Godzilla: Planet of the Monsters (2017) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
“Godzilla: Planet of the Monsters” (2017), directed by Hiroyuki Seshita and Kōbun Shizuno, is the first film in an ambitious animated trilogy that brings a fresh take to the legendary Godzilla franchise. This Netflix original anime explores a future where humanity has been forced to flee Earth due to Godzilla’s destructive reign. Mixing elements of science fiction, action, and deep philosophical questions, the movie attempts to deliver a unique perspective on the iconic kaiju.
In this review, we’ll break down the key aspects of the film and provide details on where you can stream or purchase “Godzilla: Planet of the Monsters” online in the United States.
Plot Summary: Humanity vs. Godzilla in the Far Future
Set in a distant future, “Godzilla: Planet of the Monsters” tells the story of a world devastated by Godzilla and other massive monsters, forcing humanity to abandon Earth in search of a new habitable planet. However, after decades of space travel and failing to find a suitable home, a portion of humanity returns to Earth, hoping to reclaim it from Godzilla’s dominance.
The protagonist, Haruo Sakaki, leads the charge. Haruo has harbored a deep-seated hatred for Godzilla ever since witnessing the death of his parents at the creature’s hands as a child. Alongside a group of human survivors and allied alien species, Haruo devises a plan to take down the towering monster and regain control of their home planet.
However, when they arrive, they find that Earth has changed drastically during their absence. Godzilla has evolved, and the battle for humanity’s survival against an even larger, more powerful Godzilla ensues.
Critical Reception: A New Take on the Godzilla Franchise
“Godzilla: Planet of the Monsters” received mixed reviews from critics and fans alike. Some praised its ambitious story, rich sci-fi elements, and unique animation style, while others found it lacking in terms of traditional Godzilla action.
The Positives
- Sci-Fi World-Building: One of the strengths of the film is its world-building. The futuristic setting, combined with space-faring humans and their alien allies, gives a new twist to the familiar Godzilla narrative. The depiction of Earth as a transformed, hostile planet overrun by Godzilla and other creatures creates a rich backdrop for the story.
- Philosophical Depth: The movie tackles deep themes, such as humanity’s role in the universe, environmental destruction, and the consequences of playing god. Haruo’s personal vendetta against Godzilla serves as a focal point, as he grapples with his desire for revenge versus the survival of the human race.
- Animation Style: The film employs a CGI animation style, which some viewers found to be visually stunning, particularly during the action sequences. The massive scale of Godzilla and the futuristic technology of humanity are captured well, contributing to the sense of a colossal, apocalyptic showdown.
The Negatives
- Slow Pacing: While the film’s concept is compelling, its pacing was a common point of criticism. Much of the movie focuses on setting up the plot and character development, leading to fewer action scenes than some fans expected from a Godzilla movie.
- Godzilla’s Screen Time: Unlike traditional Godzilla films where the monster is the focal point, “Planet of the Monsters” often shifts its focus toward the human characters, leaving some fans disappointed with the relatively limited screen time dedicated to Godzilla.
Ultimately, while the film offers an interesting new take on the Godzilla franchise, it may not satisfy everyone, particularly those looking for fast-paced, monster-heavy action.
Streaming “Godzilla: Planet of the Monsters” (2017): Where to Watch Online in America
If you’re looking to watch “Godzilla: Planet of the Monsters,” you’re in luck because the movie is readily available on popular streaming platforms. Here’s a breakdown of where you can stream or purchase it:
Subscription-Based Streaming Services
- Netflix: As a Netflix original, “Godzilla: Planet of the Monsters” is available for streaming on Netflix in the U.S. with a subscription. This is the primary platform for watching the movie, along with the other two films in the trilogy—”Godzilla: City on the Edge of Battle” (2018) and “Godzilla: The Planet Eater” (2018).
Netflix offers the entire trilogy as part of its streaming library, making it the most convenient option for fans who want to watch the full saga unfold.
Rent or Purchase Online
For those who prefer to rent or purchase the film rather than stream it via Netflix, there are options for digital purchase. However, availability may be more limited compared to Netflix. Common platforms include:
- Amazon Prime Video – The movie may be available for rent or purchase on this platform, though it’s primarily tied to Netflix.
- Google Play Movies – Like Amazon, “Godzilla: Planet of the Monsters” may be available for digital purchase.
- Apple TV/iTunes – Check for digital purchasing options if you’d prefer to own a copy.
Physical Media
For those who prefer a tangible collection, the Godzilla anime trilogy, including “Planet of the Monsters,” is available in Blu-ray and DVD formats. These can be purchased from major retailers like Amazon, Walmart, or Best Buy.
Why “Godzilla: Planet of the Monsters” is Worth Watching
“Godzilla: Planet of the Monsters” may not be your typical Godzilla film, but it’s worth watching for its ambitious storytelling, unique animation, and the way it reinvents the kaiju genre. The film offers a fresh look at humanity’s relationship with the giant monster, blending sci-fi concepts and philosophical questions with action-packed sequences.
If you’re a fan of the Godzilla franchise and are open to a more futuristic, anime-inspired take on the classic story, “Planet of the Monsters” provides an intriguing experience. The movie also serves as the starting point for a larger narrative, with the two sequels exploring the aftermath of humanity’s battle with Godzilla.
Conclusion: A Bold Step for the Godzilla Franchise
“Godzilla: Planet of the Monsters” (2017) stands out for its ambitious approach to the Godzilla mythos, taking the franchise in a bold new direction by combining anime, science fiction, and philosophical themes. While its pacing and limited Godzilla action may not appeal to every fan, the film’s exploration of humanity’s future and the transformation of Earth offer a refreshing perspective.
With easy access through Netflix, where the full trilogy can be streamed, and additional rental or purchase options on platforms like Amazon and Google Play, it’s never been easier to dive into this animated Godzilla universe. Whether you’re a die-hard Godzilla fan or someone looking for a unique sci-fi adventure, “Godzilla: Planet of the Monsters” is an interesting entry worth exploring.
