Godzilla vs. Kong: The New Empire thrilled audiences upon its release in March 2024. Dominating the US Box Office with a global revenue of $361.1 million, the film exceeded Warner Bros.' expectations. The star-studded cast includes Rebecca Hall, Dan Stevens, Brian Tyree Henry, Kaylee Hottle, and the iconic Godzilla and King Kong.
This high-budget sequel to 2021's Godzilla vs. Kong is a part of the MonsterVerse franchise, helmed by director Adam Wingard. The storyline showcases the mighty Kong facing off against the fearsome Godzilla, who must eventually unite to combat a colossal hidden threat within their realm.
Unveiling the Plot of Godzilla vs. Kong: The New Empire
The narrative unfolds three years post-Kong's victory over Mechagodzilla and the dismantling of Apex cybernetics. Establishing his domain in the Hollow Earth, Kong seeks out his kind while Godzilla maintains peace between humanity and the Titans. Meanwhile, Godzilla eliminates Scylla in Rome and later rests in the Colosseum.
A Monarch outpost in the Hollow Earth detects an enigmatic signal, triggering unsettling visions for Jia, the last survivor of the Iwi tribe. Dr. Ilene Andrews, Jia's guardian, grows concerned as Godzilla reacts to the signal, leaving Rome to absorb radiation from a French nuclear plant before heading to the Arctic. Monarch suspects Godzilla is preparing for an impending threat.
When Kong uncovers a new territory near his home, he encounters a surviving tribe member named Suko, embarking on a journey together. The Skar King, the tribe's leader, deploys Shimo, an ancient ice-powered Titan, to battle Kong using a controlling crystal. Despite sustaining injuries, Kong escapes with Suko's aid.
Ilene, Jia, Trapper, and podcaster Bernie venture into the Hollow Earth to trace the signal, finding the Monarch outpost destroyed. They locate a temple housing a telepathic Iwi tribe, deciphering the distress signal sent by them. Hieroglyphics reveal a history where Godzilla thwarted the Skar King's conquest, now hinting at Jia's role in awakening Mothra. Kong equips himself with an exoskeletal brace, anticipating the impending threat.
Unraveling the Climactic Ending of Godzilla vs. Kong: The New Empire
Kong and Godzilla unite after a monumental battle at the pyramids, interrupted by Mothra. The ensuing chaos in Rio de Janeiro sees the kaijus confronting the Skar King in the Hollow Earth. Trapper rallies reinforcements, leading to a fierce confrontation resulting in the Skar King's defeat.
Shimo aids in neutralizing the Skar King, allowing Kong to emerge victorious. The alliance of Godzilla, Kong, and others shatters the crystal controlling Shimo, freeing her. Godzilla and Kong part ways, with Kong returning to the Hollow Earth alongside Baby Kong and Shimo.
Survivors regroup, with Jia expressing solidarity with her adoptive mother in their newfound home. Meanwhile, Godzilla resumes rest in Rome as Mothra awakens to aid in the battle against the Skar King.
Critical Reception of Godzilla vs. Kong: The New Empire Ending
Godzilla vs. Kong: The New Empire has garnered diverse reviews, with a 54% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. While critics offer mixed perspectives, audiences have embraced the monster showdown, reflecting a 94% approval rating.