The Godzilla Millennium era is a thrilling ride for any Kaiju enthusiast, and if you're looking to dive into this series, you've come to the right place! This era, running from 1999 to 2004, features a set of standalone Godzilla films, each offering a unique take on the iconic monster. Unlike other Godzilla eras that maintain continuity, the Millennium series allows filmmakers to reimagine Godzilla's origins and threats, making it a diverse and exciting collection. So, buckle up, guys, as we explore the Godzilla Millennium era movies in order of release, providing you with essential insights into each film.

1. Godzilla 2000 (1999)

Godzilla 2000 marked a fresh start for the King of the Monsters as the first film in the Millennium era. Released in 1999, this movie brings Godzilla face-to-face with a new adversary: Orga. The plot revolves around the Godzilla Prediction Network (GPN), a group dedicated to studying and predicting Godzilla's appearances. Their work becomes crucial when a mysterious object is discovered in the ocean, eventually transforming into the monstrous Orga. What makes Godzilla 2000 stand out is its focus on modernizing Godzilla for a new audience while retaining the core elements that make the character iconic.

Directed by Takao Okawara, Godzilla 2000 delivers stunning visual effects for its time and offers a compelling narrative that blends science fiction with classic monster movie tropes. The design of Godzilla himself was updated, featuring a more menacing look with larger dorsal fins and a rougher skin texture. This design choice reflected the film's intention to present Godzilla as a more formidable and destructive force. The film's success paved the way for the subsequent entries in the Millennium series, each promising a unique vision of the Godzilla mythos. Whether you're a long-time Godzilla fan or new to the series, Godzilla 2000 is a great starting point, showcasing the enduring appeal of the King of the Monsters in the modern era. It sets the stage for the diverse and exciting films that follow, making it a pivotal entry in Godzilla's cinematic history. This movie really set the tone for what the millennium series would be. So, get your popcorn ready, because you are in for a treat!

2. Godzilla vs. Megaguirus (2000)

Godzilla vs. Megaguirus, released in 2000, offers a thrilling clash between Godzilla and a new insectoid adversary. This film introduces a unique storyline involving a black hole experiment that goes awry, creating a wormhole that summons the ancient dragonfly Megaguirus and its swarm of Meganula. The human element of the story centers around Kiriko Tsujimori, a driven scientist who seeks to destroy Godzilla using a new weapon called the Dimension Tide. Her personal vendetta against Godzilla, stemming from a past encounter, adds a layer of emotional depth to the narrative.

Directed by Masaaki Tezuka, Godzilla vs. Megaguirus is known for its fast-paced action and creative monster designs. Megaguirus, with its sleek, menacing appearance, provides a worthy challenge for Godzilla. The film's special effects team utilized a combination of practical and CGI techniques to bring the monsters to life, resulting in visually impressive battle sequences. Godzilla vs. Megaguirus also explores themes of scientific ambition and the unintended consequences of tampering with nature, a recurring motif in Godzilla films. While the film deviates from the darker tones of some previous entries, it delivers an entertaining and action-packed experience for fans of the genre. The narrative keeps viewers engaged with its blend of science fiction and monster mayhem, making it a standout entry in the Millennium era. The battle scenes are particularly memorable, showcasing Godzilla's raw power against Megaguirus's agility and speed. For those who enjoy a high-energy monster brawl, Godzilla vs. Megaguirus is a must-watch, highlighting the imaginative storytelling and visual spectacle that define the Godzilla franchise. You will be on the edge of your seat the whole time, I promise!

3. Godzilla, Mothra and King Ghidorah: Giant Monsters All-Out Attack (2001)

Godzilla, Mothra and King Ghidorah: Giant Monsters All-Out Attack, often shortened to GMK, is a standout film in the Millennium era for its unique portrayal of Godzilla as a purely destructive force. Released in 2001 and directed by Shusuke Kaneko, known for his work on the Gamera trilogy, GMK presents a darker, more malevolent Godzilla than seen in many other films. In this movie, Godzilla is powered by the vengeful spirits of those who died in the Pacific War, making him a symbol of destruction and resentment. The film's plot revolves around three ancient guardian monsters—Mothra, King Ghidorah, and Baragon—awakening to defend Japan from Godzilla's wrath.

GMK distinguishes itself through its deliberate departure from traditional Godzilla lore. King Ghidorah, typically portrayed as a villain, is depicted as one of the heroic guardians, adding a layer of complexity to the monster dynamics. The film's visual effects and monster designs are top-notch, with each creature rendered in stunning detail. The battles between Godzilla and the guardian monsters are epic, showcasing a blend of practical effects and CGI. GMK also delves into themes of historical memory and the consequences of war, adding depth to the monster action. The human characters, led by Yuri Tachibana, a reporter investigating the monster appearances, provide a compelling perspective on the unfolding events. GMK is celebrated for its bold reimagining of Godzilla and its supporting monsters, making it a favorite among fans. Its blend of thrilling action, compelling storytelling, and thematic depth sets it apart as a classic in the Godzilla filmography. This is in many fans' eyes one of the best godzilla movies.

4. Godzilla Against Mechagodzilla (2002)

Godzilla Against Mechagodzilla, released in 2002, takes a more grounded and militaristic approach to the Godzilla narrative. This film introduces Kiryu, a Mechagodzilla constructed from the bones of the original Godzilla from 1954. The story follows Akane Yashiro, a JSDF pilot who becomes Kiryu's main pilot after a mishap during her service. As Godzilla returns to wreak havoc, Kiryu is deployed to defend Japan, leading to intense battles between the two iconic monsters.

Directed by Masaaki Tezuka, Godzilla Against Mechagodzilla is praised for its detailed mecha design and thrilling action sequences. Kiryu's design is a standout, blending a sleek, modern aesthetic with the menacing presence of Mechagodzilla. The film's special effects are impressive, showcasing the destructive power of both Godzilla and Kiryu. Beyond the monster action, Godzilla Against Mechagodzilla explores themes of technological advancement, the ethics of creating weapons of mass destruction, and the psychological toll on those who pilot them. Akane's character arc is particularly compelling, as she grapples with the responsibility of controlling Kiryu and confronting her past mistakes. The film strikes a balance between intense monster battles and thoughtful character development, making it a well-rounded entry in the Millennium era. Godzilla Against Mechagodzilla is a favorite among fans for its blend of action, science fiction, and human drama, offering a fresh take on the classic Godzilla formula. This movie is a must watch if you like the more mecha type of godzilla movies.

5. Godzilla: Tokyo S.O.S. (2003)

Godzilla: Tokyo S.O.S., released in 2003, serves as a direct sequel to Godzilla Against Mechagodzilla, continuing the story of Kiryu and the ongoing battle against Godzilla. This film sees Godzilla returning to Japan, prompting the deployment of Kiryu once again. However, the consequences of using the original Godzilla's bones to construct Kiryu come to light, as Mothra and her larva appear, warning that the dead should be left undisturbed. The film delves into themes of respecting nature and the dangers of tampering with the past.

Directed once again by Masaaki Tezuka, Godzilla: Tokyo S.O.S. builds upon the groundwork laid by its predecessor, delivering even more spectacular monster action and exploring deeper thematic elements. The film's special effects are top-notch, with impressive visuals of Godzilla, Kiryu, and Mothra battling amidst the urban landscape of Tokyo. Godzilla: Tokyo S.O.S. also focuses on the human characters, particularly their struggle to balance technological advancement with environmental responsibility. The ethical dilemmas surrounding Kiryu's existence add a layer of complexity to the narrative. The film's conclusion offers a poignant resolution, emphasizing the importance of harmony between humanity and nature. Godzilla: Tokyo S.O.S. is a satisfying conclusion to the Kiryu saga, providing fans with thrilling action, compelling characters, and thought-provoking themes. It stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of the Godzilla franchise and its ability to evolve while staying true to its roots. If you enjoyed Godzilla Against Mechagodzilla, you absolutely must watch this movie.

Conclusion

The Godzilla Millennium era offers a diverse and exciting collection of films that reimagine the King of the Monsters in unique ways. From the modern update of Godzilla 2000 to the darker themes of GMK and the mecha action of Godzilla Against Mechagodzilla and Tokyo S.O.S., each film brings something new to the Godzilla mythos. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the series, the Millennium era provides a thrilling and engaging experience that showcases the enduring appeal of Godzilla. So, dive in and enjoy the ride, guys! You won't be disappointed!