I saw Godzilla Minus One last night — a Japanese language reboot of the franchise — and I am surprised to say that it was great. Not just great as a fun, escapist, monster movie. But it was actually a compelling dramatic film.

Produced by Toho International (the same studio that made the original Godzilla in 1954) it is a period piece that takes place in post-World War II Japan. What sets it apart from other entries in the series and the comical number of spin-offs and reboots, is that rather than make the monster the star, and the people merely cardboard cutout characters to be stomped on, this version focuses on developing characters first, and Godzilla becomes almost secondary even in driving the action.

I don’t like spoilers, so will just say that the film follows a Japanese pilot who, in the opening scene, bails out of a kamikaze mission, and then freezes when given a clear shot at Godzilla early on. Returning to a ravaged Tokyo after the war, he must confront a mix of shame, PTSD, and survivor’s guilt, while, quite by accident a woman and child end up living with him despite being strangers. The story is absorbing enough, that it holds your attention even when Godzilla is not on the scene, and makes the monster’s rampages (and the battles against the monster) that much more suspenseful.

Perhaps I will share more thoughts that include spoilers once more people have had a chance to catch it in the theaters, but for now, I’ll just say — go see it.

QOSHE - Godzilla Minus One Is a Great Movie — Not Just a Great Monster Movie - Philip Klein
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Godzilla Minus One Is a Great Movie — Not Just a Great Monster Movie

5 19
05.12.2023

I saw Godzilla Minus One last night — a Japanese language reboot of the franchise — and I am surprised to say that it was great. Not just great as a fun, escapist, monster movie. But it was actually a compelling dramatic film.

Produced by Toho International (the same studio that made the original Godzilla in 1954) it is a period piece that takes place........

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