Summary– Since 1954, fans have loved Godzilla films, with contemporary blockbusters like Godzilla Minus One (2023) and classics like Godzilla (1954) gaining widespread acclaim. These top choices highlight the franchise’s enduring appeal after 70 years, from emotional depth to exhilarating monster battles.
Fans have shown love and adoration to the Godzilla movies since its first premiere in 1954. With whopping 99% rotten tomatoes, it still rules many fans’ hearts till date. Well, even though all the movies are loved wholeheartedly, there are top 5 of all time. Let us dive into the list of most loved and the ones which are widely popular among critics and fans.
5. Mothra vs. Godzilla (1964)
This film was released in April,1964. The plot revolves around a giant egg washing over the shore and scientists arriving to study the egg. Godzilla arrives shortly after and later combats the genetically modified moth named Mothra. Japan falls yet again under a brawl between two monsters. Each with their disastrous capabilities. The theme of the movie also consists of greed as the eggs of Mothra are not being returned, further fueling the anger. We as a viewer can see a subtle symbolism in Mothra’s character with reference to Japan’s situation during WWII, which is very meaningful in its own way.
4. Godzilla Minus One (2023)
Released in the year of 2023, even though it is still kind of fresh among the godzilla movies franchise, this stands on the 4th of our list. In the aftermath of WWII, Japan was completely defeated. When our protagonist Koichi returns to his hometown Tokyo, which has been devastatingly ruined. He is filled with guilt for running away from a Kamikaze raid. The country sees its next big difficulty when Godzilla arrives. The lead actors of the film have also done a tremendous work in portraying the era’s emotions and lifestyle. This style of projection takes the fans back in time and lets them live there through the screen.
3. Godzilla vs. Destoroyah (1995)
Next on the list holding rank 3 is the finale of the second series of Godzilla, our beloved Godzilla is in trouble this time. His heart is on the way to having a nuclear meltdown, not only is this bad news itself but this poses a danger to the earth as well. On the other hand, a group of mutated, destoroyah, appears from the sea. This situation drives Japan’s defence to take quick action and eliminate both the perils. The emotional angle yet fulfilling actions in the story takes the viewers into an emotional journey with its classic plot and a tragic ending.
2. Shin Godzilla (2016)
The second on the list and almost loved by all movie watchers. Shin Godzilla from godzilla movies holds a special place, sustaining the curiosity throughout the movie. The plot starts in Tokyo Bay where a sudden incident occurs, the people are in a dilemma. A ginormous being comes out of the sea, causing a big threat to the people of Japan. The defence drops all the weapons on Godzilla which does not do much instead what it does is give him more power along the way. The government official must find a way or another to stop the creature from destroying everything. Its power is increasing rapidly and the danger to the people keeps on rising.
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1. Godzilla (1954)
Number 1 still remains the OG Godzilla 1954 itself. Of all the movies in godzilla movies franchise, this one is still the epic classical masterpiece. Godzilla emerges from the ocean when nuclear underwater testing is being done. The spawning of a beast which is a result of nuclear tests itself tells us how powerful the creature might be. Godzilla’s arrival causes destruction and havoc to the boats and islands before finally attacking Tokyo. The Japanese media is never a disappointment when it comes to horror movies and in this movie, even for that era, it is way advanced and filled with thrilling scenes.
Final Thoughts
Nearing 70 years, with different plots and same energy, godzilla movies are still one of the very much loved series among the fans. It does not literally feel like the introduction to this masterpiece was decades ago. Each time you watch any of these movies you are left with the feeling of needing more.
Wrapping up our list, all the movies here show just how versatile a fantasy world could be. From the introduction of original Godzilla 1954 to the newest Godzilla Minus One (2023) the storyline is just as fabulous as the era goes on. The emotional turmoil of Godzilla vs. Destoroyah (1995) or be it action packed Shin Godzilla (2016) it takes you to a rollercoaster of various emotions at the same time. You can pick anyone out of this list or can just go with Mothra vs. Godzilla (1964), each movie has its own unique thrill to it and would not leave you disappointed.
Written by Kenbi Riba
