Review Update: Godzilla Minus One
This throwback movie, Godzilla Minus One, delivers the terror that longtime Godzilla fans have been craving. Despite the abundance of Godzilla media in recent years, something fundamental was missing – terror. The film is a stark departure from the more recent installments that borrowed heavily from the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
A Return to Terrifying Godzilla
In 2016, Hideaki Anno and Shinji Higuchi’s Shin Godzilla reignited the terror associated with the giant lizard, promising a return to the franchise’s roots. However, it marked a hiatus in Japanese live-action Godzilla films, ushering in a successful era of American Godzilla media.
A Literal Throwback
Godzilla Minus One takes Godzilla back nearly a century, stripping away the modern elements and focusing on the original recipe. Set in the aftermath of World War II, the film explores how a post-war Japan with no military, economy, or international support copes with Godzilla’s rampage.
A Ground-Level Story
This film follows Koichi Shikishima, a former kamikaze pilot, as he grapples with survival and rebuilding in the wake of Godzilla’s destruction. Unlike traditional kaiju films, the story unfolds through the eyes of ordinary people, adding a human element to the narrative.
A Classic Melodrama
Godzilla Minus One not only captures the aesthetic of the 1950s but also the dramatic storytelling style of that era. The characters engage in passionate discussions about nonviolence, self-preservation, and the burdens placed on societies during wartime.
A Terrifying Prospect
With Japan’s military decommissioned and international support lacking, the civilian population becomes the last line of defense against Godzilla. The film’s refusal to rely on easy solutions heightens the tension and underscores the terrifying reality facing the characters.
Revisiting Godzilla’s Origins
Godzilla Minus One recaptures the terror and political undertones of the original Godzilla film, using historical context to amplify the stakes and the message. The film prompts introspection on nuclear threats, responses to violence, and national resilience.
A Return to Form
For fans of the original Godzilla films, Godzilla Minus One is a long-awaited return to the franchise’s roots. It offers a fresh perspective on Godzilla as a metaphor for complex political and social issues, making it a valuable addition to the Godzilla legacy.
Streaming Availability
Godzilla Minus One is now streaming on Netflix and available for digital rental on platforms like Amazon and Vudu.