봉준호, 황금종려상 안고 귀국..."한국 영화 100년 선물"같다
Bong Joon-ho came home to a hero's welcome today, after becoming the first South Korean director to win the top prize at the Cannes Film Festival for his film "Parasite."
Yoon Jung-min has more.
Bong Joon-ho arrived home from France on Monday afternoon after winning the top prize at the world famous Cannes Film Festival on Saturday for his latest movie 'Parasite'. On his arrival, he shared his joy in front of the media.
"It's such a pleasure. It's not only my first time winning, but the first time winning for the entire Korean film industry. (...) The Cannes Film Festival has given a big present to the Korean film industry to celebrate its 100th anniversary."
Actor Song Kang-ho also shared Bong's success with him. Song has been with the director almost every step of the way since they first worked together in 'Memories of Murder' more than 15 years ago.
"Support and affection from you, the movie fans, has made today's result possible. I think the achievement was possible thanks to all the love and support for Korean films."
The black comedy, which uses satire to highlight the gap between the rich and poor, has been acclaimed by critics and viewers,... even getting an eight-minute long standing ovation after its screening at Cannes.
Experts see the movie as a potential gamechanger for the South Korean film history.
"This year is 100th anniversary of Korean cinema. It's very timely awards with a lot of new coverages about Korean films. It's encouraging to see. It is a healthy industry."
Bong has been lauded for the meticulous quality of his work and his attention to detail.
As well as his stunning cinematography, he makes use of satire and humor to shine a light on social issues.
Bong's 2003 hit 'Memories of Murder' uses satire to jab at the incompetence of state power.
Bong's 2006 release 'The Host' satirizes the helplessness of people within society as a family has to fight a monster alone to save their daughter.
His signature themes appear again in his later works, 'Snowpiercer' in 2013 and 'Okja' in 2017.
'Parasite' follows similar themes.
While shooting his films, Bong has always paid extra care to his child actors in particular, and emphasized the need to stick to the maximum working hour rule to improve working conditions for those on set.
Bong Joon-ho's 'Parasite' hits cinema screens across South Korea on Thursday. Bong said he is excited but nervous about showcasing his work for the first time in his home country.
Yoon Jung-min, Arirang News.
