“Parasite” is enjoying its historic victory as the first-ever foreign language film to win an Oscar for the Best Picture of the Year category. The monumental feat saw the cast and crew behind the South Korean Film take the Dolby Theatre stage on Monday to accept the award.
The win wrapped up a dominant streak for the Korean film that garnered four victories out of six nominations. The pivotal moment in cinematic history was a welcome change from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences which was widely criticized for recognizing mostly white, male figures in the film industry.
“I feel like a very opportune moment in history is happening right now,” the film’s producers Kwak Sin Ae said while delivering an acceptance via a translator.
Korean entertainment mogul Miky Lee tried his luck for a turn at the mic, but the stage lights were dimmed to limit acceptance speeches to a mere 45 seconds — such was the case for all winners. However, audiences at the Dolby Theatre protested loudly from their seats to let the lights back on.
Parasite’s victory represents a global achievement for Asian cinema as it also managed to pick up awards for best director, best international feature film and best original screenplay. Despite vying against films from seasoned directors in their “home court” if you may say, the film triumphed against major contenders “1917” and “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood.” In the end, the Academy cast its vote an underdog.
