The Host is the film that introduced filmmaker Bong Joon Ho to the world. Originally screening at Cannes and released in South Korea in 2006, The Host was Bong Joon Ho’s first film to receive worldwide theatrical distribution (it landed in the U.S. in 2007).
The movie has an international feel to its production, even if the story feels distinctly Korean. As with many of Bong’s films, The Host can be enjoyed by a wide audience for its grand production and gripping story, but there are layers of meaning woven into every scene if you know where to look.
Without getting into a full analysis of The Host, the story is about a family. The Park family. One day a monster created from chemicals dumped into the Han river snatches young Park Hyun-seo. Her father, Gang-du, failed to keep her safe despite his best efforts, and he and the rest of his family search for Hyun-seo when they find out she is alive but trapped in the creature’s lair.
The film is fantastic, and if you’re a fan of monster movies with strong emotional moments, I highly suggest you watch it on the big screen.
Magnolia Pictures will release The Host in U.S. theaters on November 20, 2026.
