Epic is an understatement

Rating: 7/10 (15 May 2014)

Godzilla is another attempt by Hollywood to revive the giant after Roland Emmerich's juvenile version in 1998. In a more pragmatic depiction, scientific experiments gone awry lead to menacing monsters being unleashed. These beasts are pitted against Godzilla, leaving the fate of humans in the balance.
The latest Japanese gem to be reworked following success stories like The Ring and The Grudge, Godzilla represents a chance to resurrect the leviathan. The opportunity lies in the capable hands of Gareth Edwards. First and foremost, in his primary foray into blockbuster territory, Edwards excels in doing justice to the titular character.
Godzilla is a force of nature, the biggest ever seen on screen, dwarfing many skyscrapers and laying waste to his surroundings. The belligerent behemoth's appearance and movement are a sight to behold. Furthermore, his iconic roar and colossal scales, exhibited by employing extensive CGI, complete his sinister look.
The director clearly prefers building anticipation rather than front loaded action. His attempt at creating anticipation and a sense of awe is akin to classics such as Jaws and Jurassic Park, where the creature lurks ominously but still makes its presence felt. However, the director does entice the viewer with fleeting glimpses and references throughout.
Also at his disposal is a coterie of enormous talent, such as veterans Bryan Cranston and Ken Watanabe and also emerging actors like Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Elizabeth Olsen. The human characters are used as the focal point of the action. The makers place great value in establishing a sentimental element in the midst of all the decimation. Bryan Cranston is particularly effective as the doom monger and delivers the most compelling human interaction sequences.
Undoubtedly, the highlight of the movie is that Godzilla is on a collision course with other monsters. The resulting encounters are worthy of the price of admission alone. Also, the spectacle renders itself well in IMAX screens.
The story also pays homage to Godzilla's roots and legacy as a metaphor for nuclear proliferation. The writer's success lies in creating an aura of plausibility. As opposed to a ludicrous narrative, there is legitimate realism in the story.
The production value of the film also shines through: the cinematography, sound design and score are all executed well to provide a haunting effect. However, flaws do persist in the movie. For instance, the acting is found wanting in particular instances in the absence of the action.
Nonetheless, such failings are few and far between. All in all, Godzilla is a fitting tribute to the King of Monsters.