Colossal

Colossal (2016), directed by Nacho Vigalondo, is a genre-blending film that combines indie drama, dark comedy, and kaiju-style monster movie elements. The story follows Gloria (played by Anne Hathaway), an out-of-work writer dealing with alcoholism and a recent breakup, who returns to her small hometown to regroup. There, she reconnects with an old childhood friend, Oscar (Jason Sudeikis), and begins working at his bar. But things take a surreal turn when Gloria discovers she is somehow connected to a giant monster wreaking havoc in Seoul, South Korea—its movements mirroring her own actions in a nearby playground. What starts as quirky and humorous quickly morphs into a darker exploration of abuse, control, and personal accountability. Critically, Colossal was praised for its originality, unexpected tonal shifts, and strong performances, especially from Hathaway, who brings emotional nuance to a character struggling to reclaim her agency. Jason Sudeikis also subverts expectations with a menacing turn that challenges his usual comedic persona. The film uses its fantastical premise as an allegory for toxic relationships and inner demons, framing its monster story as a deeply human metaphor. Despite being modest in budget and release, it gained a strong cult following and was celebrated for pushing the boundaries of genre storytelling. Colossal stands out as one of the most inventive and emotionally resonant films in the monster movie genre.