The 2023 Japanese kaiju film Godzilla Minus One has taken the world by storm with its gripping story, well-developed characters, and awe-inspiring monster action. Set in post-war Japan, the film follows the emergence of Godzilla and the horrific destruction left in the wake of the atomic-powered creature. For fans craving more movies that capture a similar tone and spirit, here are 18 films to add to your watchlist.
Godzilla (1954)
The one that started it all. Ishirō Honda’s original Godzilla film is a somber allegory for the devastation of nuclear weapons, much like Godzilla Minus One. With groundbreaking special effects for its time and an emotionally resonant story, this classic kaiju film is essential viewing.
Shin Godzilla (2016)
Hideaki Anno and Shinji Higuchi’s Shin Godzilla is a modern reimagining of the Godzilla story that shares thematic similarities with Godzilla Minus One. The film focuses on the bureaucratic response to Godzilla’s appearance and the devastating impact on Japan, making it a thought-provoking companion piece.
The Host (2006)
Bong Joon-ho’s The Host is a South Korean monster movie that uses its creature as an allegory for military carelessness, drawing parallels to Godzilla Minus One. With a mix of horror, humor, and social commentary, The Host is a unique entry in the monster movie genre.
Cloverfield (2008)
Matt Reeves’ found-footage monster movie Cloverfield shares the sense of helplessness and cosmic horror found in Godzilla Minus One. The film’s intimate, ground-level perspective makes the monster’s rampage all the more terrifying.
Kong: Skull Island (2017)
While Kong: Skull Island trades a city-destroying monster for a jungle adventure, it shares a period setting and thematic elements with Godzilla Minus One. The film explores the hubris of man in the face of nature’s most fearsome creatures.
Gamera: Guardian of the Universe (1995)
Gamera: Guardian of the Universe is an underrated kaiju film that successfully rebooted the Gamera series. With impressive special effects and an engaging story, this film is a must-watch for fans of the genre.
Pacific Rim (2013)
Guillermo del Toro’s Pacific Rim is a love letter to kaiju movies, pitting giant robots against equally massive monsters. While more action-oriented than Godzilla Minus One, the film’s epic scale and reverence for the genre make it a thrilling watch.
Colossal (2016)
Colossal takes a unique approach to the kaiju genre, using a giant monster as a metaphor for one woman’s personal struggles. Anchored by a stellar performance from Anne Hathaway, this film offers a fresh perspective on the monster movie formula.
Train to Busan (2016)
This South Korean zombie thriller may not feature a giant monster, but it shares Godzilla Minus One‘s themes of human resilience in the face of an unstoppable threat. Train to Busan‘s claustrophobic setting and emotional core make it a standout in the zombie genre.
Godzilla (2014)
Gareth Edwards’ American reboot of Godzilla pays homage to the original while updating the story for a new generation. With stunning visuals and a talented cast, including Bryan Cranston and Ken Watanabe, this film breathed new life into the iconic monster.
Godzilla: King of the Monsters (2019)
The sequel to the 2014 Godzilla film ups the ante with even more monster mayhem, as Godzilla faces off against classic kaiju like Mothra, Rodan, and King Ghidorah. While not as thematically rich as Godzilla Minus One, this film delivers on sheer spectacle.
Godzilla vs. Kong (2021)
The culmination of Legendary’s MonsterVerse, Godzilla vs. Kong pits the two titular titans against each other in a battle for supremacy. With jaw-dropping fight scenes and a surprising amount of heart, this film is a must-see for kaiju enthusiasts.
The Shape of Water (2017)
Guillermo del Toro’s Oscar-winning fantasy romance may not feature a city-destroying monster, but its central creature shares DNA with classic kaiju. The Shape of Water‘s emphasis on its characters and their relationships makes it a compelling companion to Godzilla Minus One.
Jurassic Park (1993)
While Jurassic Park‘s dinosaurs are based on real creatures, the film shares thematic similarities with Godzilla Minus One. Both movies explore the consequences of man playing god and the awe-inspiring power of nature.
The Abyss (1989)
James Cameron’s underwater sci-fi thriller The Abyss may not feature a giant monster, but its themes of humanity’s insignificance in the face of a greater power resonate with Godzilla Minus One. The film’s groundbreaking special effects and claustrophobic setting make it a tense and thought-provoking watch.
War of the Worlds (2005)
Steven Spielberg’s adaptation of the classic H.G. Wells novel shares Godzilla Minus One‘s bleak tone and sense of helplessness in the face of an unstoppable force. With harrowing set pieces and a strong performance from Tom Cruise, War of the Worlds is a gripping alien invasion story.
Underwater (2020)
This deep-sea monster movie follows a group of researchers as they fight for survival against an ancient evil awakened by drilling. Underwater‘s themes of cosmic horror and human insignificance make it a fitting companion to Godzilla Minus One.
A Quiet Place (2018)
John Krasinski’s post-apocalyptic horror film A Quiet Place may not have a giant monster, but its premise of a family struggling to survive in a world overrun by deadly creatures shares DNA with Godzilla Minus One. The film’s emphasis on character development and tense atmosphere make it a standout in the genre.
Godzilla Minus One has reignited interest in kaiju movies and reminded audiences of the power of the genre to tell emotionally resonant stories. These 18 films offer a diverse range of experiences, from classic monster movies to unique spins on the formula, ensuring that fans of Godzilla Minus One will have plenty to enjoy.
Whether you’re in the mood for more city-destroying action, thought-provoking allegories, or intimate character studies, these movies showcase the versatility and enduring appeal of the kaiju genre. So grab some popcorn, dim the lights, and prepare to be awed by the majesty and terror of these cinematic behemoths.
