Anne Hathaway’s film Colossal will become available on Netflix in the United States starting February 9, offering viewers a new chance to experience this unique sci-fi black comedy. Known for her diverse roles, Hathaway stars as Gloria, a writer battling alcoholism who discovers she controls a giant creature wreaking havoc in Seoul, South Korea.
The Plot and Key Performances in Colossal
Colossal, released in 2016, follows Gloria’s return to her hometown in New Hampshire where she takes a job at a bar while grappling with her addiction. The film blends dark humor with science fiction elements as Gloria realizes her actions influence a terrifying monster in Seoul, creating a connection between her personal struggles and the monster’s destruction.
The movie features a strong ensemble cast, including Jason Sudeikis as Oscar, Austin Stowell as Joel, Tim Blake Nelson as Garth, and Dan Stevens among others. Hathaway’s portrayal of Gloria is praised for its comedic timing and emotional depth, capturing the complexities of a flawed yet compelling character who must navigate both internal demons and external threats.
Mixed Reactions from Critics and Viewers
Colossal had a modest box office performance, earning $4.5 million against a $15 million budget. Critics, however, mostly applauded the film, particularly highlighting Hathaway’s and Sudeikis’ performances. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a Certified Fresh rating of 82%, reflecting positive critical reception of its originality and tone.
In contrast, audience reactions have been less favorable, with the film scoring 58% on the Popcornmeter. Many viewers expressed disappointment, describing the story as slow or poorly written, and noted that promotional materials gave misleading expectations about the film’s nature. On IMDb, Colossal holds a score of 6.2 from over seventy thousand reviews, where some audience members voiced frustration about the mismatch between the trailer and the movie’s actual content.
A Renewed Opportunity on Netflix
With its upcoming release on Netflix, Colossal has the potential to reach viewers new to the film without prior expectations shaped by trailers or box office impressions. This streaming availability may allow the movie to find an appreciative audience who can engage with its distinctive mix of sci-fi and dark comedy.
Anne Hathaway’s performance in this film underscores her versatility beyond the dramatic and charming roles for which she is well known, demonstrating her skill in blending humor with complex character study. As Hathaway prepares for upcoming projects like the adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s Verity and a sequel to The Devil Wears Prada, Colossal serves as a reminder of her range and knack for unexpected roles.
“It wouldn’t be the first time critics and audiences disagreed on the reviews of a film or a TV show.” – unnamed source
