GODZILLA: KING OF THE MONSTERS (2019)
http://https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QFxN2oDKk0E[/video]
Just returned from the theatre, and I am happy to report they finally got it right!!!
Not as dour and dark (and dare I say, boring at times?) as the 2014 movie or as over the top video gamey comedic as KONG, but a nice balance between the two. While the sci-fi fantastical element has significantly increased over the last two flicks, the movie plays it mostly straight and dramatic. In many ways, the tone is very reminiscent of the original Independence Day.
The monsters are upfront and centre stage, and they are the best part of the movie, which is as it should be. But for those critics you have been completely dismissing the human component of the movie as "boring", I thought the filmmakers did a decent enough job creating some thinly "developed" characters... lol. It is smartly casted with really good actors who are able to heavy lift and elevate the material into something engaging and entertaining. Plus deliver exposition. Lots and lots of exposition. Again, better than the 2014 flick or Kong.
It is very formulaic. But in a good way. It gives the audience, particularly, Godzilla fans, what they want -- epic monster battles!!! It is not trying to re-invent the wheel. It is just enjoyable escapism.
It is interesting what I am willing to accept in this type of movie and where I draw the line with my suspension of disbelief. I can buy giant monsters duking it out for the supremacy of the planet. I can buy that apparently MONARCH must have a budget in the multi-Bazillions of dollars based on their almost hundred different secret James Bond style outposts and private army. But when a character reveals their masterplan with a magically ready power point presentation, I said that is preposterous!!! ha ha ha!
I am not sure if it is my theatre and it is arcane projection system, or if the movie underwent a colour change, but the movie did not seem as colourful or artful as teased in the multiple trailers. I am very interested in what others thought of this?
I think the producers did an excellent job in updating the legend and paying homage to the original material. I love how they even worked in the classic Twins angle that is so important to the Mother mythos. But the use of the original Godzilla theme has to be the best part of the movie!!! Wow! Totally gave me the Feels!
In the end cast credits, they list Godzilla, Mothra and Rodan all as playing themselves. Cute.
Is it the best summer movie out there? Doubtful. But for a Big G, this was pretty damn good. It left me wanting more and excited for the next entry. Bring on the Kong!
Long Live the King!
