For my money, as a card-carrying kaiju sicko who’s seen every Godzilla that’s stomped its way through both Japan and North America (along with its many ancillary films), Takashi Yamazaki’s Godzilla Minus One (2023) is right up there with the best of them. Surpassing most with intestine-shaking sound, some of the most stunning visuals that the Godzilla franchise has to offer, and – most surprisingly – a deeply emotional human story that had me invested from start to finish (and then some), Minus One was one of my favourite films of 2023.
It’s no surprise that after Minus One not only picked up several awards for its visual effects but also became one of Japan’s highest-grossing films of all time, Yamazaki and team would be tapped for a sequel. Godzilla Minus Zero, insane title aside, is set to be released in Japan on November 3, 2026 and in the United States on November 6. Plot details are scant at the moment, though there are rumours of the return of Minus One star Ryunokuke Kamiki as WW2 Kamikaze pilot Kōichi Shikishima and possibly a second kaiju to keep Godzilla company. Here’s the production synopsis:
“Following the devastation of Godzilla’s first rampage in Godzilla Minus One, Kōichi Shikishima is determined to lead a quiet life, rebuilding his family with Noriko (Minami Hamabe) and young Akiko (Sae Nagatani) while stepping away from the nightmares of war and monsters.
“However, peace is short-lived when Godzilla returns—fully regenerated, larger and more ferocious—while something ancient begins to stir beneath Aokigahara near Mount Fuji, endangering the fragile nation and forcing Kōichi to reconsider his promise.
“With stakes higher than ever, Kōichi reluctantly returns to the fight, teaming up with old comrades, and U.S.-Japan alliance forces to confront the two kaiju and protect those he loves—especially as Noriko’s cell connection to Godzilla strengthens, pulling her dangerously closer to the monster’s rage.”
Fresh out the kitchen, we’ve got the first teaser trailer!
Did I lose my absolute mind when Zilla stepped up next to the Statue of Liberty? You bet I did. And you know that that ‘Filmed for IMAX’ guarantees that I’ll be seeing this on the biggest possible screen this November. See you there, sickos!
