The Host - some spoilers

A monster created from the dumping of formeldahyde in the river. Where have we seen this one before? And the dumping under the orders of the US nonetheless. There are political undertones about the way the US handles certain issues, such as taking over and using biological warfare. Their rumour of a virus, and the revelation that there isn't actually a virus is no surprise, given how many films depict governments that keep the truth to their own best interests. In this case, poor Gang Du is forced to undergo numerous tests, including having his skull drilled through so that the scientists could examine his brain for signs of the virus. One test he passed with flying colors is his undying love and devotion to his daughter, despite being a mess in the other aspects of his life.
After a slow start, the film picks up pace with the emergence of the monster surfacing the water and beginning its hunt. The film results as touching and funny as a group of misfits of a family fall together as they search for their little girl (granddaughter/daughter/niece). Each has their own strengths and weaknesses that come to play in the search and although it was a shame that the ending was at is, but to no surprise. Anything else, and it would have felt forced to have a really happy ending. The audience is not disappointed though despite this, as the children's fate become predictable. So too do the child actors steal the show in their time in the sewer.
An entertaining piece and if you liked Jurassic Park or any other creature monster movies, this one's for you. The only question is, how many times can a person brush death from the same Grim Reaper?