"Parasite"

Bong Joon-Ho’s “Parasite” tells the story of a poor South Korean family, the Kims, who ingeniously inveigle their way into employment at the home of the wealthy Park family. Just as we seem to be settling into an amiable tale about small-time grifters, however, events take a dark turn…

"Parasite"

Inevitably, given the film’s huge critical and awards success, expectations will be high. Indeed, there is nothing new in the subject-matter of “Parasite” – social inequality and family love; and the directorial style is clever without being flashy – none of the high-tech visuals of Bong’s “Snowpiercer”. The narrative switcheroo raises the emotional stakes considerably, however, with Jaeil Jung’s score creepily evocative, without being manipulative.

Inevitably, there will be talk of an American re-make, but it’s hard to think of a director who could handle the tale’s changes of tone without lessening its impact – and any suggestions might constitute a spoiler.

Suffice it to say, while it is not as dazzling a piece of work as, say, “1917”, “Parasite” is well deserving of the continuing acclaim.

"Llyrf Glas Nebo" / "Winners"

After the traditional January drought, two theatre review assignments came up in close succession. First up was Manon Steffan Ros’ adaptation of her best-selling Y.A. novel “Llyfr Glas Nebo” (“The Blue Book Of Nebo”), a post-apocalyptic tale set in North Wales and presented in Welsh with (on the night I attended) English sur-titles; a touching portrayal of a mother-son relationship under impossible conditions. The next evening, also in the Sherman Theatre, but in the studio space, was the latest in their irregular “Get It While It’s Hot” series of “A Play, A Pie and A Pint”-style presentations:– Lowri Jenkins' “Winners”, about a relationship defined by the love of rugby; funny and poignant.

Incidentally, it was good to see the Sherman foyer abuzz, with two plays on at the same time – a rare occurrence in recent years.