The Host

Asian monster movies get a big jolt of postmodern temperament and special effects execution from South Korean writer/director Bong Jooh-ho as he takes the genre to a new level. Using an actual event of U.S. Army toxic dumping in Seoul’s Han River as its stepping-off point, the plot unleashes a giant tadpole creature capable of doing as much damage on land as in the water. A riverside snack stand owner (Byeon Heui-bong), his son Gang-du (Song Gang-ho) and granddaughter Hyeon-seo (Ko A-sung) are among the first unfortunate populace to be attacked by the monster that absconds into the river with the teenaged Hyeon-seo in its grip. A government quarantine and an impotent U.S. military abet against Gang-du’s efforts to save his daughter from the beast until he escapes to carry out his mission. Part social satire, horror, comedy and family drama "The Host" is an exciting example of cinematic bravura that signals a new day for Asian cinema.

Not Rated. 119 mins. (B+) (Four Stars)