Entertainment Blog #235 | Godzilla Minus One [2023] - The Real Reptile Monster...

I reviewed a Japanese Godzilla movie, "Shin Godzilla" a few months ago. It is a different vibe. And I knew that taste will surely be there in this movie too. But the thing is, the initial announcement was that this movie would be digitally released in December this year. So I watched an HDCAM version. A few days ago, the Blu-ray version was released. How sad..

"Godzilla Minus One" is a 2023 Japanese epic kaiju film directed by Takashi Yamazaki who is known for his visual effects. Toho Studios and Robot Communications produced the film, and Toho distributed it. It also stars Ryunosuke Kamiki, Minami Hamabe, Yuki Yamada, Munetaka Aoki, Hidetaka Yoshioka, Sakura Ando, and Kuranosuke Sasaki. The film grossed nearly $116 million worldwide after being released in Japan on November 3, 2023, to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the Godzilla franchise. It is the 37th Godzilla film and Toho's 33rd. "Godzilla Minus One" received critical acclaim for its visual effects, direction, screenplay, characters, musical score, and social commentary, with many hailing it as one of the best films of 2023 and a standout in the Godzilla universe.

The movie explores the emotional and psychological struggles of former kamikaze pilot Kōichi Shikishima in the post-war times. The story begins in 1945, when Shikishima encounters Godzilla, a monstrous creature, during World War II, He was unable to do his job by gunning down the monster, leaving him with survivor's guilt and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Shikishima, who lost his parents in the Tokyo bombings, seeks solace in helping others affected by the war, such as Noriko Ōishi and Akiko, an orphaned baby. In the interim, Godzilla had mutated and gained muscles with the affect of Operation Crossroads which is an actual Nuclear bomb testing took place in 1946. His life takes a dramatic turn when Godzilla reappears, wreaking havoc and forcing Shikishima to confront his inner demons.

As Godzilla's threat develops, Shikishima begins a daring mission to put an end to the creature's attack. Along with a group of naval veterans, he creates a plan to lure Godzilla into Sagami Bay and neutralize it with Freon tanks and explosives. Despite the government's reluctance to act and the overwhelming odds against them, Shikishima is determined to protect his homeland and find redemption for his past mistakes.

Noriko and Akiko became his inspiration for this mission. Shikishima's courage and resolve are tested to the limit as the climactic battle unfolds, finishing in a heart-stopping showdown that will decide the fate of Japan and its people. Will he and the crew be able to defeat Godzilla forever? It is up to you to find out.

"Godzilla Minus One" distinguishes itself from other Godzilla films by focusing on a deeply human story connected with the monster's attack. This Japanese film focuses on the emotional and psychological aspects of its characters, including protagonist Kōichi Shikishima, unlike many Western adaptations that prioritize spectacle and action. The film's exploration of survivor's guilt, post-traumatic stress disorder, and redemption themes adds depth and complexity not found in Hollywood's monster-centric blockbusters. Furthermore, "Godzilla Minus One" pays tribute to the original 1954 "Godzilla" film while incorporating elements from Japanese cinema and storytelling, providing a unique perspective on the iconic kaiju and its impact on Japanese society and culture.

"Godzilla Minus One" has received significant praise from critics, particularly for its unique take on the Godzilla franchise and engaging storytelling. Critics have praised director Takashi Yamazaki's direction, the film's visual effects, and the cast's performances, particularly Ryunosuke Kamiki as Kōichi Shikishima. The film's combination of human drama and the spectacle of kaiju battles has been praised for offering a new perspective on the genre. Critics have also noted the film's social commentary, which adds depth and significance to the story. Overall, "Godzilla Minus One" has been hailed as a standout entry in the Godzilla franchise, appealing to both audiences and critics.

"Godzilla Minus One" had a significant impact at the box office, grossing nearly $116 million worldwide on a modest budget, making it one of the highest-grossing Japanese films of 2023 and surpassing "Shin Godzilla" as the most successful Japanese Godzilla film. The film's success can be attributed to its compelling story, exceptional visual effects, and strong performances, particularly those of lead actors Ryunosuke Kamiki, Minami Hamabe, and Yuki Yamada. As a member of the iconic Godzilla franchise, "Godzilla Minus One" not only entertains with thrilling kaiju action, but also deeply resonates with audiences through its exploration of complex themes, cementing its position as a standout entry in the series.