Godzilla 3D review (12A)
The hype surrounding Godzilla’s latest stampede into cinemas has been huge – and I’m pleased to say that it delivers…big time.
Forget what you think you known about the King Kaiju, there’s no cheesy nonsense to be found here.
Gareth Edwards’ action-packed epic comfortably stands up to the likes of Jaws and Jurassic Park when it comes to this hugely popular genre – and is easily one of my favourite films of the past few years.
Those of you that worship the cult 1954 original will immediately notice the homage Edwards pays to it, while also putting a fresh take on the gigantic Godzilla, who is bigger and more magnificent than ever before.
One of the film’s greatest strengths is its pacing. Indeed, you’ll not actually clap eyes on the beastly behemoth for quite some time, with suitable teasers offered before the grand arrival.
Before then, the film is in safe hands with the excellent Bryan Cranston (Breaking Bad’s Walter White). Perhaps my favourite actor right now, Cranston shines as tragic Joe Brody.
He’s central during a catastrophic incident at a nuclear power plant in the early stages of the film – and shares a truly gut-wrenching scene with co-star Juliette Binoche that’ll live long in the memory.
Ken Watanabe (Batman Begins) is also superb as rueful Dr Ichiro Serizawa and acts as the films conscience.
Sadly Joe’s son Ford (Aaron Taylor-Johnson) doesn’t quite reach those heights as the film’s mainstay, while his on-screen wife Elle (Elizabeth Olsen) is a little underused. Their story felt a little under-explored and I was left wanting more screen time with Cranston.
But let’s be honest, Godzilla itself is the main event.
The destruction caused to three different venues is both catastrophic and impressive in equal measure, while the big fight scenes – especially the final one – are absolutely breathtaking.
It’s hard to say too much more without spoiling, but if 1998’s more light-hearted Godzilla has turned you off the franchise, it’s probably time to bury the hatchet and strap in for the ride.
Rating: 4.5/5
Watched at West End Cinema, Boston
