Sakurai and Kojima Encourage Fans to Experience ‘Godzilla Minus Zero’ in IMAX
Some films are crafted to resonate deeply, and giant monster movies are at the forefront of that experience. The latest installment in the ‘Godzilla’ franchise is designed for just such an immersive encounter, and two prominent figures in gaming have shared their thoughts. Their endorsement for watching ‘Godzilla Minus Zero’ in IMAX is certainly compelling.
As the sequel to 2023’s ‘Godzilla Minus One’, this film marks the first Japanese production shot specifically for IMAX, utilizing IMAX-certified digital cameras and tailored for the format’s superior sound and visuals. IMAX has confirmed that 75 minutes of the film’s total 135-minute runtime will feature its expanded aspect ratio, maximizing the viewing experience. The film is set to premiere in Japan on November 3, with IMAX Early Access screenings in North America on the same day, followed by a wider release through GKIDS on November 6.
This context makes the reactions from two notable fans particularly significant. After previewing the film ahead of its Japanese debut, Hideo Kojima and Masahiro Sakurai both encouraged audiences to see it on the big screen. Sakurai, the creator of ‘Super Smash Bros.’, expressed in his own post that “Kaiju films should be experienced on the big screen.”
Kojima, known for ‘Metal Gear’ and ‘Death Stranding’, attended the Japan premiere at TOHO Cinemas Hibiya. He shared that he had been anticipating the film for three years and described himself as a massive Godzilla enthusiast and admirer of actress Minami Hamabe. His review highlighted moments that met his expectations and others that exceeded them.
Some scenes moved him to tears, while others finally showcased visuals he had long wished to see. He humorously noted that he could almost feel dorsal fins sprouting from his back during the climax and mentioned plans to return for multiple IMAX screenings post-release.
Sakurai took a more measured stance. He expressed gratitude to the organizers for the invitation, commended his seat and viewing conditions, and mentioned attending the stage greeting. He refrained from discussing the plot, instead emphasizing the importance of watching it in a cinema.
He also pondered how many more kaiju films of this caliber he might get to see, reiterating his recommendation to experience it in theaters. Neither creator revealed any spoilers, which only adds to the film’s intrigue.
The anticipation is palpable. ‘Godzilla Minus One’ won the Oscar for Best Visual Effects at the 96th Academy Awards, making it the first Godzilla film and the first non-English language film to achieve this honor. It grossed over $116 million worldwide on a $15 million budget, establishing itself as the highest-grossing Japan-produced Godzilla film.
The new film continues the story in 1949, two years after the events of the first, as the Shikishima family confronts a new disaster. Ryunosuke Kamiki reprises his role as Koichi Shikishima alongside Hamabe as Noriko Oishi, with Takashi Yamazaki returning as writer, director, and visual effects lead. New cast members include Masami Nagasawa and Jun Kunimura.
The new trailer for ‘GODZILLA MINUS ZERO’ has been released.
In theaters on November 6. https://t.co/sgaEXweerd— DiscussingFilm (@DiscussingFilm) September 8, 2026
Early reviews indicate that the IMAX emphasis is warranted. Critics have lauded the spectacle, with one outlet stating the film is meant to be experienced on the largest screen possible and delivers on the IMAX promise. JoBlo awarded it a perfect 10 out of 10, calling it a breathtaking sequel worthy of ‘Minus One’.
However, not all reviews are entirely positive. SlashFilm noted it as bigger and bolder but not necessarily better than its predecessor, while Dread Central rated it 3 out of 5, calling it a disappointing step down due to sluggish pacing and overt sentimentality. Nonetheless, Dread Central acknowledged that the IMAX experience would still be worthwhile for the thunderous sound of monster action.
The release carries several historical milestones. It premiered at the 64th New York Film Festival on September 26 as the Spotlight Gala selection and received an R rating from the MPA for violent content and bloody imagery, a first for a Godzilla film.
Japan’s November 3 release date is significant, coinciding with the anniversary of the original ‘Godzilla’ film’s debut in 1954. This marks the first time a Japan-produced Godzilla movie will launch in Japan and North America within the same week.
With two of gaming’s most influential figures advocating for the cinematic experience, fans have even more incentive to secure their tickets. Whether you’re a lifelong kaiju fan or a newcomer, the takeaway is clear: bigger is indeed better.
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