Top Bong Joon-Ho Movies

Bong Joon Ho has become one of Hollywood’s best filmmakers, due to his unique visual style, the social subtext he presents in his films, the themes he explores and the way he is able to shift between tones seamlessly. In 2020, the filmmaker won best director at the 2020 Oscars for his dark comedy ‘Parasite’ (which also won best film). This saw the director gain mainstream attention, with fans beginning to re-visit his previous films such as: ‘Memories of Murder’, ‘The Host’, ‘Mother’ and ‘Barking Dogs Never Bite’. All of these films are also receiving Blu-ray releases from Madman Entertainment here in Australia this June. So, in honour of these recent releases, what better time to acknowledge the filmmakers incredible work, then to break down my top five favourite films in his filmography. These films have all had a profound affect on me, whether it be due to the directors style, the characters or the plots themselves, each of his films has affected me differently. So, without further ado please see below my five favourite Bong Joon Ho films, please note that these are in no particular order, because if I am being completely honest, I do not think I would be able to choose one, it changes almost every day.

Parasite (2019) – Parasite is probably my favourite film in his filmography. I saw the film twice in cinemas and have watched it another three since its Blu-Ray release in April 2020. The film is darkly witty, populated with strong performances from its talented cast. The film shifts its tone dramatically throughout the film, but in an effective way that did not make it feel tonally deaf, but rather elevated the film into new and exciting directions. 

Buy Parasite Here

The Host (2006) – Joon Ho tried his hand in directing a creature feature with 2006s ‘The Host’ and to great effect. This film is thoroughly entertaining whilst keeping to Joon Ho’s roots, the film still includes that political and social subtext that has made the director so notable. The films visual effects are also impressive, with the effects standing up today among some of Americas films during this time. Because the film does feel larger in scale than his other work as well, the film is more appealing to mass audiences and if you are new to Korean cinema, then this film would be a perfect starting point.

Buy The Host on Blu-ray Here

Snowpiercer (2014) – In 2014, Bong Joon Ho directed his first American film with the Science-fiction, social thriller ‘Snowpiercer’. This is Joon Ho’s most accessible film as it is in English and does have an all star cast including: Chris Evans, John Hurt, Jamie Bell and Tilda Swinton. The feels isolated setting on a train is also very unique. I love this setting and found it to add to the tension as there may be places to hide there is nowhere to escape. The cast are all fantastic and the themes of classism and social structures are highly relevant and handled in a thought provoking and mature manner.

Buy Snowpiercer on DVD Here

Memories of Murder (2003) – Joon Ho’s films whilst thrilling in nature, have not adapted a more traditional, thriller structure, but in 2003, Joon Ho did with Memories of Murder which follows a murder mystery, but with that directorial flare from Joon Ho. I found the film thrilling, effective and thoroughly entertaining. The film kept me on my toes throughout its runtime and has become one of my favourite murder mysteries of recent years. The film has previously not been available in Australia, but now is thanks to Madman Entertainment.

Buy Memories of Murder on Blu-ray Here

Mother (2009) – Another thriller from Joon Ho, ‘Mother’ see a mother search for the killer who framed her son for a horrific murder. This film again is suspenseful and keeps a consistent tone throughout. This film similar to Memories of Murder, plays as a more traditional thriller which I enjoyed. The film has a great sense of mystery throughout, as you are unsure what is going to happen, but you are also trying to solve the mystery along with the characters. I really loved this film and that is why it ranks here on this list.
 

Buy Mother on DVD Here

Joon Ho’s filmography is fantastic. The writer/director has a diverse catalogue of films and has made himself known as one of Hollywood’s best talents behind the camera. I cannot wait to see what the director comes up with next, make sure you check out his films today, it is well worth your time.

Christopher Pattison wrote this blog post for Sanity. See more from Chris here