Admittedly I missed the chance to watch Godzilla Minus One when it was released in movie theaters. Yet I was determined to watch the film when it arrived on a streaming service. Thankfully Netflix answered the call. Prior to viewing the movie I expected a typical monster flick–minimal focus on the human narrative and heavy emphasis on the monster. Instead, a compelling drama unfolded.
The original Godzilla (1954) movie focused on the dangers of nuclear weapons. The monster’s existence was directly related to humanity’s self-destructive ways. Godzilla Minus One (2023) is a reimagining of Godzilla’s origin story. Both films are the product of Japanese cinema.
How’s the story?
The new movie shown to American audiences was not overdubbed in English. The Japanese language was spoken throughout with subtitles available for the viewer. In a way, it drew greater focus on the story since the audience was required to read each word that was spoken. The protagonist Koichi Shikishima, a traumatized WW2 Japanese kamikaze pilot who abandoned his mission and more, carries the narrative rooted in soul crushing survivor’s guilt as well as a deep desire for redemption. The devastated world of early post WW2 Japan is revealed through his experience. Godzilla’s presence literally grows in tandem with the continued development of nuclear weapons. As a result, an inevitable reckoning with the monster weighed heavily on the isolated Japanese people.
How are the special effects?
To the filmmaker’s credit, Director Takashi Yamazaki made sparing, but exceptionally impactful use of Godzilla in the story. Visually stunning and terrifying special effects evoked sheer fear as one witnessed the monster wreak death and destruction with impunity. It’s no surprise that Toho Studio’s Godzilla Minus One took home the Academy Award for Best Visual Effects. Given the production’s entire budget amounted to a relatively modest $15 million, the creative team achieved wonders.
The movie is rated PG-13. Can I bring my kids?
There’s a moderate level of violence and gore similar to the level found in Jurassic Park (1993). The use of profanity is limited. A profound sense of emotional loss is experienced by the characters. Dark overtones envelope the narrative. Overall, the rating of PG-13 is appropriate.
Final Thoughts
Godzilla Minus One is not a commercial venture in the way Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire (2024) aims to be. The latter is part of a franchise with a heavy emphasis on merchandising. Note the toy worthy King Kong with new battle arm weapon. Godzilla Minus One is a compelling, emotional journey culminating in a battle for redemption. The haunting images of a battle ravaged Japan still looms large in my mind, maybe more so than Godzilla himself. Perhaps that was the point. If we’re not mindful, humanity becomes the monster.
Overall Grade: A-
Recommended for ages 13 and up.
Pros: The emotional impact of the story is an unexpected pleasant surprise. The special effects deliver the power and terror of Godzilla.
Cons: The story could have used more editing to tighten up the pacing.
Godzilla Minus One official movie trailer
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