Earlier this week both Warner Bros. and Legendary have confirmed that they will be creating a cinematic universe in which all of the classic Hollywood monsters exist. Following the trend that Marvel seemed to have unleashed on the film industry, both studios are teaming up in hopes to create a more cohesive universe. For those who remember the last time we got to see a Godzilla vs King Kong it was in a movie of the same name in 1963, so this is has been a long time coming. Though it should come as no surprise that both studios are collaborating as Marvel alone has proven the success of a shared universe, with various franchises trying to hop on that same train. (See Hitman: Agent 47 and Dracula Untold)
A press release was given by the two studios outlining the idea and shedding a little bit of light onto the subject itself. “All-powerful monsters become towering heroes for a new generation, revealing a mythology that brings together Godzilla and Legendary’s King Kong in an ecosystem of other giant super-species, both classic and new. Monarch, the human organization that uncovered Godzilla in the 2014 film, will expand their mission across multiple releases.” Okay, that sounds awesome but seriously Monarch? Didn’t you guys learn your lesson last time this happened? No? Okay. Legendary also has the rights to some of Godzilla’s most famous foes including Mothra, King Ghidorah, and Rodan.
It should also be noted that three films will start this franchise, kicking off with 2017’s Kong: Skull Island, with Godzilla 2 (2018), and ending with Godzilla vs. Kong in 2020. Kong: Skull Island is set to go into production on the 19th of October and will feature major actors Tom Hiddleston, John Goodman, Samuel Jackson, and Brie Larson. While I am typically skeptical about studios always pushing this shared universe concept, Godzilla, and King Kong seem like a perfect fit. It will be truly interesting to see what direction they take these franchises, given the mixed reception of the latest Godzilla film.
What do you think of Legendary and Warner Bros. move? Are you excited or worried for a shared universe? Who’s gonna win this fight?! Sound of below!
