“Godzilla 2000: Millennium” is a Japanese science fiction film that hit the theaters in 1999. Directed by Takao Okawara, with special effects by Kenji Suzuki, it stands as a significant entry in the Godzilla franchise for several reasons. This film marked the beginning of the Millennium series of the Godzilla franchise, which consists of movies that are each stand-alone sequels to the original 1954 Godzilla movie, disregarding the continuity established by previous films in the series.
“Godzilla 2000” brought Godzilla back to its roots, emphasizing the creature’s role as a force of nature that humanity struggles to comprehend, much less control. The plot revolves around the appearance of a mysterious UFO that starts to search the oceans for genetic material from Godzilla. It becomes evident that the extraterrestrial beings controlling the UFO have sinister plans for Earth, and Godzilla becomes an unlikely defender of the human race against this new threat. The film’s climax, which features a battle between Godzilla and the UFO, which transforms into a monster named Orga, is a spectacle of kaiju action that fans of the genre love.
A noteworthy aspect of “Godzilla 2000” is its special effects. Despite the advent of CGI, the filmmakers opted for a more traditional approach, using suitmation techniques (an actor wearing a monster suit) for Godzilla, combined with miniatures and mechanical effects for the scenes of destruction and the monster battles. This approach gave the film a tactile sense of realism that resonated with fans who grew up with the earlier Godzilla movies.
The design of Godzilla in “Godzilla 2000” also received much attention. The creature was given a more ferocious look than in previous installments, with a larger, more pronounced dorsal fins and a bulkier body. This design has become one of the more iconic looks for the character, showcasing Godzilla’s raw power and imposing presence.
While the film faced mixed reviews from critics, Godzilla enthusiasts and general audiences appreciated “Godzilla 2000” for its entertainment value, impressive special effects, and the way it rebooted the franchise after the widely criticized American 1998 Godzilla movie. It reminded viewers worldwide why Godzilla has remained a compelling figure in pop culture: a creature that embodies the awe-inspiring and often terrifying aspects of the natural world.
In the sphere of Godzilla films, “Godzilla 2000” stands out for rebooting the franchise with a modern twist while staying true to the spirit of the original series. It’s a film that not only celebrated the past but also looked forward to the future of the Godzilla legacy. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the Godzilla series or a newcomer curious about these monster movies, “Godzilla 2000” is a thrilling piece of cinema that captures the imagination and exemplifies the enduring appeal of Japan’s most famous kaiju.