Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire delivers over-the-top, campy action thrills which are bolstered by stunning visuals. It is an extremely fun, albeit slightly plot-confused film, which has to be seen to be believed. With the majority of the film taking place in the mysterious, gorgeously rendered Hollow Earth, the plot is at once entirely empty and overly complex. With bogus scientific jargon, vague references to previous films in the franchise, and some shoehorned lore, the film should be a disaster.
However, the detailed storyline is almost secondary to both the visuals and to the less-defined but entirely more entertaining premise of ‘Titans’ (giant monsters) warring and teaming up with each other, which both result in a thoroughly entertaining watch. This film will win no Oscars for acting, although the Titans are surprisingly emotive and sympathetic, however it’s not trying to win any and that’s part of its charm. Godzilla x Kong knows exactly what it is, and what its audience wants – epic fight scenes, buildings exploding, strange creatures pulverising each other with icy blasts – and it delivers it with both fists, at once gleefully and surprising sincerely.
There is a definite sense of fun and a knowledge of how ridiculous the film is, but the dialogue and action is written and delivered with intensity and fervor which only adds to what a fun watch the film is. The best moments feature the Titans, whether it’s Godzilla curled up and sleeping in the Colosseum in Rome or the final epic battle where the titular Titans finally team up to beat rival creatures into submission. The presence of other Titans including Shima and Tiamat is welcome, adding a new dimension and challenge to the familiar characters we’ve come across in previous films.
Unsurprisingly, the big fight scenes are the highlights of the film and are the most memorable and satisfying moments. They are used sparingly and always leave the audience wanting more carnage.
The characterisation of King Kong as somewhat of an aging action hero family man is surprising but not unwelcome. He takes on an almost fatherly role for a smaller ape and his engagements with humans are controlled and civil. At one point he calmly lies down to have a tooth pulled then practically looks at the camera and gives a thumbs up. It’s surprisingly effective and means the audience build up affection for the giant ape which pays off throughout the film.
One of the main downfalls of this film is the human storyline and interactions. Although arguably important to prop up and give the monsters slapping each other context, they often grind the action to a halt. Dan Stevens‘ Trapper and Brian Tyree Henry‘s Bernie Hay are both great characters who add humour to the duller scenes; however even their charisma can’t keep the momentum up and there is a sense of these scenes just filling time until the next fantastical sequence.
While it doesn’t come close to the cinematic brilliance of Godzilla Minus One which was released in 2023, this is a perfect cinema film and is worth a watch for the incredulity, laughs and impressive visuals.
In cinemas nationwide now