Godzilla Minus One Becomes the Highest Grossing Japanese Language Godzilla Movie of All Time
The latest film in the iconic Godzilla franchise, Godzilla Minus One, has roared its way to box office success, becoming the highest-grossing Japanese language Godzilla film of all time. Directed by Takashi Yamazaki, Godzilla Minus One has surpassed the global box office earnings of its predecessor, Shin Godzilla, indicating the monster’s continued appeal and potential for further growth.
Godzilla Minus One Smashes Records to Become Biggest Japanese Godzilla Film
As per Collider, with $42 million earned domestically so far and $35 million from overseas, Godzilla Minus One has brought in $78 million worldwide. Comparatively, 2016’s Shin Godzilla ended its run with a global total of $77.9 million. While Shin Godzilla drew over $76 million internationally but less than $2 million in the U.S., Godzilla Minus One has demonstrated strength in both markets.
“We’re thrilled that audiences around the world continue to embrace Godzilla,” said producer Hideki Oka. “Yamazaki-san has crafted an epic that honors the franchise’s origins while giving fans the stunning visuals and heart-pounding action they crave.”
Can a Low-Budget Godzilla Attract Awards Attention?
Unlike recent big-budget Hollywood Godzilla films that cost over $150 million, Godzilla Minus One was produced on a modest $15 million budget. It was also far better received than other entries in the series, earning a rare 98% critics rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Now, Godzilla Minus One is expected to be a contender this awards season.
“Godzilla films are often overlooked come awards time,” said entertainment journalist Hideko Sato. “But the praise for the direction, visuals, and messaging of Godzilla Minus One may change that.”
The genre-bending film combines visually stunning monster action with postwar social commentary, harkening back to 1954’s original Godzilla as a metaphor for nuclear destruction.
Will Godzilla Minus One Join the All-Time Greats?
Godzilla Minus One recently passed Guillermo del Toro’s 2006 fantasy Pan’s Labyrinth to become the sixth highest-grossing foreign language film of all time at the U.S. box office. With Japan as one of the largest international markets, it has the potential to crack the top five or even reach the coveted $100 million global mark.
“These numbers show Godzilla is more popular than ever,” said box office analyst Daisuke Ito. “Minus One is resonating with critics and audiences across generations. This accessible take crafted with care and respect for the character should continue attracting crowds and adding to its historic haul.”
Also Read: Godzilla Minus One May be Getting a Sequel, Compete With Legendary’s Monsterverse
As of now, Godzilla Minus One stands as a definitive entry in the legendary kaiju franchise, bringing in new fans while giving longtime enthusiasts the Godzilla experience they crave. With returns still rolling in, one thing is certain – the King of the Monsters is here to stay.
