The Host
Performance & Direction: The Host Review
Last updated: February 15, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is The Host (2013) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 6.3/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Action.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Action is often anchored by its ensemble, and The Host features a noteworthy lineup led by Saoirse Ronan . Supported by the likes of Diane Kruger and Max Irons , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
Story & Plot Summary: The Host
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 2013, The Host is a Action, Adventure, Science Fiction film directed by Andrew Niccol. The narrative delivers highly intense sequences and pulse-pounding confrontations that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Saoirse Ronan.
Story Breakdown
In this high-octane feature, Andrew Niccol establishes a narrative structure that follows a classic action blueprint: establishing the protagonist's world, introducing a formidable antagonist, and escalating the stakes. A parasitic alien soul is injected into the body of Melanie Stryder. Instead of carrying out her race's mission of taking over the Earth, "Wanda" (as she comes to be called) forms a bond with her host and sets out to aid other free humans. The film balances spectacular set pieces with character moments for Saoirse Ronan, ensuring the action serves the story rather than overwhelming it.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: The title opens with an explosive sequence that immediately establishes the stakes and introduces our protagonist in action.
- Character Arc: The main character shows growth throughout the story, though some supporting characters could have been more fully realized. Saoirse Ronan's arc is present but occasionally predictable.
- Climax & Resolution: The final confrontation delivers on the buildup, with stakes at their highest and the protagonist using everything they've learned.
Ending Explained: The Host
Ending Breakdown: Directed by Andrew Niccol, The Host concludes its story with a mix of closure and open interpretation. The finale presents its approach to action resolution.
The climactic sequence delivers on the escalating tension involving Saoirse Ronan, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes by addressing its primary narrative threads, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Character journeys reach their narrative endpoints, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the action themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of The Host reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch The Host?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Action films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of Saoirse Ronan or the director
- Want an adrenaline rush without demanding perfection
Box Office Collection: The Host
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $44.0M |
| Worldwide Gross | $63.3M |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
The Host Budget
The estimated production budget for The Host is $44.0M. This figure covers principal photography, talent acquisitions, and visual effects. When accounting for global marketing and distribution, the break-even point is typically 2x the base production cost.
Top Cast: The Host
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Where to Watch The Host Online?
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Amazon VideoApple TV StoreGoogle Play MoviesYouTubeFandango At HomeThe Host Parents Guide & Age Rating
2013 AdvisoryWondering about The Host age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of The Host is 126 minutes (2h 6m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 6.3/10, and global performance metrics, The Host is classified as a ABOVE AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 2013 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Host worth watching?
The Host is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Action movies. It has a verified rating of 6.3/10 and stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE in our box office analysis.
Where can I find The Host parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for The Host identifies it as PG-13. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of The Host?
The total duration of The Host is 126 minutes, which is approximately 2h 6m long.
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movieMx Verified
This review has been verified for accuracy and editorial quality by our senior cinematic analysts.
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
