2019’s Parasite is set to be released as a graphic novel reports The Hollywood Reporter. The 304-page book will compile the storyboards from Bong Joon Ho’s critically acclaimed film. Grand Central Publishing purchased the North American publishing rights as the graphic novel has already been released in South Korea.
The report doesn’t list a price. But fans can expect this version of Parasite on May 19th. In addition to the storyboards, which were all hand-drawn by the director, the graphic novel will include dialogue, camera and stage directions that have been translated from Korean.
When speaking to The Hollywood Reporter, Grand Central Publishing’s senior editor Wes Miller had this to say:
Director Bong’s illustrations share the illuminating power of his writing and directing, making the Parasite graphic novel a gorgeous, riveting read and fascinating behind-the-scenes glimpse at the making of one of the best films of the year.
Parasite follows a poor family living in South Korea. After the teenage son obtains a tutoring position with a rich family, they each connive and scheme their way into other positions within the household. It’s a fantastically dark comedy with a powerful message about classism at its core. And this upcoming graphic novel won’t be the film’s only adaptation. Last month, HBO announced a planned miniseries with Adam McKay (The Big Short).
Parasite had a meteoric rise last year. It debuted at the Cannes Film Festival where it won the coveted Palme d’Or prize. It took home the Golden Globe for Best Foreign Language Film. But at the Oscars, it made history. It won Best Picture and was the first foreign language film ever to do so. It also won for Best Director, Best Original Screenplay, and Best International Film. These four wins also tied Bong Joon Ho with Walt Disney for most Oscars won by one person. Needless to say, it’s extremely popular. And this graphic novel is sure to be a must-have for passionate fans.
