Godzilla Minus One (2023)

Summary
Godzilla Minus One has been generating a lot of buzz, and while many may have differing opinions, I firmly believe this film is a standout in the Godzilla franchise. Yes, there are plenty of thrilling destruction scenes, but the true heart of the story lies in its human element. The characters are compelling, and Godzilla himself has never been more terrifying. If you can, watch this on IMAX—you’ll thank me later.

Plot
Set against the backdrop of a Japan still reeling from the devastation of war, a new crisis emerges when a colossal monster, Godzilla, rises from the depths to wreak havoc.

Review
It’s an exciting time for Godzilla fans. Alongside the Monarch: Legacy of Monsters TV series and the upcoming Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire, we now have Godzilla Minus One. Though I’m a bit late to the party due to a hectic schedule, I finally managed to experience this film in IMAX—and it blew my expectations out of the water. This may just be one of the best Godzilla movies ever made.

The movie takes place shortly after World War II, with Japan devastated by air raids. Just as the country begins to rebuild, Godzilla, a monstrous creature, emerges and begins his destructive rampage.

What sets Godzilla Minus One apart is its portrayal of Godzilla as the most terrifying version of the creature to date. His jagged, ferocious appearance ensures that he’s more of a nightmare than the occasional antihero we’ve seen in other films. The movie succeeds by making you fear Godzilla rather than cheer for him.

The human characters are what truly elevate this film. In previous Godzilla movies, the human element was often the least engaging part, but here it’s the opposite. Koichi Shikishima (played by Ryunosuke Kamiki), a failed kamikaze pilot, is an interesting protagonist. His struggle with survivor’s guilt and his emotional journey make this Godzilla film one of the most human and relatable. After a thrilling introduction, the pacing slows down slightly to allow for character development, but it never drags. As a viewer, you become deeply invested in the characters, rooting for them to overcome this new threat.

Visually, Godzilla looks more like a living, breathing creature than ever before. The film features stunning special effects that bring the monster to life in ways we’ve never seen before. Despite the deep narrative and focus on character development, there are still plenty of action-packed moments, with impressive set-pieces, especially when Godzilla unleashes his atomic breath.

Hearing the iconic Godzilla theme in IMAX was a surreal experience, and it has never sounded more epic.

Overall, Godzilla Minus One is not just a great Godzilla movie; it’s one of the best films of 2023. While I’m excited for Godzilla x Kong, this one is going to be tough to top.

About the Film
Godzilla Minus One marks the return of Toho’s Godzilla after the 2016 release of Shin Godzilla. The film is a reimagining of the original 1954 Godzilla and takes the franchise back to its roots by focusing on post-war Japan. The story follows Koichi Shikishima, a former kamikaze pilot, who struggles with guilt after surviving a monster attack on his base, only to face the return of Godzilla in the years that follow.

Cast

• Ryûnosuke Kamiki as Koichi Shikishima
• Minami Hamabe as Noriko Ōishi
• Yûki Yamada as Shirō Mizushima
• Munetaka Aoki as Sōsaku Tachibana
• Hidetaka Yoshioka as Kenji Noda
• Sakura Andō as Sumiko Ōta
• Kuranosuke Sasaki as Yōji Akitsu

Official Trailer
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Ending Explained: What Happens to Noriko?
The film’s ending leaves some lingering questions. In a thrilling sequence, Shikishima and his team attempt to stop Godzilla by detonating a mine in its mouth. However, the beast quickly recovers and heads toward Ginza, where Noriko works. After a catastrophic atomic breath attack, Noriko appears to be killed, deepening Shikishima’s emotional turmoil. Yet, as the final scenes unfold, we learn that Noriko survived and is safe in the hospital. The film closes with a hint of Godzilla’s regeneration beneath the sea, suggesting that the monster may rise again.

The Significance of “Minus One”
The title Godzilla Minus One carries multiple meanings. Director Takashi Yamazaki explained that it symbolizes a postwar Japan, struggling to rise from a state of zero after the devastation of war. It’s also reflective of Godzilla’s arrival before the events of the original 1954 film, making it both a prequel and a reimagining. The “minus one” can also refer to loss and the hope of overcoming hardship, themes that resonate throughout the movie.

Is Godzilla Minus One Part of the MonsterVerse?
No, Godzilla Minus One is a separate entity from the Hollywood MonsterVerse (which includes Godzilla (2014), Kong: Skull Island, and others). It is produced by Toho Studios, the creators of the original Godzilla, and fits into the Reiwa era of Godzilla films, which began with Shin Godzilla (2016).

What’s Next for Godzilla?
Although the film ends on a note of hope, the black bruise on Noriko’s neck hints that Godzilla’s influence may not be over yet. This opens the possibility for a sequel, though Yamazaki has not confirmed any future plans.

Final Thoughts
Godzilla Minus One blends emotional depth with jaw-dropping destruction. It’s a perfect blend of human storytelling and kaiju spectacle. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer to the franchise, this film offers something for everyone. If you haven’t seen it yet, do yourself a favor and watch it on the big screen!