Since its first appearance in 1954, Godzilla has become a global cultural icon, symbolizing both nuclear devastation and the fight for survival. With more than 30 films under his belt, the King of the Monsters has managed to captivate generations of viewers, consolidating himself as one of the most recognizable creatures in the history of cinema. Seventy years after his first appearance, his impact is reflected not only in the film industry, but also in pop culture, influencing everything from comics to video games and television series.
The monster cinematic universe, known as the Monsterversecreated by Legendary Pictureshas revitalized the mythology of godzilla for modern audiences. Beginning with godzilla (2014) by Gareth Edwardshe Monsterverse has expanded its reach to include other iconic titans, such as king kongthrough a series of interconnected films. This franchise has not only brought back these legendary creatures, but has also introduced new stories and characters, establishing a cohesive and exciting universe that has captured the imagination of fans around the world.
Taking advantage of that Godzilla and Kong: A New Empire will be incorporated into the catalog of Max next July 4th, today we review the productions of the Monsterverse available on the streaming platform.
Directed by Gareth Edwards, godzilla marked the beginning of Monsterverse of Legendary. Unlike the American version of Roland Emmerich 1998, the film featured a dark and realistic approach, portraying godzilla as a force of nature that must restore balance after other giant creatures known as MUTOs (an acronym that stands for ‘Massive Unidentified Terrestrial Organism’) threaten humanity.
The film was particularly appreciated for its visual effects, which captured the magnitude and power of godzilla. In turn, it featured a cast of big stars headed by Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Ken Watanabe, Elizabeth Olsen, Juliette Binoche, Sally Hawkins and Bryan Cranston.
After the commercial success that it represented Godzilla, Legendary Pictures went one step further in building his Monsterverse with Kong: Skull Island (2017). This production, which was directed by Jordan Vogt-Robertsis set in 1973 and follows a team of explorers who discover a mysterious island inhabited by giant monsters, with kong as their king.
The star cast includes Tom Hiddleston, Brie Larson and Samuel L. JacksonThe film stands out for its vibrant photography and action sequences, establishing Kong as another central figure in the Monsterverse.
With Michael Dougherty of Krampus at the address, Godzilla II: King of the Monsters (2019), takes the action to a new level by introducing other iconic monsters from Tohoas Mothra, Rodan and the arch enemy of godzilla, King Ghidorah.
This third film follows the agency Monarch as he faces a global cataclysm triggered by the awakening of these titans. With intense battles and spectacular visual effects, this installment delves deeper into the mythology of the Monsterverse and shows to Godzilla as the protector of the Earth. The feature film once again relies on a cast of familiar faces that include figures such as Millie Bobby Brown, Vera Farmiga and Kyle Chandler.
Godzilla vs. Kong (2021), directed by Adam Wingardis the climax of the intertwined stories of the Monsterversepitting the two most iconic titans against each other in an epic battle.
The plot follows a team of scientists trying to uncover the secrets of the Titans’ origin, while Godzilla and Kong They face each other in a monumental fight that will determine the destiny of humanity. The film, which along with its predecessors is in the catalog of Maxhas been acclaimed for its action sequences and for meeting the expectations of fans of both franchises.
