Commentary: ‘Godzilla X Kong’ Vs. ‘Godzilla Minus One’
by Frank Martin
Godzilla is a character who has moved beyond the screen and become a pop culture phenomenon. Even though he originated in Japan, he has evolved into a completely different force across the ocean in America. This is highlighted by the fact that two Godzilla movies premiered back-to-back in both countries. However, they are completely different in tone and scope. The difference between the Monsterverse and the Toho Godzilla films is a matter of genre. Even though they both feature gigantic monsters, one can be described as a science fiction action film while the other is a drama exemplifying everything classic about Kaiju cinema.
Godzilla Minus One takes place in the direct aftermath of World War II. With the country ravaged by war, Japan is barely able to keep itself together as it is attacked by a growing monster. The film’s main character, played by Ryunosuke Kamiki, is a disgraced soldier who forms a deep hatred of Godzilla and manages to deliver a killing blow despite facing enormous odds. In contrast, Godzilla X Kong: The New Empire is a sequel to the rest of the Monsterverse and has the two Titans team up to face a third threat from Hollow Earth.
Godzilla X Kong is all about spectacle. It revels in the fighting action of these monsters. The human side of the story is largely irrelevant. Godzilla Minus One couldn’t be more different. The film has deep themes about the ravages of war and survival. These messages are delivered through a compelling plot and characterization. There’s no other monster besides Godzilla, so there is no fighting. Even Godzilla himself isn’t as mobile as his American counterpart. Instead, the film acts much more like a disaster movie as it focuses on the human toll of destruction and devastation whenever Godzilla attacks. It’s easy to say that Godzilla X Kong is more fun because it moves quicker and has a lot more action, but Godzilla Minus One is a much more thought-provoking film. So it’s very interesting to see two films that feature the same gigantic monster being executed in two completely different ways.
Godzilla Minus One is now streaming on Netflix. Godzilla X Kong: The New Empire is now streaming on Max.
