Latest news with #GodzillaMinusOne
Tom's Guide
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Tom's Guide
Netflix just got Guillermo del Toro's sci-fi monster movie ‘Pacific Rim' — and it's my all-time favorite summer blockbuster
When flipping through Netflix's lineup for July 2025, I spotted an old favorite I hadn't seen in ages: "Pacific Rim." I'm not the biggest sci-fi fan, and as objectively rad as I think its pitch of "giant mechs vs. kaiju" is, neither one is my usual cup of tea (case in point: I saw "Godzilla Minus One" last year, and it was my first Godzilla movie ever). With all that in mind, I didn't have high hopes when I saw "Pacific Rim" in theaters over a decade ago. But I'm a huge fan of Guillermo del Toro's work, so I figured I'd give it a shot. I'm happy to say it absolutely won me over, and ended up becoming one of my favorite summer blockbusters to date. Now, I'll be the first to admit "Pacific Rim" isn't a 'smart' movie by any means; it won't move you to tears or make you start questioning your life choices. Rather, it's exactly what a summer blockbuster should be: pure, unapologetic spectacle. It's like someone handed a 14-year-old a camera, a blank check, and free rein to bring their wildest ideas to life, and trust me, I mean that as the highest praise. As much as del Toro's love for anime comes through loud and clear, you don't need to share that passion to enjoy "Pacific Rim." It's "Independence Day" meets "Godzilla," an underdog story packed with larger-than-life battles and thrilling action that's a blast to watch unfold. Just don't think about it too hard. Now that "Pacific Rim" has found a new streaming home, I'd recommend anyone who hasn't seen it yet to add it to their watchlist. It's giant robots punching skyscraper-size monsters in the face. What more could you ask for? Here's everything you need to know about "Pacific Rim" and why you need to check out Charlie Hunnam's monster-fighting epic now that it's streaming on Netflix. "Pacific Rim" imagines an alternate reality where an interdimensional rift at the bottom of the Pacific, ominously dubbed "The Breach," has appeared, unleashing colossal monsters known as Kaiju. In response, humanity built their own towering weapons: mechanized giant robots called Jaegers. All the extra robotic firepower comes at a cost, though, and each mech needs two pilots to operate it through a neural connection known as the Drift, which lets them both shoulder the immense mental strain of piloting. Nearly a decade after the Breach opened, humanity is on the back foot against a seemingly endless stream of new monsters. With hope fading, Marshal Stacker Pentecost (Idris Elba) makes the unconventional call to bring in washed-up Jaeger pilot Raleigh Becket (Hunnam), whose brother/co-pilot was killed in a Kaiju attack several years ago, to help. Meanwhile, after securing a Kaiju brain from black market dealer Hannibal Chau (Ron Perlman), scientists Newt Geiszler (Charlie Day) and Hermann Gottlieb (Burn Gorman) make a critical discovery: The Kaiju are not just mindless beasts, but bio-engineered weapons, sent by a powerful alien race bent on conquering Earth. Armed with this knowledge, they devise a plan to shut down the Breach for good. The fate of humanity falls to Becket and his new co-pilot, the determined but inexperienced Mako Mori (Rinko Kikuchi), who has spent her life training for this moment. Together, they climb into the cockpit of Becket's refurbished Jaeger for one final stand that takes them to the heart of the threat to stop the apocalypse once and for all. If the idea of giant robots clobbering Godzilla-like monsters doesn't entice you whatsoever, I'm not confident "Pacific Rim" will convert you. But if you enjoy anime fight scenes, sci-fi world-building, or are just a sucker for over-the-top spectacle, I encourage you to give "Pacific Rim" a watch. Del Toro directs with a level of precision that'll suck you in, where every shot feels intentional, and nothing is wasted. The visuals are layered and vibrant, from the weathered, industrial Jaeger base to the shattered remains of Tokyo. Even the ocean scenes are packed with texture and movement; there's no such thing as a throwaway background here. But even with all that detail and the movie's rapid-fire pace, the action remains surprisingly easy to follow outside of a few occasional moments of chaos. "Pacific Rim" also delivers plenty of gloriously over-the-top moments that are so outrageous and fun, you can't help but smile. Del Toro and co. clearly had a blast bringing his vision to life, and that shines through, helping to smooth over the few points where things get muddled or go off the rails. "Pacific Rim's" side characters also easily steal the show, building out the world in interesting ways without sacrificing too much screen time. The bickering between Day's Newt and Gorman's Gottlieb, a self-described "kaiju fanboy" vs. a by-the-book scientist, is sharp and caustic. There's something so inherently fun about two co-workers who can't stand each other forced to team up to stop the apocalypse. Elba's Stacker and Kikuchi's Mako butt heads as pseudo-father and daughter brought together by chance in an impossible situation that demands sacrifice, similar to Ellie and Joel in "The Last of Us." And del Toro regular Ron Perlman is iconic as a sleazy black market dealer with swag levels off the chart. I could have sworn he was in the movie for more than 2 seconds, that's how much of an impression he makes. I'm far from the only one enraptured by the original "Pacific Rim. It earned over $411 million at the box office on a $190 million budget, and its success spawned a sequel, "Pacific Rim: Uprising (which is fun enough if a bit of a mess), as well as Netflix's anime series "Pacific Rim: The Black." A "Pacific Rim" live-action series is also in the works at Prime Video. "Pacific Rim" has a solid 72% critics' score on Rotten Tomatoes, and audiences rated it even higher, earning it a 77% on the Popcornmeter. The critics' consensus reads: "It may sport more style than substance, but 'Pacific Rim' is a solid modern creature feature bolstered by fantastical imagery and an irresistible sense of fun." I'm inclined to agree. "Pacific Rim" is a proudly unapologetic action film, driven by sheer spectacle and a sense of epic scale you can easily lose yourself in. The story does its job well enough, and the cast brings enough energy and charm to keep things engaging between the jaw-dropping set pieces. If you're looking for deep character arcs or profound themes, this isn't that kind of movie. That being said, if you go in with the right expectations, you might just discover one of the most entertaining popcorn blockbusters of the summer. Stream "Pacific Rim" on Netflix now.
San Francisco Chronicle
03-07-2025
- Entertainment
- San Francisco Chronicle
Godzilla Fest 2025
The Balboa Theatre's annual Godzilla Fest returns with 20 kaiju (giant monster) films, from the 1954 original to 2023's astounding Oscar-winning 'Godzilla Minus One,' over three days beginning Friday, July 18. What started as an allegory for the atomic age in the fest's first film, 'Gojira' (4 p.m. Friday), released in the United States in a re-edited dubbed version called 'Godzilla' in 1956, has gone on to address monstrous issues. Among the weighty topics Godzilla has taken on: The Cold War and the desire for world peace in 1965's 'Invasion of the Astro-Monster' (7 p.m. Friday), environmentalism (1971's 'Godzilla vs. Hedorah,' 2:30 p.m. Saturday), genetic tampering and junk science (1989's 'Godzilla vs. Biollante,' 4 p.m. Sunday), postwar and pact-traumatic stress ('Godzilla Minus One,' 6:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday). But occasionally, there's no message at all, just monsters going at it (1973's 'Godzilla vs. Megalon,' noon Saturday). Want the most bang for your buck? Try 1968's 'Destroy All Monsters' (noon Sunday), which features no less than 11 kaijus, including Godzilla, Mothra, Rodan and King Ghidorah. Sometimes Godzilla is the villain, sometimes he's the hero. Some of the films are campy, others are darkly serious. But they contain rage, arrogance, tenderness, destruction, reinvention, treachery, family, ingenuity and a desire for the greater good. In other words, the monsters are ourselves. — G. Allen Johnson
Geek Tyrant
02-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Geek Tyrant
First Look at Godzilla Battling Mechagodzilla GODZILLA MINUS ONE Themed Ride — GeekTyrant
Godzilla fans, we might have just gotten a first look at one of the most iconic adversaries in kaiju history… Mechagodzilla. The image features Godzilla battling Mechagodzilla, and this is for a Godzilla Minus One theme park attraction: Godzilla The Ride: Giant Monsters Ultimate Battle at Seibuen Amusement Park in Japan. Godzilla Minus One director Takashi Yamazaki is working on this attraction, and there's no doubt that fans are hoping this sets up a face off in the Godzilla Minus One sequel. Here's what the ride's early tease had to say: 'While there are few specifics about the content of the new attraction, the plan is for the scope and scale to surpass that of the original acclaimed theme park experience, offering fans once again an experience unlike anything they've ever witnessed featuring the King of the Monsters.' No specifics have been shared on this version of Mechagodzilla's origin story, but we know it's entirely Yamazaki's creation. And if it's anything like Minus One, we're in for something intense, grounded, and terrifying. The director himself shared his excitement about this unique Mecha debut: 'I'm thrilled to return to Godzilla's world from the passenger seat. What powerful foes will emerge? Where will this ride take us next? As a ride enthusiast myself, I can't wait for my first spin—and I'm working day and night with our team to make this the most terrifying ride in the world.' Mechagodzilla, of course, has a deep history in the franchise, starting with 1974's Godzilla vs. Mechagodzilla , where he was originally an alien weapon. Since then, the mechanical menace has taken on many forms, including the Apex Cybernetics version in Godzilla vs. Kong . There's no release date yet for the Godzilla Minus One sequel, but production is underway. Between this Mechagodzilla tease, the booming MonsterVerse content from Legendary, and Toho gearing up for its next move, the kaiju arena is about to get a lot more crowded… and a lot more metal.
Gizmodo
02-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Gizmodo
Takashi Yamazaki's ‘Godzilla' Ride Is Getting a Slick New Mechagodzilla
A few months ago, we learned that Godzilla Minus One director Takashi Yamazaki's next project with the king of all Kaiju wasn't going to be his next movie, but a new theme park ride set to open in Japan this summer. Now we have more details of what to expect… and what familiar shiny face Godzilla will throw hands with during it. Today it was confirmed that Yamazaki's ride, set to open next month at the Seibuen Amusement Park in Tokorozawa, Japan, is called Godzilla the Ride: Great Clash, and will see Godzilla face off against a completely new Mechagodzilla, designated the 'KIJU type 0‐G BREAKER‐.' Great Clash will cast ride-goers as crew members of an organization called EDGE, the Emergency Defense against Gargantuan Encounter. Stepping aboard EDGE's flagship vessel and getting aboard an aerial/amphibious drone, the roughly 15-minute splash ride will see attendees hunt down and engage Godzilla as he scraps with the new Mechagodzilla. As well as the ride experience itself, Great Clash will include a pre-show room with live actors, letting attendees see footage of Godzilla attacks, detailed schematics of EDGE's vehicles, and even a mockup of the new Mechagodzilla in its hangar waiting for deployment. The new design has some interesting parallels to both Yamazaki's Godzilla design in Minus One, as well as the design used in Legendary's Monsterverse for Mechagodzilla's appearance in Godzilla vs. Kong. The streamlined head, removing the usual pointed ears and head crest typical of Toho's Mechagodzilla designs definitely feels a little more akin to that Western design, but the overall smoothness and chunky armor plating is definitely more evocative of Mechagodzilla's Japanese designs, looking much less skeletal. It's an intriguing mix of design philosophies that you probably won't get to appreciate all that much if you're lucky enough to get on board Great Clash this summer while you're busy enjoying the ride itself. Godzilla the Ride: Great Clash will open at Seibuen Amusement Park on August 1. Want more io9 news? Check out when to expect the latest Marvel, Star Wars, and Star Trek releases, what's next for the DC Universe on film and TV, and everything you need to know about the future of Doctor Who.
Time Business News
22-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time Business News
Godzilla Minus One Blu-ray: A Deep Dive into the Home Release of Toho's Masterpiece
Introduction 'Godzilla Minus One,' Toho's 2023 cinematic masterpiece, has become a cornerstone in the kaiju genre and a global sensation. Directed by Takashi Yamazaki, this film not only revitalized the Godzilla franchise but also reintroduced the King of the Monsters in a darker, more emotionally resonant narrative. With the release of the Godzilla Minus One Blu-ray , fans now have the chance to experience this landmark film in stunning high definition from the comfort of their homes. This article provides a comprehensive analysis of the Godzilla Minus One Blu-ray release, exploring its features, historical context, technical details, collector's value, and why it's a must-have for kaiju enthusiasts and cinephiles alike. 1. Overview of 'Godzilla Minus One' 'Godzilla Minus One' is set in post-war Japan, taking place shortly after World War II. The country is devastated, both emotionally and economically, and then comes another catastrophe—Godzilla. Unlike the heroic or morally ambiguous portrayals in some modern iterations, this version of Godzilla is a terrifying force of nature, echoing the creature's original 1954 incarnation. The film's critical success stems from its humanistic storytelling, character development, political themes, and special effects. It blends emotional depth with sheer cinematic spectacle—qualities that translate remarkably well to the Blu-ray format. 2. Blu-ray Release Date and Availability The Godzilla Minus One Blu-ray was officially released in Japan on May 1, 2024, with English subtitles included, delighting international fans. In the U.S., the physical Blu-ray arrived in stores and online platforms like Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart in early June 2024. Both standard and limited collector's editions are available, with some special retailer-exclusive bonuses. Editions Available: ● Standard Blu-ray: 1080p video with DTS-HD audio, Japanese and English subtitles. ● Collector's Edition: Includes 4K Ultra HD disc, bonus features disc, art cards, steelbook packaging. ● Digital Edition: Offered via platforms like Apple TV and Vudu. 3. Technical Specifications The technical quality of the Godzilla Minus One Blu-ray is nothing short of superb. The transfer captures every detail from the cinematic release, and in some cases, the home experience even enhances appreciation for the VFX and sound design. Video Quality: ● Resolution: 1920×1080 (Blu-ray), 3840×2160 (4K UHD) ● Aspect Ratio: 2.39:1 ● HDR10 and Dolby Vision support (4K UHD) Audio: ● Japanese: DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 ● English: Dolby Digital 5.1 (subtitled) ● Immersive surround sound perfectly captures monster roars and destruction sequences The colors are crisp, contrast is excellent, and dark scenes are handled with finesse—a critical element for a film that often relies on shadows and atmosphere. 4. Bonus Features Breakdown One of the major draws of the Godzilla Minus One Blu-ray is the treasure trove of special features included, especially in the deluxe editions. These features offer insight into the making of the film and the vision behind the monster. Key Bonus Features: ● Director's Commentary: Takashi Yamazaki shares his thoughts on creative choices, VFX challenges, and thematic inspirations. ● Behind-the-Scenes Documentary: A 45-minute deep dive into the film's production, including special effects, miniatures, and on-set interviews. ● Monster Design Evolution: A segment exploring the evolution of Godzilla's design and how it pays tribute to the original 1954 creature. ● Deleted Scenes and Alternate Takes ● Storyboard Comparisons ● Cast Interviews Fans and aspiring filmmakers alike will find immense value in these extras. 5. Packaging and Physical Design Aesthetics matter to collectors, and Toho has gone all out with the Godzilla Minus One Blu-ray . The steelbook editions are embossed with Godzilla's monstrous silhouette, rendered in black-and-white to echo the original film's tone. Inside, fans will find: ● An exclusive fold-out poster ● Character cards featuring the main cast ● A booklet of behind-the-scenes concept art For kaiju collectors, this packaging makes the Blu-ray more than just a movie—it's a display-worthy centerpiece. 6. Why It Stands Out Among Godzilla Films The Godzilla franchise spans over 35 films, but Godzilla Minus One stands out due to its: ● Human-centric narrative: The film centers around Koichi Shikishima, a kamikaze pilot struggling with guilt, providing emotional weight rarely seen in monster movies. ● Realistic setting: Post-WWII Japan is shown with haunting authenticity. ● Return to horror roots: Godzilla is terrifying, ruthless, and symbolic. ● Modern yet practical VFX: A mix of CGI and practical effects creates visceral realism. All of this is perfectly preserved in the Blu-ray release, which has become a new benchmark for kaiju home video formats. 7. Critical Reception and Awards Upon its initial release, 'Godzilla Minus One' received widespread acclaim and was even nominated for—and won—an Academy Award for Best Visual Effects. The Blu-ray release capitalizes on that acclaim by delivering a pristine home viewing experience. Rotten Tomatoes Score: 98% IMDB Rating: 8.5/10 Metacritic: 84/100 Reviewers universally praised the Blu-ray's audio-visual fidelity and its thoughtful bonus content. 8. Audience Reactions Fans have lauded the Blu-ray on forums and social media, especially for: ● Its emotional storytelling ● Authentic Japanese audio with clear English subtitles ● The incredible visual clarity of Godzilla's destruction scenes ● The deeply immersive surround sound experience Quoting a Reddit user from r/GODZILLA: 'The Blu-ray made me cry all over again. That hospital scene in HD? Devastating. I'm so glad I bought the steelbook.' 9. Comparison to Other Godzilla Blu-rays The Godzilla Minus One Blu-ray stands above other entries in the franchise's home releases. Compared to the 2016's 'Shin Godzilla' or the Legendary Pictures' MonsterVerse films like 'Godzilla: King of the Monsters,' this version offers: ● A more grounded, personal story ● Better preservation of Japanese cinematic aesthetics ● Less reliance on over-the-top CGI ● A more extensive collection of bonus content 10. A Must-Have for Collectors For collectors, the Godzilla Minus One Blu-ray is essential. Whether you're a casual fan, a die-hard kaiju aficionado, or a film historian, this release brings value: ● Display-worthy design ● Rare insights into Toho Studios' production ● Award-winning film preservation ● Limited edition variants that will likely increase in value Many fans are already seeing price hikes on secondary markets for exclusive editions, especially those bundled with theatrical merchandise. 11. Future of Godzilla on Blu-ray With the success of 'Godzilla Minus One,' fans can expect more premium home releases from Toho. There's already buzz around: ● A potential director's cut ● A Godzilla retrospective collection featuring all eras (Showa, Heisei, Millennium, Reiwa) ● Expanded Godzilla Minus One universe material like documentaries or spin-offs Streaming may dominate modern media consumption, but Blu-ray remains the gold standard for collectors and purists. Conclusion The Godzilla Minus One Blu-ray is more than just a home release—it's a cinematic event reborn in high definition. With its technical excellence, rich bonus content, and emotional storytelling, it captures everything that made the original theatrical release so memorable. For fans of monster movies, Japanese cinema, or just high-quality physical media, this Blu-ray is a must-own. Whether you're revisiting the destruction of Ginza or experiencing Koichi's journey for the first time, this release ensures that the legacy of 'Godzilla Minus One' will echo for generations. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
