SEOUL – In a creative endeavor blending admiration and originality, director Yeon Sang-ho has adapted Hitoshi Iwaaki's renowned manga "Parasyte" into a Korean context, retitled "Parasyte: The Grey." Ahead of its imminent release on Netflix, Yeon expressed his long-standing fascination with the manga, which he considered foundational during his formative years. His adaptation aims to explore the intricate theme of coexistence through a fresh lens while remaining faithful to the manga's original premise of a world infiltrated by alien parasites.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the conception of "Parasyte: The Grey" began with a letter to Iwaaki, sharing his vision for a series that extends the manga's universe into a Korean setting. Gratifyingly, Iwaaki responded positively, granting Yeon creative freedom to interpret and expand upon the story. Set against the backdrop of South Korea, the series introduces viewers to an alarming scenario where humans fall prey to extraterrestrial parasites capable of assuming control over their host bodies. The narrative centers around Su-in, portrayed by Jeon So-nee, who becomes a hybrid entity after a life-altering encounter with a parasite named Heidi.
The storyline delves into the evolving relationship between Su-in, a character burdened with solitude, and Heidi, the alien force residing within her. Despite initial resistance, Su-in gradually accepts her new reality, unveiling a complex bond that transcends the typical predator-prey dynamic. This unusual alliance not only grants Su-in a renewed zest for life but also serves as a metaphor for the broader concept of coexistence that Yeon aims to explore.
"Parasyte: The Grey," slated for release on April 5 on Netflix, continues Yeon's exploration of societal themes, much like his previous works such as "Train to Busan" and "Hellbound." The six-part series not only promises to be a significant addition to Yeon's filmography but also a thought-provoking narrative that challenges viewers to reconsider the boundaries between different forms of life.