Ben Dares All

Godzilla might have top billing but, same as last time, he feels like a guest star in a King Kong movie. King Kong gets the bulk of storytelling focus as he is made relatable with feelings of loneliness, paternal leanings and even a toothache. Godzilla remains a practical force of nature and except for that instance of cat napping, he is still treated as an enigma. It's been a few years so details about the scientist, her adopted daughter and the humor relief are largely forgotten. But we're just around for the slugfest. As fun as the wrestling moves are, the antagonist seems like a letdown after Ghidorah and Mecha Godzilla. His whip work was amazing and he does have an aura of charismatic dislike but he doesn't feel like a threat worthy of Godzilla absorbing tons of radiation to fight. Same with Kong getting a mecha fist. Still, The New Empire is an enjoyable romp. They could just drop the pretenses and just make a straight Kong movie, really.