Godzilla Movies - Watch Order: Standalone Films

1998 - 20233 Films6h 22m3.9 Average

These three completely separate Godzilla films exist in their own continuities, each offering a radically different interpretation of the legendary kaiju. These range from Hollywood's attempt at an American blockbuster reimagining to Japan's return to serious political allegory and intimate character-driven storytelling.

The standalone entries prove the character's versatility across cultures and creative visions. Each film approaches Godzilla from a fresh perspective, making this selection perfect for exploring how different filmmakers interpret the same monster.

1
Godzilla poster

Godzilla

19982h 18m2.9
Director: Roland Emmerich
Cast: Matthew Broderick, Jean Reno, Maria Pitillo, Hank Azaria, Kevin Dunn

French nuclear tests irradiate an iguana into a giant monster that viciously attacks freighter ships in the Pacific Ocean. A team of experts, including Niko Tatopoulos, conclude that the oversized reptile is the culprit. Before long, the giant lizard is loose in Manhattan as the US military races to destroy the monster before it reproduces and it's spawn takes over the world.

Science FictionActionThriller
2
Shin Godzilla poster

Shin Godzilla

20162h4.2
Director: Shinji Higuchi
Cast: Hiroki Hasegawa, Yutaka Takenouchi, Satomi Ishihara, Kengo Kora, Satoru Matsuo

When a massive, gilled monster emerges from the deep and tears through the city, the government scrambles to save its citizens. A rag-tag team of volunteers cuts through a web of red tape to uncover the monster's weakness and its mysterious ties to a foreign superpower. But time is not on their side - the greatest catastrophe to ever befall the world is about to evolve right before their very eyes.

ActionScience FictionHorror
3
Godzilla Minus One poster

Godzilla Minus One

20232h 4m4.5
Director: Takashi Yamazaki
Cast: Ryunosuke Kamiki, Minami Hamabe, Yuki Yamada, Munetaka Aoki, Hidetaka Yoshioka

In postwar Japan, Godzilla brings new devastation to an already scorched landscape. With no military intervention or government help in sight, the survivors must join together in the face of despair and fight back against an unrelenting horror.

Science FictionHorrorAction