Jun 19, 2026 3:01pm IST
‘Colony’ Review: The Zombie Film Starring Jun Ji Hyun And Koo Kyo Hwan Is Clever But Stumbles On Predictable Execution
Filmmaker Yeon Sang Ho takes pride in creating zombie magic. The 2016 “Train to Busan,” starring Gong Yoo, Ma Dong Seok and Jung Yu Mi in the lead roles, became a global hit, which was followed by a nimble but convincing sequel, “Peninsula,” in 2020. Setting such a precedent may or may not have worked against his latest submission to the genre, the action-horror fiesta “Colony.” Taking the tried-and-tested concept of a zombie outbreak, the film manages to flip it on its head by placing vengeance at its core.
Led by Jun Ji Hyun (Gianna Jun) and Koo Kyo Hwan, actors Ji Chang Wook, Moon So Ri and Go Soo’s introduction makes for a strong cast lineup. But not many can translate their acting chops into bringing forth a reliable experience.
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Much to the credit of the direction, audiences can expect to be drawn into the apocalyptic realm of mutating creatures right from the get-go. With a 122-minute run time, the film thankfully wastes no time in showcasing the quick-learning nature of its creatures, intensifying the impact later with an aptly timed twist that changes the game in favor of the last (wo)man standing. That does not, however, do much for the film’s weak and unsurprising writing, where only the jump scares provide relief to viewers spending their time watching it.
Seo Young Cheol’s (Koo Kyo Hwan) menacing presence demands a worthy mention. As the rightful villain, he takes charge of wreaking havoc in the Korean land with his principles and keeps up the act right to the end. At no point does the film offer a saving grace for his character, even as the plot digs into the cause behind his actions.
“Colony” is honest in its portrayal of human greed and the state of politics around the world, turning friends into foes and giving cathartic closure to pivotal characters, but wraps up with much left to be wondered. So much so that a theater full of late-night viewers, expecting a Marvel-style end credits scene to sweep them off their feet in glee, will be left treading back, questioning if that really was the conclusion.
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