In a historic moment for the iconic Godzilla franchise, Toho Studio’s “Godzilla Minus One” secured its first-ever Oscar at the 96th Academy Awards, taking home the accolade for Best Visual Effects. The achievement is a fitting tribute to the franchise’s 70th anniversary this year and underscores the film’s remarkable success.
Director, writer, and visual effects supervisor Takashi Yamazaki, along with the talented team comprising Kiyoko Shibuya, Masaki Takahashi, and Tatsuji Nojima, accepted the award at the ceremony. Notably, they achieved this triumph within a production budget of less than $15 million, showcasing their prowess in delivering groundbreaking visual effects.
“Godzilla Minus One” had already earned acclaim by winning Best Picture at the Japanese Academy Film Prize, further solidifying its status as a cinematic masterpiece. The film’s success extended to the box office, where it shattered records, becoming the highest-grossing live-action Japanese film in the United States and the third-highest grossing foreign language release in U.S. history. Additionally, it stands as Toho’s highest-grossing film within the Godzilla franchise.
This victory at the Academy Awards marks a significant milestone for the Godzilla series and its enduring legacy. The film’s stunning visual effects, combined with its remarkable performance at the box office, affirm its place as a cultural phenomenon and a testament to the talent and dedication of the filmmaking team.
