Toho has done it again. Godzilla Minus One is an achievement in filmmaking that I just can’t get out of my head, This is a masterclass on how to make the perfect creature feature and a true blockbuster. Godzilla Minus one is a modernized take on the 1954 film that creates a new story that is horrifying yet so beautiful. The film follows Kamikaze pilot Koichi Shikishima who at the end of WW2 choses life and from there this film becomes a look into morality, the effects of war and the pain and trauma that was inflicted on a nation.

Director & writer Takashi Yamazaki weaves a story that focuses on the human element that monster movies have been missing for a very long time. These characters are so well written and the acting from all involved is impeccable. You care for these characters, One of the highlights is the relationship between Shikishima and Noriko played by Minami Hamabe. The main reason this film is so effective is that when Godzilla does show up the pain you feel for these characters hits you like a freight train. 

Godzilla is the most terrifying he has ever been and he is on path that is filled with anger and hatred. This might be the most menacing version of Godzilla to grace the screen. The new design is incredible, and this is especially true when the Atomic Breath is first used and the scales on his back pop out and his body prepares to fire with all its might. 

I think what is the most incredible part is the sheer size and scale of this film to have only been made on a budget of 15 million. The cgi is some of the best and most effective in recent memory. You are immersed into this world and it feels so lifelike that at times you don’t feel like you are even sitting in a theatre.

 I was introduced to Godzilla at a young age and have seen every film. I went through so many emotions watching this film and it brought back memories of the first time I saw the 1954 film and why I feel in love with this incredible story in the first place. Not only is this my favorite Godzilla film, but it is my favorite film of 2023. This film needs to be seen on the biggest screen possible and is an absolute must watch. 

10 Seths out of 10!