The Godzilla and Kong film franchises represent a titanically entertaining history of monster movies, spanning decades and international waters. Understanding the best order to experience these behemoths requires considering various continuities and timelines, but the most satisfying approach is generally to follow their individual, self-contained series first, then culminate with the crossover MonsterVerse.
Understanding the Monster Mash: Navigating Godzilla and Kong’s Cinematic Universes
The key to conquering this monster movie marathon is recognizing that multiple continuities exist. There’s the original Japanese Godzilla series (Showa era), the Heisei era, the Millennium era, and the recent MonsterVerse, all with distinct timelines. Kong, while less prolific, also has his own canon, primarily focused on the original King Kong (1933) and its remakes, culminating in the showdown with Godzilla. Ignoring these distinctions can lead to a confusing viewing experience. For optimal enjoyment, approach each series as a self-contained saga.
A Chronological Roadmap: Recommended Viewing Orders
Here are several recommended viewing orders, catering to different viewing preferences. Note that some films exist in multiple cuts (e.g., King Kong vs. Godzilla), and which version you choose is a matter of personal preference.
Option 1: Focus on the Japanese Godzilla Films (By Era)
This approach immerses you in the rich history and evolving styles of the Japanese Godzilla.
- Showa Era (1954-1975): Start with the original Godzilla (1954) – a powerful allegory. Then proceed chronologically: Godzilla Raids Again, King Kong vs. Godzilla, Mothra vs. Godzilla, Ghidorah, the Three-Headed Monster, Invasion of Astro-Monster, Ebirah, Horror of the Deep, Son of Godzilla, Destroy All Monsters, All Monsters Attack, Godzilla vs. Hedorah, Godzilla vs. Gigan, Godzilla vs. Megalon, Godzilla vs. Mechagodzilla, Terror of Mechagodzilla.
- Heisei Era (1984-1995): A darker, more continuity-focused series: The Return of Godzilla, Godzilla vs. Biollante, Godzilla vs. King Ghidorah, Godzilla vs. Mothra, Godzilla vs. Mechagodzilla II, Godzilla vs. SpaceGodzilla, Godzilla vs. Destoroyah.
- Millennium Era (1999-2004): This era offers distinct, unconnected stories: Godzilla 2000, Godzilla vs. Megaguirus, Godzilla, Mothra and King Ghidorah: Giant Monsters All-Out Attack, Godzilla Against Mechagodzilla, Godzilla: Tokyo S.O.S., Godzilla: Final Wars.
Option 2: The King Kong Collection (Standalone or Leading to Godzilla)
This focuses on Kong’s solo adventures, potentially leading into the MonsterVerse showdown.
- King Kong (1933): The classic that started it all.
- Son of Kong (1933): A direct sequel to the original.
- King Kong vs. Godzilla (1962): An important, though often comedic, crossover.
- King Kong Escapes (1967): A Japanese-produced adventure.
- King Kong (1976): A remake of the original.
- King Kong Lives (1986): A sequel to the 1976 remake.
- Kong: Skull Island (2017): Part of the MonsterVerse.
Option 3: The MonsterVerse Experience
A modern, interconnected cinematic universe. This is the easiest to follow for modern audiences.
- Godzilla (2014)
- Kong: Skull Island (2017)
- Godzilla: King of the Monsters (2019)
- Godzilla vs. Kong (2021)
- Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire (2024)
Option 4: Chronological by Release Date (A True Marathon)
This is the most comprehensive, but requires patience due to the varying quality and styles across the decades. Starting with the original King Kong (1933) and going straight through to Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire (2024). Prepare for whiplash from the stylistic shifts!
Essential Considerations Before You Begin
Before diving in, consider your priorities. Are you a completist who wants to see everything, or are you primarily interested in the modern special effects and storytelling of the MonsterVerse? Your answer will dictate the best viewing order for you. Also, be prepared for a range of film quality – some are cinematic masterpieces, others are delightfully cheesy. Adjust your expectations accordingly and embrace the fun!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Godzilla and Kong
H3: What is the best Godzilla movie to start with?
For newcomers, the original Godzilla (1954) is essential to understand the franchise’s themes and origins. Alternatively, Godzilla (2014) provides a modern entry point with impressive visuals.
H3: Is there a specific order within the Showa era Godzilla films?
Yes, the Showa era films generally follow a loose continuity, with recurring characters and plot threads. Watching them in release order is recommended for the full experience.
H3: Are all the Godzilla movies connected?
No. The Godzilla franchise is divided into several distinct eras (Showa, Heisei, Millennium, and MonsterVerse), each with its own continuity. You can treat each era as a separate series.
H3: What makes the Heisei era Godzilla films unique?
The Heisei era is characterized by its stronger emphasis on continuity, darker tone, and scientific explanations for Godzilla’s existence and powers.
H3: Where does Shin Godzilla fit in?
Shin Godzilla (2016) is a standalone film unrelated to any existing continuity. It offers a modern, realistic take on Godzilla’s initial emergence.
H3: Are the American Godzilla movies considered canon?
The 1998 Godzilla (often referred to as “Zilla”) is generally not considered canon by Japanese fans or within the MonsterVerse. The 2014 Godzilla is part of the canonized MonsterVerse.
H3: What order should I watch the MonsterVerse movies in?
The MonsterVerse movies should be watched in release order: Godzilla (2014), Kong: Skull Island (2017), Godzilla: King of the Monsters (2019), Godzilla vs. Kong (2021), Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire (2024).
H3: Is Kong: Skull Island necessary to understand the MonsterVerse?
Yes, Kong: Skull Island is essential to the MonsterVerse. It introduces Kong, Skull Island, and the organization Monarch, all of which play crucial roles in subsequent films.
H3: Are there any animated Godzilla or Kong movies worth watching?
Yes! The Godzilla anime trilogy (Godzilla: Planet of the Monsters, Godzilla: City on the Edge of Battle, and Godzilla: The Planet Eater) on Netflix offers a unique, futuristic take. Skull Island on Netflix is also a solid animated show.
H3: Where can I stream these movies?
Availability varies by region. Check streaming services like Netflix, HBO Max, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and Criterion Channel. Rental options are also available on platforms like Google Play Movies & TV and Apple TV.
H3: Should I watch the dubbed or subtitled versions of the Japanese films?
This is a matter of personal preference. Subtitled versions offer the most accurate translation and original performances. Dubbed versions are easier to follow but may lose some nuance.
H3: Will there be more Godzilla and Kong movies in the future?
Given the success of the MonsterVerse, it’s highly likely that more Godzilla and Kong movies will be produced. Warner Bros. and Legendary Pictures have shown a strong commitment to the franchise.