Shin Godzilla (2016)

User Review

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  TheMovieDiorama

  7 / 10

  Shin Godzilla is the harmonious blend of classic Toho and contemporaneous optimism. Another reboot in the long-running Japanese franchise that has contained actors in giant rubber costumes decimating cities and brawling with each other amidst chaotic infernos. All of those aspects have been incinerated in Anno's instalment, who substitutes typical kaiju destruction with bureaucracy and satirical politics. The result is a sublime resurgence of the titular "God incarnate". A colossal beast rises from the sea and starts destroying Japanese cities where the government must form a plan to prevent further destruction. The complexity of Japan's bureaucratic system is fully explored, with several organisations and administrations not taking ownership of the situation. The satirical nature of the narrative acts as a metaphor for recent disasters such as Fukushima and Tõhoku whilst also reflecting on Nagasaki and Hiroshima. The creature itself acts as galavanting nuclear reactor, leaving radiation in its wake. The interjectory catastrophes within the politically charged perspective surprisingly makes for a captivating watch. Suddenly the entire situation feels real, with economic struggles and urban evacuation rapidly taking place. Yet, patriotic optimism is nested deep within the story, with Japanese officials wanting the best for their country. This means relying on other nations for assistance, where any past relationships have been put aside for the greater good. Godzilla itself comes alive through a somewhat archaic animation style, accompanied by classic sound effects. With a violently visceral second act attack of Tokyo that will have you on the edge of your seat. Regrettably, the entire final act felt deflated. The excitement of the atomic rays ultimately left nothing else enthralling, with the political debates wearing thin. The lack of character attachment exhumed a slight clinical aesthetic that prevented an emotional investment towards the story and its white-collared individuals. Fear not however, as Godzilla is back and more formidable than ever.

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