Crocodile Island (2020)

Overview

Crocodile Island is a Chinese action-horror monster film directed by Xu Shixing and Simon Zhao. Released in 2020 as a web-based feature, the movie gained attention for its over-the-top creature action and became one of the highest-grossing web films of the year in China. It combines survival thriller elements with classic monster movie tropes in a fast-paced, danger-filled adventure.

Plot Summary

The story follows Lin Hao and his teenage daughter Yi, whose routine flight crashes near the infamous “Devil’s Sea”—a mysterious area known for paranormal disturbances. The survivors find themselves stranded on a remote, uncharted island infested with enormous crocodiles, giant spiders, and other mutated beasts. When Yi is abducted by a monstrous crocodile, Lin Hao leads the remaining passengers in a desperate fight for survival, battling nature, fear, and time to save his daughter.

Main Cast

• Gallen Lo as Lin Hao – a devoted father and accidental hero

• Liao Yinyue as Yi – Lin Hao's intelligent and brave daughter

• Supporting cast includes Wang Bingxiang, He Qiwei, and Hu Xue’er as fellow survivors

Style & Execution

• Creature Features: Giant crocodiles, mutated spiders, and strange island fauna make up the core thrills

• Tone: Straightforward B-movie energy with a strong survival-horror atmosphere

• Visual Effects: Modest CGI with an emphasis on spectacle, though often criticized for lacking realism

• Themes: Family bonds, survival instincts, and the unpredictability of nature

Reception

While critically mixed, Crocodile Island found a large streaming audience thanks to its fast pacing and wild premise. It was praised for delivering popcorn entertainment but criticized for clichéd characters, implausible plot points, and dated effects. Still, its unexpected popularity marked it as a cult hit in the web-film category.

Final Verdict

Crocodile Island delivers exactly what it promises: giant monsters, high-stakes survival, and nonstop action. It may not impress with its depth or visuals, but for fans of creature features and disaster-style thrillers, it’s a fun, easy-to-watch ride—perfect for those craving chaos and crocodiles.