Excitement hangs in the air as we walk out of the parking garage.
Before us looming the towering silhouette of the cinema.
As we step through the doors, the modern and clean interior immediately puts us in the mood for a movie escape.
At the kiosk, dazzling displays of popcorn and candy lure us in.
Rows of sugary drinks and combo offers on large screens create a symphony of temptation.
Sitting in my comfy chair, a refreshing Coke Zero and a mountain of nachos complete my movie ritual.
As I look left and right at my two sons, their big eyes full of anticipation, an infectious excitement begins to bubble up inside me.
Despite my initial reservations, Godzilla has never captured my imagination as much as King Kong and the endless sequels often let me down.
However, I decided to approach the film with an open mind.
Because who knows?
Perhaps this huge monster combination will surprise me.
Prepared to be proven wrong, I snuggle down, ready for an honest movie adventure.
Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire plunges you headfirst into a new battle between the iconic titans, but the result is a mixture.
The titans remind me strongly of a movie I've seen before, “Pacific Rim” and also its sequel “Pacific Rim Uprising.”
But it turns out they have no further connection to the Godzilla/Kong films.
But back to this movie.
If you are looking for epic titanic battles then you will be very happy after seeing this movie.
The action sequences in the movie are nonstop and really amazing, especially the battle scenes with Kong.
Visually stunning, with sophisticated creature design and creative combat choreography, is what director Adam Wingard delivers.
However, the human story is pushed to the background.
An attempt is made to develop a deep plot but is not really successful. The human characters remain shallow and predictable.
Still, I walked out of the cinema reasonably satisfied.
What's my verdict?
A Thumbs Up for:
Great action:
The monster fights are the main course and they are delicious.
Kong (my favorite) takes center stage here and Godzilla plays a meager supporting role.
There are a few genuinely amazing scenes in the movie for Kong.
Especially his encounters with other giant apes in Hollow Earth.
Visual feast:
The film is full of computer-generated imagery (CGI).
Some moments this is excellent and brings these Titans to life with stunning detail.
From Godzilla's atomic breath to the bioluminescent wonders of Hollow Earth, the film is a feast for the eyes.
But at times, as far as I'm concerned, it also got carried away; this struck me, especially in Godzilla's scenes.
Kong's emotional journey:
While the human drama falters, Kong's development is surprisingly moving.
An unexpected level of depth is added by his connection with a new friend.
Thumbs Down:
Human story falters:
Like I already mentioned, the human characters feel like side issues.
Sometimes taking the momentum out of the story.
It seems they are needed to explain the script; there is no natural flow to it.
While Kong is given ample time to shine, Godzilla is moved to the sidelined.
If you're a fan of the atomic lizard, you'll probably be disappointed with his limited role.
Godzilla x Kong:
The New Empire is at its core a popcorn movie, mind zero and watch it.
If you're looking for a visually stunning monster fight, this was the right pick.
But those looking for a more balanced story with compelling human characters or unexpected plot twists may come up a little short.
Final Verdict:
It surely is worth watching for the action scenes alone, but don't expect a groundbreaking or innovative film.
But I definitely had another enjoyable afternoon.
This fine cinema alone and in the company of my two boys is worth the visit.
@meraki7578💚
📷 Banners and dividers: Created with Canva Pro
📷 Photos: Owned and shot by me with an iPhone 14
📷 Photos edited: Photoshop Express
