1 of 1 Scene from the feature film “Godzilla Minus One” Photo: Disclosure Scene from the feature film “Godzilla Minus One” Photo: Disclosure
After breaking box office records in the United States, Godzilla Minus One arrives in Brazil this Thursday (14) as one of the best films ever produced in the Japanese film franchise. The film, directed by Takashi Yamazaki, begins right at the end of World War II and immediately presents the scariest version of the monster.
Unlike recently released American films or even Roland Emmerich's 1998 feature, Godzilla Minus One is much scarier and returns to the origins of the monster created by Tomoyuki Tanaka.
The film focuses much more on the people and the overall drama of a country devastated by war and two atomic bombs. And in the midst of this scenario, the monster appears to cause even more destruction, which is seen through the eyes of the characters, bringing with it even more fear and tension.
Koichi Shikishima, a kamikaze squadron pilot, is tormented and judged by others for abandoning his role and firing a plane at enemy forces. He is one of the first to discover the Kaiju (a term the Japanese use to describe giant creatures), which leaves a trail of destruction wherever it goes.
The Japanese army tries in vain to prevent Godzilla from reaching Tokyo with weapons and bombs. Meanwhile, a former soldier comes up with a plan to sink the monster into the sea.
With impressive special effects, detailed photography and an excellent cast, the film captivates the viewer for two hours. The fact that the story is told entirely in Japanese also gives the production a special charm.
In the USA, “Godzilla Minus One” reached first place at the box office. It is the first nonEnglish language film to reach the top in 19 years. The last film to achieve this goal was 2004's “Hero,” starring Jet Li.
In wartorn Japan, “Godzilla Minus One” sends the message that even where there is no hope, the coming together of people willing to fight for a successful future can save a country.
- Where: Cinemark, Cinépolis, Kinoplex and UCI networks
- When: From this Thursday (14)