My Thoughts on Godzilla Minus Zero

Review Summary

The reviewer says Godzilla Minus Zero is a strong follow-up, though it doesn’t match the emotional power of Minus One. The first film focused on Koichi, whose story was compelling enough to stand on its own. Here, Koichi has less to do, while Noriko’s story—and her connection to Godzilla—takes center stage. Noda and Murakami also become more important, and the reviewer wishes they’d had even more screen time.

Spoilers

The film’s most affecting moments involve Akiko. The reviewer praises the painful farewell scene in which Koichi and Noriko leave their daughter, but jokes that the film keeps staging heartfelt family reunions in front of orphans who have lost their own parents—a pretty brutal audience for those scenes.

The biggest disappointment is the kaiju screen time. Godzilla barely appears until late in the movie, while Ghidorah gets more of the spotlight. Ghidorah’s arrival and the climactic showdown look and sound spectacular, but the fight feels too short. Ghidorah’s abrupt disappearance in an explosion also doesn’t provide the satisfying death the reviewer wanted.

The movie’s visuals, music, and booming IMAX sound are highlights. The reviewer jokes that his 32-year-old ears may be less sensitive than those of audience members complaining about the volume.

The American characters are another weak point. The reviewer calls them ridiculous and unnecessary, arguing that their plot function could have been handled over the phone—and that their screen time would have been better spent on Godzilla.

Overall, the reviewer liked the film a lot; he just doesn’t consider it a masterpiece on the level of Minus One.

People and Characters Mentioned

• Reviewer: Charlie (MoistCr1TiKaL)
• Film characters: Koichi, Noriko, Akiko, Noda, Murakami, Godzilla, and King Ghidorah