Godzilla (9/16/2014)

Rated PG-13 for intense sequences of destruction, mayhem and creature violence.

Starring Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Bryan Cranston, Elizabeth Olsen and David Strathairn

Directed by Gareth Edwards (Monsters)

Okay, I’ll admit I bought into the hype and was really excited to see this Godzilla reboot; an epic rebirth to Toho’s iconic Godzilla. This spectacular adventure pits the world’s most famous monster against malevolent creatures that, bolstered by humanity’s scientific arrogance, threaten our very existence.

So let’s start with some more obvious observations. Godzilla lacks depth when it comes to the storyline, character development, and a large cast. What it does have, is a giant lizard that destroys everything in its path!

Whether it’s the sweeping overhead shots or the gianormas combat sequences, Godzilla certainly does not lack action or destruction.

Because the visuals were so well done, it was actually disturbing on some level watching Godzilla and the two MUTOs (Massive Unidentified Terrestrial Organism) destroying San Francisco, Honolulu and other cities.

The cast certainly wasn’t as large as Godzilla, but they all delivered very solid performances. And here’s a sort of non-spoiler spoiler: Godzilla isn’t afraid to kill off “important people.” He is a giant creature and as a result no one is safe.

The only real failing of Godzilla is kind of a significant one. The filmmakers tried to weave a story of significance and sacrifice into this massive action film. Unfortunately it never measures up to “the star” and feels forced.

So whether you remember the cheesier “man in a rubber Godzilla suit running through a miniature village” films or the 1998 version, this Godzilla is worth watching as a “Rental.”

SHOULD KIDS SEE IT?
There is no sex or nudity and the profanity is pretty mild for a PG-13 film.

The battles between Godzilla and the MUTOs are pretty intense. We see widespread destruction and many civilians are killed.

CONVERSATION STARTER:

1. What are some words you would use to describe Godzilla?

Read Galatians 5:22-23

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.


2. Why didn’t you include any of those words in your description of Godzilla?


3. Can those words be used to describe you?


4. What are some things you can do this week to better allow the fruit of the Spirit to shine in your life?