Surprises are always delightful, especially for cinema fans. This was certainly the case with “Godzilla Minus One,” the 2023 Japanese epic that Netflix released yesterday without any prior promotion or notification. In less than 24 hours, it became the most-watched movie in the United States.
Anyone who followed the film festivals and awards last year knows that this Asian production made waves everywhere it went. Notably, it won the Oscar for Best Visual Effects, triumphing over heavyweights like “Mission: Impossible” and “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3.”
The title’s depiction of post-war Japan grappling with the aftermath of destruction, combined with its deeply human character development, earned high praise from both critics and audiences.
‘Godzilla Minus One’ becomes the No. 1 movie on Netflix in just one day
Just when it seemed, after 36 installments, that Godzilla had no room left for innovation, Toho Studios and Robot Communications revived the iconic monster from the ashes. Thus, It’s no surprise to see “Godzilla Minus One” ranking #1 on Netflix in the United States.
The film has quickly surpassed “Colors of Evil: Red,” which was shaping up to be the standout title of the month. It also overtook “Atlas,” one of Jennifer Lopez’s most-viewed performances on streaming.
Set in a Japan already devastated by war, the story introduces a new crisis in the form of a giant monster. However, the film is not solely about the creature’s destruction. Shikishima, the Kamikaze pilot tasked with killing Godzilla, emerges as one of the most complex characters to hit the big screen last year, now showcasing his humanity on the small screen.
The cast is filled with prominent Japanese stars, including Ryunosuke Kamiki, Minami Hamabe, Yuki Yamada, and Munetaka Aoki, who all deliver iconic performances.
Not only was “Godzilla Minus One” highly praised by critics and audiences alike, but it also achieved remarkable box office success. With an initial budget of $10 million, the film grossed $115 million worldwide.
