In Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire, director Adam Wingard - who previously helmed Godzilla vs. Kong - wears his love of monster movies on his sleeve. Really leaning into the VFX and foregrounding the monsters more than they ever have been in the MonsterVerse series, Wingard’s warmth towards these fantastic beasts is clear to see, as the giant ape and radioactive lizard join forces to take on the fearsome Skar King.
Wingard also incorporates in Easter eggs and references to the classic Toho films throughout. Speaking to the Inside Total Film podcast and GamesRadar+, he confirms that the Showa era is his favorite Godzilla one. “I like the psychedelic, colorful vibe,” he says. “Godzilla vs. Hedorah is my favorite of that series, because it’s the most experimental. It’s like the Easy Rider of Godzilla movies.”
