In a thrilling development for fans of the Monsterverse, the highly anticipated sequel to Godzilla vs. Kong has found its director in a fresh face to the franchise. Adam Wingard, who previously helmed Godzilla vs. Kong, returns to direct Godzilla X Kong: The New Empire, bringing with him a mix of returning and new cast members.
Legendary Pictures and Warner Bros. have been steadily building their interconnected Monsterverse, capturing the essence of Toho’s classic kaiju films. The franchise has successfully brought together iconic monsters like Godzilla, King Kong, and others, creating a cinematic universe that resonates with fans of the original Japanese films.
Godzilla X Kong: The New Empire continues this tradition, opening at a time when Godzilla is seen as a chaotic hero rather than a mere threat. The film doesn’t require viewers to have seen previous Monsterverse entries, but familiarity with them certainly enhances the experience. The story revolves around Godzilla and King Kong once again clashing in a battle that could determine the fate of humanity.
In this new installment, Godzilla has become a reluctant protector of Earth, causing as much destruction as he prevents. The film’s early scenes depict Godzilla in action, battling other kaiju with his signature ferocity. Despite the chaos, humanity has come to accept Godzilla’s presence as a necessary force to keep other Titans at bay in the Hollow Earth, the mysterious realm from which Kong originates.
The New Empire introduces new human characters alongside familiar faces like Dr. Ilene Andrews (Rebecca Hall) and podcaster Bernie Hayes (Brian Tyree Henry). However, the human characters often feel out of place, lacking the depth expected from survivors of multiple Titan encounters. This awkwardness serves as a narrative device to catch up newcomers to the Monsterverse, with characters like Ilene providing exposition rather than engaging in meaningful dialogue.
Monarch researchers, who have studied Titans extensively, are baffled when Godzilla begins seeking out nuclear reactors for sustenance. This confusion is partly due to Kong’s absence, as he has been residing in the Earth’s core. The film uses this setup to explore Kong’s new life in the Hollow Earth, delving into his connections with Jia (Kaylee Hottle) and the ancient realm.
The New Empire feels like a grand nature documentary at times, showcasing Kong’s solitary existence and his encounters with other Titan species. Kong’s expressive eyes and facial animations convey his emotions, making his journey through the Hollow Earth both visually stunning and emotionally resonant. His interactions with a young Titan named Suko add depth to his character, highlighting his loneliness and desire for companionship.
Despite the film’s focus on Kong, it frequently shifts back to human characters to explain the unfolding events. This back-and-forth can feel jarring, as the film’s strength lies in its monster-centric narrative. The action sequences, reminiscent of pro wrestling matches, are a highlight, with Kong and the new antagonist, Skar King, engaging in brutal, cleverly shot battles.
As the story progresses, Kong’s new power glove and his alliance with Godzilla lead to some of the film’s most memorable moments. The sight of Kong riding on Godzilla’s back into battle is both absurd and exhilarating, a nod to the more whimsical Toho films. However, this shift in tone may feel out of place for some, as it diverges from the Monsterverse’s established trajectory.
Godzilla X Kong: The New Empire, pronounced “Godzilla Kong” like a first and last name, delivers enough spectacular fights to satisfy fans. However, those hoping for a clear path forward for the franchise might be left wondering about its future direction. The film’s over-the-top finale, while entertaining, raises questions about where Legendary Pictures will take the Monsterverse next.
The film stars Dan Stevens, Alex Ferns, Fala Chen, and Rachel House, with Stevens joining the franchise as a lead. The screenplay, crafted by Terry Rossio, Simon Barrett, and Jeremy Slater, continues the Monsterverse’s tradition of blending human and monster narratives. Godzilla X Kong: The New Empire premiered at the TCL Chinese Theatre in Los Angeles and has already sparked a range of reactions on social media.
Early reviews highlight the film’s vibrant visuals, intense kaiju action, and the dynamic between Godzilla and Kong. While some critics note the thin storyline and clunky human elements, the overall reception suggests that the film delivers on its promise of monster mayhem. As the Monsterverse continues to evolve, fans can look forward to more epic battles and the potential for new adventures in this ever-expanding cinematic universe.
