No, you didn’t accidentally step into a time machine. Shin Godzilla (2016) is indeed returning to the big screen—and this time, exclusively for the North American market. That means you, the good ol’ US of A, and your neighbors up north.
Unlike nine years ago, this won’t be a limited theatrical release. Even better, it’s a 4K remaster. This marks the first time the film has been officially upgraded to 4K resolution for theatrical and home release outside of Japan.
So, why re-release it on the ninth anniversary? Well, because GKids has snagged the North American distribution rights, and so, it’s kind of a celebratory screening. I guess?
Anyhoo, for those who don’t already know, GKids was acquired by Toho in 2024, and this 4K Shin Godzilla is the first Godzilla-related release under their belt since the acquisition. Also, for the uninitiated, GKIDS is an American animated film distributor.
Just to recap: Shin Godzilla was the take on the iconic franchise by Hideaki Anno, creator of Neon Genesis Evangelion, and Shinji Higuchi. It premiered in 2016 to much acclaim.
Here’s the official synopsis:
“Something has surfaced in Tokyo Bay. As the Prime Minister of Japan pleads with the public to remain calm, a horrific creature of tremendous size makes landfall in the city, leaving death and destruction in its wake. Then it evolves. The government assembles a motley task force to combat the monster when an envoy from the US Department of State delivers a folder of classified documents. On its cover is written: ‘GODZILLA.’
From visionary directors Hideaki Anno and Shinji Higuchi, Shin Godzilla offers a thrilling origin story to one of cinema’s greatest creations. Propelled by astounding visual effects and rapid-fire dialogue, Shin Godzilla is equal parts pulse-pounding action film and venomous political satire, worthy of the franchise’s towering history.”
The Shin Godzilla 4K is set for August 14, 2025, release, and will feature the original Japanese language with English subtitles, along with restored text cards. Meanwhile, here’s the official teaser trailer:
Images: GKids.
