Netflix has once again refreshed its top 10 in the United States, and this week, a science fiction classic has become a trend, claiming the fifth spot among the most-watched movies. It is Pacific Rim, directed by Guillermo del Toro.
The filmmaker, known for his distinctive approach to directing fantasy films, brings his unique visual and narrative style to the film, which stands out for its impressive visual effects, creature design and spectacular action sequences.
Undoubtedly, the title has gained popularity for its homage to the mecha (giant robots) and kaiju (giant monsters) genres prevalent in Japanese culture, providing fans with an epic experience of science fiction and suspense.
Pacific Rim is the fifth most watched movie on Netflix US
Pacific Rim is a science fiction film directed by Guillermo del Toro, released in 2013, and has quickly become a classic of the genre. Now, the title has returned to the Top 10 in the United States, ranking as the fifth most-watched on Netflix, according to Flix Patrol.
The specialized metrics site confirmed that the drama has managed to surpass other popular productions, such as Fury with Brad Pitt, the original documentary from the service The Greatest Night in Pop, and American Assassin with Dylan O’Brien and Michael Keaton.
The plot is set in the near future where Earth is under attack by giant monsters called Kaiju, emerging from a dimensional portal at the bottom of the Pacific Ocean. To combat this threat, humanity builds enormous humanoid robots called Jaegers.
These Jaegers are operated by human pilots who synchronize mentally through a connection called “Drift”. The story focuses on the former Jaeger pilot, Raleigh Becket, and his new partner, Mako Mori, as they try to save the world from the growing number of Kaiju.
Charlie Hunnam is the one who brings the main character Raleigh Becket to life, while Idris Elba accompanies him as Stacker Pentecost. These two were joined by other prominent stars who played important roles in the plot, such as Diego Klattenhoff, Burn Gorman, Rinko Kikuchi and Charlie Day.
What was special about Pacific Rim?
Established as a classic, Pacific Rim is known for several peculiar features that make it unique in the science fiction and action genre. Its style, the themes it covers, the composition of each character, and the effects are just a few of them. Here, check out what has made the story and the title special:
- Jaegers and Kaiju: The central premise involves the battle between gigantic humanoid robots called Jaegers and colossal monsters called Kaiju. This combination of mechas and kaiju pays homage to Japanese genres of giant robots and monsters, with the film paying tribute to classics like “Godzilla” and “Mazinger Z”.
- Neural Connection (Drift): To operate the Jaegers, a neural connection called “Drift” is used, synchronizing the minds of two pilots. This allows a deep connection between them, sharing memories and emotions. This neural connection adds a unique emotional layer to the narrative and interactions between characters.
- International Approach: Pacific Rim stands out for its international approach to the fight against the Kaiju. Jaegers come from different countries, and global collaboration is essential for humanity’s survival. This adds cultural diversity and unique perspectives to the cast and plot.
- Creature Design: Guillermo del Toro is known for his skill in creature design, reflected in the variety and detail of the Kaiju in the film. Each monster has unique characteristics and imposing scales, contributing to the visual spectacle of the movie.
- Guillermo del Toro’s Visual Style: Guillermo del Toro’s distinctive visual style is manifested through his attention to detail in creating the Jaegers, the Kaiju, and the world in which the story unfolds. Fans appreciate his ability to blend fantastical elements with emotionally resonant storytelling.
- Emphasis on Epic and Action: The film embraces an epic and spectacular tone, especially in the action sequences between the Jaegers and the Kaiju. The massive scale of the battles and the choreography of the fights contribute to an exhilarating cinematic experience.
- Homage to Japanese Giant Monsters: Pacific Rim is, in many ways, a homage to Japanese culture of giant monsters. From the names to the aesthetics of the creatures, the film celebrates and reinvents the Japanese tokusatsu genre in a Hollywood production.
