"Godzilla Minus One" (2023) is a Japanese kaiju film directed by Takashi Yamazaki and produced by Toho.
The 37th film in the Godzilla franchise and the fifth in the Reiwa era, it stars Ryunosuke Kamiki, Minami Hamabe, Yuki Yamada, and Munetaka Aoki. Set post-World War II, the film depicts a devastated Japan facing a new crisis as Godzilla emerges, adding to the nation's turmoil.
The story focuses on the struggles of ordinary Japanese citizens trying to rebuild their lives amid the chaos caused by Godzilla. The protagonists' journey of survival and unity is highlighted, emphasizing the human impact of the disaster. Their interactions and development provide emotional depth to the intense action sequences.
Director Takashi Yamazaki combines practical effects with advanced CGI to create a visually stunning portrayal of Godzilla, maintaining its traditional essence while updating it for modern audiences. His direction emphasizes the lasting impact of war, human resilience, and the consequences of unchecked destruction.
"Godzilla Minus One" premiered in Japan on November 3, 2023, coinciding with the anniversary of the original 1954 "Godzilla" film. It has been praised for its visual effects, storytelling, and fresh take on the Godzilla mythos, balancing action with emotional depth and character-driven narratives.