“Godzilla Minus One” is a film that delves into the origins of the iconic giant radioactive kaiju. Directed by Takashi Yamakazi, the movie is set at the end of World War II, shortly after the US nuclear bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. The story follows a kamikaze pilot named Kōichi Shikishima, played by Ryunosuke Kamiki, who chooses to land on Odo Island instead of carrying out a suicide mission. As a result, he becomes one of the few survivors of a Godzilla attack on the island.
The film is now available for streaming on Netflix worldwide, with the exception of Japan and France. Additionally, viewers have the option to purchase digital copies for $14.99 or rent them for $5.99. The movie is available in both color and black and white formats on platforms like Apple TV, Amazon, and Google Play.
Upon its theatrical release in December, “Godzilla Minus One” received positive reviews from critics. The film’s exploration of Godzilla’s origins and its post-World War II setting provided a fresh perspective on the iconic monster. Ryunosuke Kamiki’s portrayal of Kōichi Shikishima was praised for its depth and emotional complexity, adding layers to the character’s arc.
While “Godzilla Minus One” offers an intriguing premise and strong performances, some critics have pointed out certain flaws in the film. The pacing of the story, particularly in the first act, was criticized for being slow and meandering. Additionally, the film’s visual effects, while impressive in some sequences, were deemed inconsistent and lacking in certain scenes.
“Godzilla Minus One” presents an interesting take on the origins of Godzilla and explores the human impact of the monster’s appearance. While the film has received positive reviews overall, there are areas where it falls short in terms of pacing and visual effects. Despite these criticisms, “Godzilla Minus One” remains a compelling watch for fans of the kaiju genre and offers a unique perspective on a familiar story.