I believe the next viewing of Colossal may leave something to be desired. Meanwhile, this oddball science-fiction drama failed to captivate me. By being unoriginal and laced with the driest humour, it’s tempting to bring Avatar and Pacific Rim into the conversation.

Gloria (Anne Hathaway) drinks too much. Apart from making her forgetful, it has taken its toll on current boyfriend Tim (Dan Stevens). The latter won’t tolerate her dishonesty or laziness any more. He even goes to the trouble of packing her bags. Nice of him.

Moving on, Gloria arrives in New Hampshire, the place where she attended school. She meets an old friend, Oscar (Jason Sudeikis). He’s a nice, personable chap who provides furniture and steady employment. Then the news breaks: MONSTER ATTACKS IN SEOUL. Captivated by the headline, she experiences a greater shock when the creature’s actions appear to be linked to her own.

If writer/director Nacho Vigalondo could stage better jokes, then Colossal might have a chance. Sadly, the dialogue proves parched at best. This inexplicable motion picture boasts a lonely gimmick which expends its purpose very soon. Also, Hathaway who would normally generate some laughter or empathy, seems stranded here. Above all, she comes across as brittle. Actually, her character has made a mess of things. Thus, operating the monster makes her gush even more.

Try as he might, Vigalondo forces the film into some unpleasant areas, ending up with smoke in the process. (Capsule review)

(Released by Neon and rated "R" by MPAA.)

For more information about Colossal, go to the IMDb or Rotten Tomatoes website.