Books

‘The Art of Godzilla: King of the Monsters’ review

June 4, 2019

Up from the depths, The Art of Godzilla: King of the Monsters lets fans take a deep dive into the production of the new film. Written by Abbie Bernstein, with a forward by writer/director Michael Dougherty, this tome provides tons of insight into the designs of the monsters and the concepts behind the human cast.

If you’ve ever owned an “Art of” film book, you know what you’re getting here: lots and lots of concept art. For a Godzilla fan, the volume makes its case as a must-have in the opening pages, providing a nice spread that features Godzilla, Mothra, and Rodan charging forward into battle. The Easter egg hunting is part of the fun here — you can tell that the artists were having putting in as many monsters as possible. At least four additional classic Toho monsters make cameo appearances within these pages, and one turtle that (legally speaking) is probably Kamoebas, but I’m pretending he’s Gamera anyway.

Bernstein does a great job controlling a book that could easily burst apart. Normally these are dry tomes outside of the interviews with cast and crew, but Bernstein’s writing has a humorous tone that keeps the pages turning from one piece of artwork to another.

My one complaint about the book would also be a spoiler for the film, but I think it’s safe to say that something’s missing from the concept art and it would have been nice to have it.

Is It Good?

A hefty volume with pages upon pages of gorgeous concept art and behind-the-scenes interviews covering every monstrous detail, The Art of Godzilla: King of the Monsters is a must have for kaiju fans. Abbie Bernstein’s writing keeps the text in the volume moving at a quick pace, taking readers from one stunning piece to the next. Get this one for the Godzilla fan in your family!

The Art of Godzilla: King of the Monsters

Is it good?

A hefty book that will keep kaiju fans staring for long hours into the night, The Art of Godzilla: King of the Monsters is a delight.

You'll want these images of Godzilla, Mothra, Rodan, and Ghidorah all to yourself.

Abbie Bernstein's writing adds flavor and sets the pace for the volume. You never feel bogged down by the text.

Easter eggs abound for those with an eye for detail.

The book doesn't quite reveal everything from the film, including something that fans will probably wish was here.

Good

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