Godzilla Minus One: The Japanese film that's 2023's best action-blockbuster

Godzilla Minus One, a Japanese monster film, is currently captivating audiences in the United States. Garnering impressive reviews and box office numbers, the film was reportedly produced on a budget of just $15 million. This success story may serve as a wake-up call for Hollywood. Godzilla, the iconic behemoth that has been a cornerstone of cinema for nearly seven decades, has been the centerpiece of countless spinoffs, wreaking havoc on cities worldwide. The latest installment, Godzilla Minus One, is being hailed as one of the best in the franchise, achieving both critical acclaim and box office success. The film's modest budget, straightforward plot, and complex, relatable protagonist have contributed to its success, particularly at a time when Hollywood's extravagant superhero franchises are struggling.

The film was written, directed, and visually designed by renowned Japanese director Takashi Yamazaki. Godzilla Minus One was released in the United States on December 1, earning $11 million during its opening weekend. While this may not seem like blockbuster numbers, it's a significant achievement for a subtitled film. Exhibitor Relations, a firm that tracks box office earnings, praised the film's performance on X (formerly Twitter), stating that Godzilla Minus One delivered a powerful box office punch. The film has already recouped more than double its budget, earning $23 million in Japan alone, with its UK and Ireland release scheduled for December 15.

Godzilla Minus One offers a compelling blend of action and character development. Few monster films or action blockbusters have received such high praise, with a score of 96% from critics and 98% from audiences on Rotten Tomatoes. The Daily Beast commended the film for its balance of human and titan-sized concerns, describing it as everything fans could hope for. The narrative begins at the end of World War Two, when kamikaze pilot Kōichi Shikishima (portrayed by Ryunosuke Kamiki) refuses to commit suicide upon realizing that Japan is on the brink of defeat. Instead, he lands his plane on an island where aircraft are repaired. This decision makes Kōichi a sympathetic character to modern audiences, but he views himself as a coward. When Godzilla attacks the island and Kōichi freezes instead of launching a missile at the monster, nearly everyone else on the island perishes. This event leaves Kōichi burdened with guilt, a feeling that intensifies when Godzilla later attacks mainland Japan.