THE HOST

(10/10)

Finally, a movie that actually lives up to its hype. The Host is an exceptional film and although its still quite early, I can tell you in ease that this will certainly be making my top 10 of the year come december. The film begins very fast and we are along for the ride the whole way as we watch a family fight to save their daughter(or grandaughter, niece...whoever she is pertaining to the family!) from an unstoppable monster. Of course there are underlying themes of pollution and america's connection to foreign countries but the director does not throw that in your face too much, save for a couple of scenes. What we have here is an original film that touches on so many different genres. Sometimes with the subtitles it is hard to read humor, but it's obvious that some of this is meant to funny. Funny because it's so real, the way the family interacts, who by the way are played by some of the most likeable actors i've seen in a long time. It's nice to not have a single character that bothers you. Drama, Comedy, Tragedy, Horror flick, whatever you call it- this movie is it! Though not as scary as advertised- it sure is gripping and the creature is a sight to look at it! I was very touched by this movie, such a rare feat for this genre, but this isn't like the others anyway like I mentioned. Sometimes the movie is so exciting and heavy on energy that any scene of down time seems to just be a drag, but those scenes were necessary and that was not the movie's fault, it's just so good. Finally, the unpredictable climax will leave you breathless and drained. I would compare this to James Cameron's Aliens, which is a huge compliment. A must see, especially on the big screen. Laugh, cry, scream with THE HOST.

***I just want to say that in a time where so many bad horror movies come out, it is nice to see the latest slew of ones that pack somewhat of a psychological/emotional wallop like Hostel, The Descent and now this one. Come on hollywood, keep this up.