre conventions, leaving a lasting impact on its viewers. With its exceptional performances, haunting score, and masterful storytelling, it’s a film that invites reflection and discussion. The film delves deep into the complexities of motherhood, mental illness, and societal judgment, making it not just a thrilling mystery but also a profound character study.
Snowpiercer
Bong’s signature blend of dark humour and piercing social commentary infuses Snowpiercer with unique and unforgettable storytelling. Set in a frozen wasteland where the last remnants of humanity survive aboard a massive, class-stratified train, the film masterfully explores themes of social inequality and environmental disaster. The cast, led by Chris Evans and Tilda Swinton, delivers powerful performances, each character representing different aspects of society’s divisions.
Okja
The film tells the story of Mija, a young South Korean girl, and her extraordinary bond with a genetically engineered super pig named Okja. When a powerful multinational corporation seeks to exploit Okja for profit, Mija embarks on a thrilling and heart-wrenching journey to rescue her beloved companion from the clutches of corporate greed. At its core, “Okja” is a powerful critique of the meat industry and the moral dilemmas surrounding animal exploitation. The film raises profound ethical questions and challenges its audience to reconsider their relationship with food and animals.
Parasite
The movie that not only secured an Oscar but also the recipient of the Palme d’Or at the 2019 Cannes Film Festival is undoubtedly Joon-do’s best work of all time. The dark comedy-thriller takes an unflinching look at social class disparities and the consequences of economic inequality. The narrative follows the Kim family, who cleverly infiltrate the lives of the wealthy Park family, ultimately leading to unexpected and chilling consequences. Through symbolism, the director weaves a carefully crafted thought-provoking plot which remains with one for days. It’s a film that not only entertains but also challenges viewers to reflect on the socio-economic divisions that persist in our world.
Which is your favourite from the list above? Let us know in the comments below!
Also Read: Yellow Door ’90s Lo-fi Film Club Review: Bong Joon-ho’s Search For Paradise