Godzilla Minus Zero cast shares unforgettable memories of Hollywood premiere

TOKYO: The stars of Godzilla Minus Zero have shared memories of the enthusiastic response to their film at its Hollywood premiere as they reunited for a special appearance at the 39th Tokyo International Film Festival on Sunday, November 1.

TOKYO: The stars of Godzilla Minus Zero have shared memories of the enthusiastic response to their film at its Hollywood premiere as they reunited for a special appearance at the 39th Tokyo International Film Festival on Sunday, November 1.

Actors Ryunosuke Kamiki and Minami Hamabe who reprise their roles as Koichi Shikishima and Noriko in the sequel to Godzilla Minus One attended the Tokyo event just days after the film’s premiere at the TCL Chinese Theatre in Los Angeles.

Kamiki described the Hollywood screening as an unforgettable moment recalling that the audience gave the film a standing ovation that continued across the 900-seat theatre.

He said the audience’s reaction showed how strongly the iconic Japanese monster franchise is recognised and appreciated internationally. Experiencing that enthusiasm in person he added was particularly meaningful.

Hamabe also recalled the excitement at the premiere’s after-party where fans approached the cast to discuss the film. Some attendees wore Godzilla-inspired costumes and accessories adding to the celebratory atmosphere.

The actors were especially impressed by the reception given to director Takashi Yamazaki. Fans enthusiastically called out his name while he signed autographs, creating what Kamiki described as a roaring atmosphere rather than ordinary applause.

The Tokyo appearance also featured child actor Sae Nagatani who returns as Akiko Shikishima, the daughter of Koichi and Noriko. The event marked her first appearance on stage for the sequel.

Kamiki praised Nagatani’s work saying her character had limited dialogue in the previous film but was given a more substantial part in the new instalment. He recalled being impressed by how confidently she memorised and delivered her lines during filming.

Hamabe similarly praised the young performer noting her growth since the first movie and describing her as a reliable member of the cast.

Directed by Yamazaki Godzilla Minus Zero is set around two years after the events of Godzilla Minus One. The story follows the Shikishima family as they attempt to build an ordinary life before Godzilla returns as a new threat.

The previous film earned more than ¥7.65 billion at the Japanese box office and became the first Asian production to win the Academy Award for Best Visual Effects. The sequel is also the first Japanese film to receive the Filmed for IMAX certification.