Named by many as the film of the year, created by the possible "director of the century" (A.O. Scott), Bong Joon-ho's Palme d'Or winner Parasite (2019) smashed box office records around the world. More importantly, it has laid bare in an utterly compelling (and often hilarious) manner the corrupt reality of late-stage capitalism. Focusing on the divisions and connections between two Korean families on opposite sides of the rich/poor social divide, Parasite attempts and lands more tone shifts than should be artistically possible in one film. The results are breathtaking, as are the modernist production designs that set the stage for the definitive cinematic parable of our time. The conversation was part of MoMA Contenders, The Museum of Modern Art’s renowned series of influential, innovative films from the past 12 months. Whether bound for awards glory or cult classic status, each of these films is a contender for lasting historical significance.