Oscar buzz grows for ‘Godzilla’ ahead of ‘Ramayana’ clash

Takashi Yamazaki’s ‘Godzilla Minus Zero’ is generating strong buzz ahead of its theatrical release, with the sequel currently scoring 97% on Rotten Tomatoes from early reviews.The film that premiered at the New York Film Festival, has been praised for its scale, visual effects and emotional storytelling.

'Godzilla Minus Zero' tipped to earn Best Picture Oscar nod

The film follows Yamazaki’s 2023 blockbuster ‘Godzilla Minus One’, which made history by becoming the first film in the Godzilla franchise to win an Oscar, taking home the Best Visual Effects trophy. Now, with all the positive buzz, word has spread about the film potentially becoming a front-runner for a Best Picture nomination.

Takashi Yamazaki on 'Godzilla' striking gold at Oscars

Speaking at the film’s New York Film Festival premiere, Yamazaki was asked about the possibility of the movie scoring an Academy Award in the top category. “I mean, I try not to think about that. And this was true of ‘Godzilla Minus One’ as well. We had no idea we were going to get Best VFX, or even be nominated. Even a nomination was already a win for us with ‘Godzilla Minus One.’ So I try not to think about it, but at the same time, if the possibility is not zero, it’s hard not to have a little bit of hope,” he told Variety.

‘Godzilla Minus Zero’ is already among Variety’s predicted contenders for a Best Visual Effects nomination, alongside ‘Dune: Part Three’, ‘Project Hail Mary’, ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’ and ‘Wildwood’. The final list of the nominees will not be announced until January 21, 2027.

‘Godzilla Minus Zero’ vs ‘Ramayana’

The strong reception has also intensified interest in the film’s upcoming box office battle with Nitesh Tiwari’s ‘Ramayana’. Both films have been scheduled for release around the same November 6 weekend window.

Both films are also expected to compete for premium-format screens, including IMAX.‘Godzilla Minus Zero’ is scheduled for a November 6 theatrical release in North America, while ‘Ramayana’ has also been announced for a November 6 worldwide release, however, reports indicate that its overseas release could be advanced by a day or two, allowing for the film to get a head start at the box office.According to reports, both films are listed on IMAX for its 2026 release slate. However, while 'Godzilla' will have an 'R' rating, significantly impacting audience, 'Ramayana' is rumoured to be eyeing a 'U/A' rating.