Bong Joon-ho’s Perfect Shots

The One Perfect Shot team celebrates the most noteworthy shots in the acclaimed South Korean director's stunning filmography.

Bong Joon-ho is the man of the moment following Parasite’s massive success, but the South Korean director has dazzled audiences for years. Whether he’s making dark comedies, crime thrillers, science fiction, or monster movies, Bong is always guaranteed to bring a unique spin to any genre he tackles, and that’s why he’s one of the most exciting directors working today.

Of course, another appealing element of Bong’s movies is their impeccable craftsmanship. While each movie is distinct in its approach to filmmaking, he is fond of wide shots, overhead shots, and close-ups. Furthermore, many of these shots are quite thought-provoking, as they tend to convey the themes he’s exploring at the time, as well as reflect the mood of the film’s characters or the situation they’re in.

The director’s films also tend to use colors to reflect the characters’ mental, personal, or social states. A prime example is Parasite, which contrasts bright colors with dark ones as a metaphor for class divisions and social unrest. Bong is a masterful visual storyteller, and all of his movies contain some unforgettable imagery that sticks with you.

With this in mind, let’s take a look at some of the most impressive shots in the director’s oeuvre. Some are significant for the reasons discussed above. Others are just pleasant on the eyes or fun. Some will make you laugh, while others will send chills down your spine. But regardless of their meaning, I’m sure you’ll agree that they’re pretty perfect.


Barking Dogs Never Bite (2000)

Cinematography by Cho Yong-kyou, Jo Yeong-gyu

Barking Dogs Never Bite


Memories of Murder (2003)

Cinematography by Kim Hyung-ku


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