Some movies are meant to be seen on the biggest screen possible. Take “Dune: Part 2”, for instance, which will surely lose some of its magic on TV. On a smaller scale, we could also talk about Legendary’s Monsterverse films, which have been destroying cities and other settings with their giant monsters for a decade. Despite their many flaws, they offer cinematic experiences, and audiences are well aware of it.
A Success That Could Have Ended in Court
Three years ago, we welcomed the release of “Godzilla vs. Kong,” promising one of the most titanic confrontations of all time. From its first trailer, the blockbuster was met with enthusiasm from the audience, but it also sparked a bitter dispute over distribution methods between Warner Bros. and Legendary, the latter being very upset with the studio’s decision to release the film simultaneously in U.S. theaters and on HBO Max.
It was no small matter, as Legendary threatened to take the century-old film studio to court, fearing it would undermine the blockbuster’s chances of success. However, an agreement was reached, allowing both cinematic and TV audiences (in the U.S. only) to enjoy “Godzilla vs. Kong” in what was a colossal spectacle of action and science fiction, grossing $450 million. This might seem modest considering the film’s viral phenomenon, but it was Warner Bros.’ most successful production in the unusual streaming-centric year of 2021.
Films like “The Matrix Resurrections” and “The Suicide Squad” flopped at the box office due to the company’s hybrid release strategy, and even a science fiction masterpiece like “Dune” earned even less, despite a more favorable atmosphere for big box office hits. Thus, “Godzilla vs. Kong” was a massive success that clearly demonstrated our appetite for the saga.
Journey to the Center of the Earth, More or Less
Setting aside the peculiarities of its release, it suffices to say that “Godzilla vs. Kong” promised viewers an epic battle for all ages between two legendary foes, instigated by unseen forces in a mystery and science fiction story inspired by Hollow Earth theories, reminiscent of Jules Verne’s “Journey to the Center of the Earth,” explaining the origins of these creatures. In short, the biggest gladiator fight in history.
“GvK” can be viewed on HBO Max and Netflix, where it has just been released. We remind you that its sequel premiered in theaters a few weeks ago and looks set to be another hit, though it may struggle to surpass its predecessor’s commercial success. We leave you with the review of “Godzilla and Kong: The New Empire.”
