On January 5 2020, this year’s Golden Globes were held, with many different familiar faces of Hollywood who had attended. South Korean film director, Bong Joon Ho, was not only a director nominated for multiple awards, but he won the best foreign language film award for his film. Upon winning the Golden Globe, in Joon Ho said, “Once you overcome the 1-inch tall barrier of subtitles, you will be introduced to so many more amazing films.” Prior to saying this quote, Joon Ho also labeled the Oscars as a fairly “local event.” Parasite, which follows themes of class discrimination and inequality. The film has been given 99% on Rotten Tomatoes. Upon winning the Golden Globe, Joon Ho said, “Once you overcome the 1-inch tall barrier of subtitles, you will be introduced to so many more amazing films.” Prior to saying this quote, Joon Ho also labeled the Oscars as a fairly “local event,” meaning that the critically acclaimed award show, tends to focus mostly on the mainstream American films.
American award shows have been known to repeat the same themes of who they choose to acknowledge. In the years since the Oscar’s have begun, only five female directors have been nominated. It is an ongoing goal for Hollywood to represent more diversity. At this year’s Golden Globes, Awkwafina, became the first Asian-American woman to win a Golden Globe for best actress for her role in “The Farewell.” Representation in film is an on-going topic. It is important that different people are exposed to characters that they can relate to in culture, gender, sexuality or religion.
It is a preference for many to not have subtitles and to watch a movie in their native language. Though, this only closes off so many great films to much from diverse regions of the world. There exists an infinite amount of films of all different stories, being comfortable in watching those with subtitles opens us up to even more movies and perspectives on it. South Korean films such as Train to Busan and of course, Parasite and French movies such as Amélie and Amour are just some examples of the many different films to watch and appreciate. Each film explores similar themes of self-discovery, of family, of loss, feelings that are so universal in the world. To see such relatable themes, shown in different language can show a sense of familiarity and connection. Stories from each part of the world can all be discovered in film, and luckily, the time in which we are living in makes each film accessible to everyone.
Want to know which movies to start with? Here are some of Rotten Tomatoes favorites.
Photo courtesy of dazeddigital.com
