What Makes Godzilla: King of the Monsters a Great Movie - An Honest Review

In the vast landscape of kaiju films, Godzilla: King of the Monsters stands out as a standout film that resonates with both fans and newcomers alike. This review delves into the elements that make this movie a delightful and memorable experience, backed by an honest assessment.

The Characters

The characters in Godzilla: King of the Monsters are well-rounded and compelling, boasting excellent performances from veteran actors. While the characters may be fairly simple in their roles, they are vividly memorable and highly appealing. This naturalism makes them shine, contributing significantly to the film's overall appeal. Notable here is the back and forth between different film series and the continuity that is maintained, which makes the characters feel more real and engaged with their storylines.

The Kaiju Characterization

The kaiju themselves are the stars of the show. In this movie, we see:

Rodan: Returning to his roots, Rodan is portrayed as a fearsome and heroic figure. After a 15-year absence in small cameos, his return to a major role is a highlight for fans. Mothra: True to her legendary status, Mothra maintains her timeless presence and charm. Godzilla: Returning to his Showa antihero form, Godzilla is a hero that fans can root for. His portrayal is a testament to his enduring legacy. Ghidorah: Restored to his original form as a planet-wrecking monster, Ghidorah is a force to be reckoned with. This well-received iteration brings back the intense possibility that has made Ghidorah a fan favorite.

The Cinematography

The cinematography in Godzilla: King of the Monsters is nothing short of breathtaking. The visuals are among the best in the kaiju genre, with the use of color and creative angles being especially noteworthy. It is safe to say that the cinematography in this film is perhaps the best in the category, surpassing the visuals in the likes of Godzilla X Mechagodzilla.

The Production Design

The production design is equally impressive, with the environments and creatures designed in a way that is functional and yet charming. Each kaiju has its unique design:

Argo and Orca: These machines are simple and not overly derivative, enhancing the film's overall aesthetic. Ghidorah: With a cool quadrupedal stance and expressive heads and wings, Ghidorah stands out as a memorable design. Rodan: Featuring a volcano motif, this design is as original as it is fitting. Mothra: The design invokes other insects, creating a fun and whimsical touch.

The Music

The soundtrack of Godzilla: King of the Monsters is a mix of new, fitting themes and classic ones by Masayoshi Ifukube. While the older themes for Rodan and Ghidorah are missed by fans, the music in the film is still one of the best since the Millennium films, particularly with the contributions of Shiro Ishikawa.

The Pacing

Godzilla: King of the Monsters maintains a relatively fast-paced narrative that keeps viewers engaged. This is achieved through regular intervals of action and a steady build-up of tension, making the film both exciting and accessible. The action in this film comes in rapid succession: Mothra's breakout, the terrorist attack, the shootout at the base, Godzilla versus Ghidorah, Ghidorah versus Rodan, and the final intense battle. The film keeps the audience on their toes without feeling overwhelming.

The Addressing of Previous Film Complaints

Godzilla: King of the Monsters successfully addresses the major complaints from its predecessor. Fans have been longing for more Serizawa, the Russell family as a substitute for the Brodys, and a more diverse and substantial cast of characters. All these returns are achieved, enhancing the overall film experience. The previous issue of poor lighting was resolved to a great extent, as the film makes better use of color and lighting, further elevating the creatures on screen.

The reviewer concludes that Godzilla: King of the Monsters is not just a film to be seen but an entertaining experience that fulfills various aspects of what a good movie should be. It provides a balance of compelling storylines, memorable characters, and thrilling action, making it an excellent entry in the Monsterverse.