This film pits Godzilla against malevolent creatures who, bolstered by humanity's scientific arrogance, threaten our very existence.

Rating: 8/10 (10 March 2017)

Gareth Edward's version of "Godzilla" is an honorable monster- invasion film of all sorts. It is very different from Tristar's 1998 film of the same title where its monster loves to eat fish and wreaks havoc out of pointlessness which is so cheesy and laughable in a very bad way. Edward's version has a more tolerable reasoning. And it was improved even more by its impressive cinematography, wise and humble usage of special effects and the CGI creation of Godzilla, which looks almost completely faithful to the 1954 original.
I am somehow enjoying the form of this film. The action is bigger when it involves humans. As much as possible, when the monsters fight, it limits itself to be action-packed by setting the camera work in the human perspective and sometimes at an even more distant range. It's not that the monster action isn't happening. It's definitely there and special effects are used but its style tries to make its audience be a part of the scene and also to tranquilize its nature to succumb in clichéd action sequences.
I actually prefer it that way. Comparing this to last year's "Pacific Rim," "Godzilla" is definitely more exciting. Why? Because "Pacific Rim" is fully drowned in monster mayhem and uproarious action so mindless it will make you yawn or scratch your heads. It gives a very detached, easily weary effect (although its other elements like its human drama and stunning visuals made it irresistible). In "Godzilla" however, the lesser focus or up-close look on the monster action gives more immense anticipation whether it happens or not.
The movie is also impressive on not showing its monster feature so easily. Patience definitely builds excitement as in Steven Spielberg's "Jaws." It slowly introduces Godzilla, starting with the body parts first in creeping silence. But when it finally show Godzilla's full image and roars so mightily, the scene easily becomes iconic. That was such an epic entrance. And it doesn't end there. It is filled with so many remarkable images of Godzilla. The wide shots of this monster are considered the best as it shows its entire scale while enamored by the subtle palette of its canvas.
Godzilla is the main star of this picture although it has less of him. He roars so great and his fiery breath dominates the film with inexplicable power. Honestly, I think no one could have it the other way around.
To generalize it all, "Godzilla" is an epic monster-invasion picture that triumphs greatly because of valuing its CGI and special effects by utilizing it more in achieving an artistic statement and immersive quality than just exhibiting heavy cataclysmic action. It effects are into impressive visuals that emits beautiful imagery and the cinematography anchored it with competence.
Recreating Godzilla in a rare, perfect form is definitely something. But without having an idea on picking elements to collaborate it with,it would be almost like burying this iconic monster into the deepest trench of the ocean. I'm glad that this version has met some wise decisions. It wasn't for everyone but at least it shows utmost respect.