If you are in the mood for a movie with the feel of the best of the 1950's monster films, look for this movie from Korea, The Host. It has a great balance between humor and horror and enough subplots to keep you interested. The special effects for the monster do not upstage the story of a quirky, dysfunctional family; but perfectly place this powerful, oddball creature into a real world setting.The weakest part of the film is the English speaking actors. They deliver their lines like they were being directed by Ed Wood - just read, not acted. The rest of the movie more than makes up for this problem.
The director, Bong Joon-ho, does a wonderful job of keeping you interested, entertained, and thinking. The pacing of the film works well. Again, balance is the key word. There is balance between full blown action and slower introspective scenes.
The Host is in theaters now, probably with subtitles. The only dvd's out are from regions outside the US. You will need a special region free player to watch them.Violence and adult language give it an R rating.
