Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire premieres tomorrow, March 29, and many fans of the franchise are excited to see the new movie. But before that, it seems like a good idea to see how the beloved story has evolved over the decades. These five classic Godzilla movies are best suited for the task.
Godzilla Against MechaGodzilla (2002, 6.6 on IMDb)
Available on: Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV+
The twenty-seventh film in the original Japanese Godzilla franchise sees the return of the titular monster to wreak havoc on the world and terrorize the people of Japan. To fight the beast, a new mechanized version of Godzilla is created from the remains of the previous monster. However, it turns out to be possessed by the creature's soul, posing a danger to its pilot Akane and the people around her.
Shin Godzilla (2016, 6.8 on IMDb)
Available on: Amazon Prime Video
The thirty-first installment in the franchise explores the inability of modern society and its bureaucracy to effectively manage crises, such as the emergence of a giant sea monster that destroys everything in its path. As the monster continues its raids on land, it grows larger and more dangerous, challenging the humans who have yet to learn how to deal with the beast.
Godzilla vs. Destoroyah (1995, 6.9 on IMDb)
Available on: Amazon Prime Video
The twenty-second film in the original franchise tells the story of Godzilla, who has been affected by the uranium in the Earth's core. Exposed to radiation, the monster's heart turns into a nuclear bomb, ready to explode at any moment. Meanwhile, a research facility in Japan accidentally creates a monster called the Destroyer that destroys everything in its path. As Japan prepares for the worst, the two monsters may have a solution to both problems – neither should stay alive. So the battle begins.
Godzilla, Mothra and King Ghidorah: Giant Monsters All-Out Attack (2001, 7.0 on IMDb)
Available on: Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV+
The twenty-sixth installment in the Godzilla franchise follows a journalist who has notoriously produced several questionable documentaries as she uncovers the truth about ancient monsters – Mothra, King Ghidorah and Baragon – who come to Japan's aid when another Godzilla, possessed by the souls of slain Japanese World War II soldiers, rises to destroy the country. And the four beasts clash for the fate of the world.
Godzilla (1954, 7.5 on IMDb)
Available on: Amazon Prime Video
The first film in the franchise begins the story of Godzilla, an ancient reptilian beast that lives at the bottom of the ocean. After US nuclear bomb tests in the Pacific, Godzilla awakens from his deep sleep and wreaks havoc on the Japanese Navy. But when the beast emerges from the ocean, breathing fire and destroying everything in its path, the fate of the entire world hangs in the balance.