Common Sense Media Review
By Tom Cassidy
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Exciting monster movie has satirical edge, threat, violence.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 13+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Shin Godzilla
What's the Story?
In SHIN GODZILLA, a mysterious creature emerges in Tokyo Bay and causes havoc in the city. Meanwhile, government departments debate how to tackle the threat.
Is It Any Good?
This 2016 Godzilla reboot is equally serious and hilarious. Shin Godzilla is thrilling and moving, and features what might be the most monstrous Godzilla in the big guy's eight-decade history. Within the film, writer-director Hideaki Anno (Neon Genesis Evangelion) focuses on the boardroom bureaucracy that occurs in a democracy during times of crisis. These satirical scenes are funny but the band of underdogs that save the day suggests Anno feels that change is needed in a world where nuclear and environmental disaster remain threats. The movie's cast of Japanese A-listers lifts an already strong idea to create a touching, inspirational, and downright thrilling 21st-century monster movie.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the violence and destruction in Shin Godzilla. How did it make you feel? Was it exciting? Shocking? What impact did the devastation seen in the movie have on the various characters?
What messages do you think the film was trying to tell? How could Godzilla be seen as symbolic of the nuclear bombs Japan was attacked with in World War II? How to talk with kids about violence, crime, and war.
What characters showed good examples of teamwork, perseverance, courage, and integrity? Can you think of a time when you've shown these life skills?
Movie Details
- In theaters : October 11, 2016
- On DVD or streaming : July 18, 2017
- Cast : Hiroki Hasegawa , Satomi Ishihara , Ren Ôsugi
- Directors : Hideaki Anno , Shinji Higuchi
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Crunchyroll
- Genre : Action/Adventure
- Topics : Fantasy
- Character Strengths : Courage , Integrity , Perseverance , Teamwork
- Run time : 120 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : September 18, 2025
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