The 45+ Best Movies With Giant Monsters

Ranker Film
Updated June 2, 2024 33.6K views 53 items
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782 voters
3 reranks
Latest additions: Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes, Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire, Godzilla: The Planet Eater
Most divisive: Eight Legged Freaks
Over 700 Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The 45+ Best Movies With Giant Monsters

Giant monsters have captured the fascination of film enthusiasts for generations. The best movies with giant monsters deliver a blend of thrilling action, awe-inspiring visuals, and compelling storytelling. These films can range from science fiction to fantasy, showcasing how diverse the monster movie category can be. With imposing creatures towering over cities and humanity fighting for survival, these cinematic masterpieces tap into our primal fears and fascinations, making them an essential part of the movie canon. 

The allure of monster films lies not only in their adrenaline-pumping action sequences but also in their ability to showcase complex themes, characters, and ideologies through the lens of fantastical creatures. The best movies with giant monsters are enriched by these elements, weaving nuanced narratives around the colossal battles that unfold on screen. The behemoth creatures become symbols of humanity's struggles, triumphs, and failures, adding depth to the thrilling spectacle of monster clashes. 

For instance, the ground-breaking 1933 classic, King Kong, seamlessly blends adventure, romance, and tragedy as it introduces the ape to the world. Godzilla (1954) transcends its roots as a simple monster movie, delving into the ramifications of nuclear warfare in post-war Japan. More recent examples like Pacific Rim expertly blend breathtaking CGI with imaginative world-building, a testament to the enduring appeal of giant monsters movies in modern cinema. These films represent just a fraction of the remarkable entries in this exciting genre. 

In essence, the best movies with giant monsters have left indelible marks on film history through their impressive visuals, innovative storytelling, and larger-than-life battles. These monumental films transport viewers to extraordinary worlds populated by colossal creatures, leaving audiences enthralled. While each movie showcases a unique approach to the genre, they all contribute to the timeless allure of giant monster films and their continuing power to enthrall and entertain viewers across generations. 

  • King Kong
    1
    Fay Wray, Bruce Cabot, Robert Armstrong
    255 votes

    Considered a pioneer in the realm of giant monster films, the 1933 classic King Kong tells the gripping story of an ambitious filmmaker who leads a team to the mysterious Skull Island, only to encounter a colossal ape-like creature named Kong. The movie masterfully combines adventure, romance, and horror elements to create a captivating experience for viewers. With groundbreaking stop-motion animation techniques used to bring Kong to life and its iconic finale atop the Empire State Building, this film has solidified its place as one of cinema's most enduring achievements.

  • Godzilla vs. King Ghidorah
    2
    Richard Berger, Robert Scott Field, Kent Gilbert
    169 votes

    In this thrilling installment of the Godzilla franchise, 1991's Godzilla vs. King Ghidorah pits the iconic radioactive reptile against one of his greatest foes. Time travelers from the future attempt to prevent Godzilla's creation, inadvertently unleashing the destructive three-headed dragon, King Ghidorah. The film expertly balances its science fiction elements with classic kaiju action and an engaging plot that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats. With its unforgettable battle sequences and remarkable special effects work, Godzilla vs. King Ghidorah serves as a testament to the enduring appeal of giant monster movies.

  • Tremors
    3
    Kevin Bacon, Fred Ward, Finn Carter
    189 votes

    The 1990 cult classic Tremors brings monstrous mayhem to small-town America with its terrifying subterranean creatures known as Graboids. Combining elements of horror, comedy, and western genres, this film provides an entertaining twist on traditional giant monster fare while boasting an engaging ensemble cast led by Kevin Bacon and Fred Ward. With suspenseful set pieces, memorable creature design, and quotable dialogue that resonates with fans decades later, Tremors remains a standout example of how creative storytelling can breathe new life into well-worn tropes.

  • Mothra vs. Godzilla
    4
    Akira Takarada, Yuriko Hoshi, Hiroshi Koisumi
    163 votes

    1964's Mothra vs. Godzilla pairs two of Toho's most popular kaiju in an epic clash for the ages. When Godzilla reawakens from his slumber, only the colossal moth deity Mothra stands a chance at defending humanity from the rampaging reptile. The film deftly balances its titanic battles with a human story that underscores themes of environmentalism and international cooperation. With its vibrant color palette, memorable score, and captivating creature designs, Mothra vs. Godzilla remains a fan-favorite entry in the kaiju canon.

  • Godzilla vs. Mechagodzilla
    5
    Masaaki Daimon, Kazuya Aoyama, Akihiko Hirata
    153 votes

    1974's Godzilla vs. Mechagodzilla introduced fans to one of the most formidable adversaries in the long-running series: a colossal robotic doppelganger built by space aliens intent on conquering Earth. The movie showcases inventive creature designs and impressive practical effects work, as well as incorporating Japanese mythology into its narrative for added depth and intrigue. This innovative entry in the iconic franchise offers viewers a thrilling and unique experience filled with high-stakes battles between two titanic forces.

  • Ghidorah, the Three-Headed Monster
    6
    Yosuke Natsuki, Yuriko Hoshi, Hiroshi Koizumi
    127 votes

    1964's Ghidorah, the Three-Headed Monster introduced audiences to one of Godzilla's most enduring adversaries: the fearsome King Ghidorah. Featuring an all-star monster lineup including Godzilla, Mothra, and Rodan, this film delivers thrilling action set pieces as it tells a story of unlikely alliances formed in the face of cosmic threats. Its blend of imaginative storytelling and expert special effects work have made Ghidorah, the Three-Headed Monster a beloved classic in both the kaiju genre and cinema history.

  • Them!
    7
    James Whitmore, Edmund Gwenn, Joan Weldon
    170 votes

    The 1954 sci-fi horror film Them! stands out among giant monster movies for its unique antagonists: mutated ants resulting from nuclear testing in New Mexico desert. As these colossal insects threaten to overrun civilization, a team of scientists and military personnel must work together to stop them. The expert use of suspense, atmosphere, and practical effects make Them! a standout entry in the creature feature genre and an engaging examination of post-World War II anxieties around nuclear weaponry.

  • Rodan
    8
    Kenji Sahara, Yumi Shirakawa, Akihiko Hirata
    143 votes

    Toho's 1956 film Rodan introduced audiences to another iconic kaiju: a colossal winged pterosaur capable of supersonic flight. When these enormous creatures emerge from deep within Japan's mines, it becomes clear that mankind has unwittingly awakened an ancient terror. With an evocative score by Akira Ifukube and groundbreaking special effects that bring its aerial battles to life, Rodan remains a thrilling and memorable entry in the pantheon of giant monster cinema.

  • King Kong
    9
    Naomi Watts, Jack Black, Adrien Brody
    257 votes

    The 1976 remake of King Kong, directed by John Guillermin and starring Jeff Bridges, Jessica Lange, and Charles Grodin, offers a contemporary spin on the classic tale while retaining its core themes of love, ambition, and human hubris. While criticized upon release for deviating from the original's period setting and certain narrative aspects, this updated version boasts cutting-edge special effects work for its time (including Rick Baker's impressive ape suit) along with strong performances from its cast. For those open to fresh interpretations of beloved classics, this incarnation provides new perspectives on familiar material without sacrificing the awe-inspiring spectacle associated with Kong's enduring legacy.

  • The Beast from 20,000 Fathoms
    10
    Paul Hubschmid, Paula Raymond, Cecil Kellaway
    126 votes

    This groundbreaking creature feature from 1953 tells the chilling story of a prehistoric beast unleashed by atomic bomb testing in the Arctic Circle. As it makes its way towards New York City leaving destruction in its wake, scientists race against time to find a way to stop it before catastrophe strikes. Featuring memorable stop-motion animation by legendary visual effects artist Ray Harryhausen and atmospheric direction by Eugène Lourié, The Beast from 20,000 Fathoms remains an influential entry in the giant monster genre that paved the way for future classics such as Godzilla.

  • Godzilla (2014)
    11
    Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Ken Watanabe, Elizabeth Olsen
    75 votes

    Director Gareth Edwards' ambitious 2014 reboot of Toho's beloved franchise introduces audiences to a new iteration of the iconic character while offering fresh perspectives on mankind's relationship with nature and its own destructive tendencies. As Godzilla rises from the depths to combat two parasitic creatures known as MUTOs (Massive Unidentified Terrestrial Organisms), humanity bears witness to both awe-inspiring destruction and humbling displays of power that underscore our place within the natural order.

  • Cloverfield
    12
    Michael Stahl-David, Mike Vogel, Odette Annable
    200 votes

    This innovative 2008 found footage film directed by Matt Reeves takes viewers on a harrowing journey through New York City under siege by an unknown giant monster. With its unique perspective and relentless pacing, Cloverfield captures the chaos and terror experienced by its characters as they struggle to survive amidst unimaginable destruction. Its inventive approach to storytelling combined with top-notch visual effects make it an unforgettable entry in the pantheon of giant monster movies.

  • Godzilla Millenium
    13
    Takehiro Murata, Shiro Sano, Hiroshi Abe
    126 votes

    Marking both a return to form and a fresh start for Toho's iconic series, 1999's Godzilla Millenium reboots the franchise by presenting a new origin story and design for its titular character while tackling timely topics such as genetic engineering and corporate greed. Featuring impressive practical effects work alongside modern CGI techniques, this thrilling reinvention offers longtime fans and newcomers alike a compelling reason to revisit (or discover) the world of kaiju cinema.

  • The Blob
    14
    Steve McQueen, Aneta Corsaut, Earl Rowe
    120 votes

    The quintessential 1950s B-movie creature feature, The Blob tells a chilling tale of an alien lifeform that consumes everything in its path as it grows uncontrollably. Starring a young Steve McQueen in his first leading role, the film expertly balances its horror premise with moments of humor and human drama. With its iconic monster and striking use of color, The Blob remains an enduring classic that continues to inspire filmmakers and captivate audiences today.

  • Mothra
    15
    Frankie Sakai, Hiroshi Koizumi, Kyoko Kagawa
    115 votes

    1961's Mothra marks the debut of one of Toho's most beloved kaiju: a colossal moth deity charged with protecting her tiny island home from outside threats. When unscrupulous businessmen exploit her people and steal her sacred egg, the creature takes flight to reclaim what is rightfully hers – even if it means laying waste to Japan's mainland cities. Combining lush visuals, engaging characters, and timeless themes of environmentalism and cultural preservation, Mothra stands as a captivating entry in the giant monster genre.

  • Godzilla vs. Mothra
    16
    Tetsuya Bessho, Satomi Kobayashi, Takehiro Murata
    130 votes

    In this 1992 installment of the long-running series, viewers are treated to an epic showdown between two titans of Japanese cinema: Godzilla and Mothra. As mankind becomes embroiled in a conflict over stolen treasures that awaken ancient forces on Earth, these powerful creatures must face off for supremacy while humanity scrambles to survive their clash. Featuring memorable battle sequences alongside compelling character drama, Godzilla vs. Mothra serves as another thrilling entry in one of cinema's most enduring franchises.

  • Pacific Rim
    17
    Charlie Hunnam, Diego Klattenhoff, Idris Elba
    193 votes

    Director Guillermo del Toro's love letter to giant monster movies, 2013's Pacific Rim, offers viewers an exhilarating blend of action-packed spectacle and heartfelt character drama set in a world under siege by gargantuan alien creatures known as Kaiju. As mankind fights back using colossal humanoid robots called Jaegers, pilots must confront both external threats and their own inner demons to save humanity from extinction. Boasting breathtaking visual effects work and a rousing score by Ramin Djawadi, Pacific Rim is an adrenaline-fueled thrill ride that reminds audiences why they fell in love with this genre in the first place.

  • Godzilla vs. Kong
    18
    Alexander Skarsgård, Millie Bobby Brown, Rebecca Hall
    38 votes

    The ultimate showdown between two titans of cinema unfolds in 2021's Godzilla vs. Kong, pitting Toho's iconic radioactive reptile against Hollywood's legendary ape king in an epic battle for supremacy. Directed by Adam Wingard and featuring stunning visual effects work alongside thrilling action set pieces, this blockbuster extravaganza offers viewers a high-stakes clash for the ages while exploring deeper themes of humanity's relationship with nature and its own hubris.

  • Mighty Joe Young
    19
    Terry Moore, Ben Johnson, Robert Armstrong
    122 votes

    This heart-warming 1949 film tells the story of a giant gorilla named Joe who forms a deep bond with the woman who raised him from infancy. When unscrupulous showmen exploit this gentle giant for profit, the pair must find a way to elude their captors and protect each other from harm. Featuring groundbreaking special effects work by animation pioneer Willis O'Brien (who also worked on the original King Kong) and a touching tale of friendship, Mighty Joe Young remains an enduring classic that showcases the emotional depth possible within the creature feature genre.

  • The Lost World
    20
    Michael Rennie, Jill St. John, Claude Rains
    125 votes

    One of cinema's earliest excursions into fantastical realms filled with prehistoric creatures, 1925's silent film adaptation of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's novel The Lost World takes viewers on an awe-inspiring journey through time as intrepid explorers discover a hidden plateau populated by dinosaurs and other ancient beasts. With groundbreaking stop-motion animation by pioneering visual effects artist Willis O'Brien (who would later work on King Kong), this seminal adventure serves as both an important milestone in giant monster movie history and a testament to human ingenuity in bringing these incredible spectacles to life.

  • Godzilla: King of the Monsters
    21
    Kyle Chandler, Vera Farmiga, Millie Bobby Brown
    65 votes

    2019's Godzilla: King of the Monsters serves as a thrilling continuation of Toho's iconic franchise in Hollywood, pitting its titular character against an array of classic kaiju adversaries such as Rodan, Mothra, and King Ghidorah. As mankind wrestles with the consequences of awakening these ancient titans, alliances form to ensure survival in the face of unimaginable destruction. Featuring stunning visual effects work and a rousing score by Bear McCreary, this exhilarating entry in the Godzilla saga offers viewers both spectacle and substance.

  • The Iron Giant
    22
    Jennifer Aniston, Eli Marienthal, Harry Connick
    129 votes

    This animated gem directed by Brad Bird tells the touching tale of a young boy named Hogarth who befriends an enormous alien robot stranded on Earth during the height of Cold War paranoia in 1950s America. As they navigate their way through a world that fears what it doesn't understand, they discover the true meaning of friendship and heroism amidst adversity. Boasting beautiful hand-drawn animation and timeless themes that resonate with audiences young and old alike, The Iron Giant stands as a heart-wrenching tribute to both classic science fiction cinema and our shared humanity.

  • The War of the Gargantuas
    23
    Russ Tamblyn, Kenji Sahara, Kumi Mizuno
    186 votes

    This 1966 Toho production pits two enormous humanoid creatures – one benevolent, one malevolent – against each other in a titanic struggle for dominance. As these colossal beings wreak havoc across Japan's cities and countryside, humanity must grapple with the consequences of its own scientific arrogance while trying to determine which gargantua represents a greater threat. With its engaging blend of thrilling kaiju action and thought-provoking themes, The War of the Gargantuas offers viewers an unforgettable experience that leaves a lasting impression long after the credits roll.

  • Godzilla vs. Megalon
    24
    Katsuhiko Sasaki, Hiroyuki Kawase, Yutaka Hayashi
    107 votes

    In this 1973 installment of Toho's long-running series, Godzilla faces off against Megalon, a powerful insectoid monster unleashed upon humanity by an underground civilization seeking revenge for Earth's surface-dwelling inhabitants' environmental transgressions. Teaming up with robotic ally Jet Jaguar to save humankind from annihilation, Godzilla must overcome insurmountable odds while showcasing his trademark strength and cunning. With its colorful visuals, memorable battle sequences, and inventive creature designs, Godzilla vs. Megalon remains a beloved classic among fans for its charming blend of camp and action-packed spectacle.

  • King Kong
    25
    Jeff Bridges, Jessica Lange, Charles Grodin
    59 votes

    The 1976 remake of King Kong, directed by John Guillermin and starring Jeff Bridges, Jessica Lange, and Charles Grodin, offers a contemporary spin on the classic tale while retaining its core themes of love, ambition, and human hubris. While criticized upon release for deviating from the original's period setting and certain narrative aspects, this updated version boasts cutting-edge special effects work for its time (including Rick Baker's impressive ape suit) along with strong performances from its cast. For those open to fresh interpretations of beloved classics, this incarnation provides new perspectives on familiar material without sacrificing the awe-inspiring spectacle associated with Kong's enduring legacy.

  • 20 Million Miles to Earth
    26
    William Hopper, Joan Taylor, Frank Puglia
    97 votes

    Another masterful collaboration between director Nathan Juran and special effects legend Ray Harryhausen, 1957's 20 Million Miles to Earth tells the story of an alien creature inadvertently brought back from Venus by astronauts returning to Earth. As it grows exponentially larger and more dangerous, scientists and military personnel must find a way to stop it before disaster ensues. Boasting pioneering stop-motion animation techniques that bring its unusual protagonist to life, this influential entry in giant monster cinema remains an entertaining example of what can be achieved through creativity and ingenuity.

  • Clash of the Titans
    27
    Sam Worthington, Liam Neeson, Ralph Fiennes
    83 votes

    This 1981 fantasy epic directed by Desmond Davis follows the mythical hero Perseus as he journeys through ancient Greece battling various giant monsters such as Medusa, Calibos (a were-lizard), and the fearsome Kraken. With its impressive special effects work helmed by Ray Harryhausen, Clash of the Titans serves as a thrilling tribute to classical mythology and an enduring classic within the genre of giant monster movies.

  • Gamera
    28
    Eiji Funakoshi, Harumi Kiritachi, Junichiro Yamashita
    97 votes

    This iconic Japanese kaiju makes his debut in 1965's Gamera, telling the story of a colossal turtle-like creature with a penchant for consuming fire awakened from millennia-long slumber beneath the Arctic ice. As it rampages across Japan, humanity must find a way to stop it before untold destruction is unleashed upon the world. With its engaging blend of action, suspense, and memorable creature design, Gamera remains a fan-favorite entry in the annals of giant monster cinema.

  • Rampage
    29

    Rampage

    Dwayne Johnson, Naomie Harris, Malin Akerman
    61 votes

    Based on the popular video game series, 2018's Rampage stars Dwayne Johnson as a primatologist who teams up with a genetically enhanced albino gorilla named George to combat other monstrous creatures that threaten humanity's existence. Boasting top-notch visual effects and thrilling action set pieces, this high-stakes adventure offers viewers an entertaining romp filled with pulse-pounding spectacle and heartwarming moments between man and beast.

  • Godzilla Minus One
    30
    Ryûnosuke Kamiki, Minami Hamabe, Munetaka Aoki
    8 votes

    A lesser-known gem within Toho's extensive catalog is 1999's Godzilla Minus One, which explores an alternate reality where mankind has nearly eradicated Earth's giant monsters through advanced technology. When a new threat emerges from deep space, humanity must turn to their former enemy – a weakened and isolated Godzilla – for salvation. This thought-provoking tale offers viewers unexpected depth and nuance while still delivering on spectacle with impressive special effects work showcasing massive battles between titans.

  • Eight Legged Freaks
    31
    David Arquette, Kari Wuhrer, Scott Terra
    92 votes

    This entertaining 2002 horror-comedy directed by Ellory Elkayem tells the story of a sleepy Arizona town besieged by an army of gigantic mutant spiders resulting from toxic waste exposure. With its engaging ensemble cast led by David Arquette and Scarlett Johansson, Eight Legged Freaks provides viewers with a thrilling blend of tongue-in-cheek humor and hair-raising spectacle that pays loving homage to classic creature features from decades past.

  • Wrath of the Titans
    32
    Sam Worthington, Liam Neeson, Ralph Fiennes
    63 votes

    This 2012 sequel to Clash of the Titans continues the story of Perseus as he journeys through ancient Greece to rescue his father, Zeus, from the clutches of Hades and Ares. Along the way, he faces off against various giant monsters such as the fearsome Cyclopes and the monstrous Chimera. Boasting state-of-the-art visual effects and adrenaline-fueled action sequences, Wrath of the Titans offers fans an entertaining follow-up filled with mythological mayhem.

  • Godzilla (1998)
    33
    Matthew Broderick, Jean Reno, Maria Pitillo
    55 votes

    Immersing viewers in a world of colossal destruction, 1998's Godzilla offers an unparalleled spectacle portraying the immense power and havoc wreaked by giant monsters. With its groundbreaking visual effects and exhilarating action sequences, this film redefined the genre for modern audiences. Director Roland Emmerich masterfully crafts a suspense-filled atmosphere, placing a reimagined Godzilla at the center of a high-stakes battle for survival against humanity's desperate efforts to save their city from ruin. Seamlessly blending elements of science fiction and disaster films, Godzilla delivers an adrenaline-fueled viewing experience that both pays homage to and revitalizes the classic monster movie format.

  • The Host
    34
    Song Kang-ho, Byun Hee-bong, Park Hae-il
    88 votes

    Korean director Bong Joon-ho's critically acclaimed 2006 film The Host combines elements of horror, comedy, and family drama in its tale of a dysfunctional clan caught up in a crisis involving a giant monster that emerges from Seoul's Han River. As they navigate both personal struggles and overwhelming danger posed by this menacing creature, viewers are treated to an engrossing mix of suspenseful set pieces, memorable character development, and poignant explorations of societal issues that resonate on a global scale.

  • The Mysterious Island
    35
    Lionel Barrymore, Jacqueline Gadsdon, Lloyd Hughes
    85 votes

    This 1961 film adaptation of Jules Verne's novel follows a group of Civil War-era castaways who find themselves stranded on an uncharted island populated by various prehistoric creatures such as giant birds, bees, and crabs. Inspired by both Verne's imaginative storytelling and Ray Harryhausen's groundbreaking special effects work on The Beast from 20,000 Fathoms, director Cy Endfield crafts an entertaining adventure filled with wonderous sights and thrilling encounters that showcase both human ingenuity and our enduring fascination with Earth's mysterious past.

  • Beowulf
    36
    Ray Winstone, Anthony Hopkins, Angelina Jolie
    51 votes

    In this 2007 film adaptation of the Old English epic poem, director Robert Zemeckis utilizes groundbreaking motion capture technology to bring its legendary characters and fantastical settings to life. As the titular hero battles various giant monsters such as the fearsome Grendel and his monstrous mother, viewers are treated to an immersive blend of action, romance, and mythological drama that transports them to another time and place where heroes walk among gods and beasts alike.

  • Jack the Giant Killer
    37
    Kerwin Mathews, Judi Meredith, Torin Thatcher
    30 votes

    1962's Jack the Giant Killer, directed by Nathan Juran and inspired by classic fairy tales like Jack and the Beanstalk, follows a courageous young farmer who embarks on a perilous quest to rescue a princess kidnapped by an evil sorcerer. Along the way, he faces off against various enormous adversaries including a two-headed giant named Cormoran and a fire-breathing dragon called Pendragon. With its imaginative special effects work helmed by Ray Harryhausen protege Jim Danforth, this fantastical adventure remains an enduring testament to human ingenuity in bringing larger-than-life stories to the silver screen.

  • Tarantula
    38
    John Agar, Mara Corday, Leo G. Carroll
    31 votes

    This 1955 sci-fi horror film directed by Jack Arnold tells the story of a small desert town menaced by a colossal arachnid resulting from scientific experiments gone awry. With its atmospheric black-and-white visuals, suspenseful pacing, and memorable creature design, Tarantula offers viewers an engaging example of how innovative storytelling can breathe new life into familiar tropes while providing spine-chilling entertainment for generations to come.

  • Attack of the 50 Foot Woman
    39
    Allison Hayes, William Hudson, Yvette Vickers
    70 votes

    This iconic 1958 B-movie directed by Nathan Hertz tells the story of a wealthy socialite who grows to enormous proportions after encountering an alien spacecraft in the Californian desert. As she seeks revenge on those who have wronged her – including her philandering husband and his mistress – viewers are treated to a campy blend of sci-fi, horror, and domestic drama that has captivated audiences for generations. With its memorable title character and striking use of scale in its visual effects work, Attack of the 50 Foot Woman remains an enduring classic within the genre of giant monster movies.

  • Frankenstein Conquers the World
    40
    Nick Adams, Tadao Takashima, Kumi Mizuno
    71 votes

    In this unique 1965 crossover between Toho's kaiju films and Mary Shelley's iconic creation, a living heart from Frankenstein's monster is discovered by Japanese scientists during World War II. As it grows into a towering humanoid creature due to exposure to atomic radiation, it must face off against another giant monster known as Baragon while grappling with its own identity and purpose in a world that fears what it doesn't understand. With its inventive premise and captivating creature designs, Frankenstein Conquers the World offers fans an intriguing exploration of both literary horror icons and larger-than-life monsters.

  • Jack the Giant Slayer
    41
    Nicholas Hoult, Eleanor Tomlinson, Ewan McGregor
    33 votes

    This 2013 reimagining of classic fairy tale narratives such as Jack and the Beanstalk offers viewers an action-packed spectacle filled with colossal adversaries and breathtaking visuals. Starring Nicholas Hoult as the titular hero who unwittingly unleashes a race of giants upon humanity, director Bryan Singer crafts an engaging adventure that transports audiences to a fantastical realm where courage, cunning, and heart can overcome even the most insurmountable obstacles.

  • Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire
    42
    Rebecca Hall, Brian Tyree Henry, Dan Stevens
    1 votes
    Godzilla and the almighty Kong face a colossal threat hidden deep within the planet, challenging their very existence and the survival of the human race.
  • Prophecy
    43
    Talia Shire, Robert Foxworth, Armand Assante
    59 votes

    Director John Frankenheimer's 1979 eco-horror film Prophecy tells the story of a monstrous mutated bear wreaking havoc on a remote forest community following industrial pollution that disrupts local ecosystems. As tensions rise between environmentalists, loggers, and Native American tribes vying for control over resources in this contested area, this terrifying creature serves as both a potent symbol for humanity's environmental transgressions and an unforgettable antagonist within the genre of giant monster movies.

  • Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind
    44
    Shia LaBeouf, Alison Lohman, Patrick Stewart
    50 votes

    This 1984 animated masterpiece by legendary filmmaker Hayao Miyazaki tells the story of a courageous princess named Nausicaä who embarks on a quest to save her people from an onslaught of monstrous insects called Ohmu. Combining breathtaking hand-drawn animation with imaginative world-building and poignant themes exploring humanity's relationship with nature, this influential film serves as both an enduring classic within the genre of giant monster movies and a testament to Miyazaki's visionary storytelling talents.

  • Daimajin
    45

    Daimajin

    Miwa Takada, Yoshihiko Aoyama, Jun Fujimaki
    50 votes

    This unique 1966 entry in the kaiju genre combines elements of Japanese folklore and historical drama with traditional creature feature tropes, telling the story of a vengeful stone statue that comes to life to punish those who have oppressed its worshippers. With its captivating blend of high-stakes human drama and awe-inspiring special effects work, Daimajin offers viewers an intriguing departure from standard fare while showcasing Toho's versatility in crafting engaging stories featuring larger-than-life monsters.

  • Godzilla: Planet of the Monsters
    46
    Mamoru Miyano, Takahiro Sakurai, Kana Hanazawa
    2 votes

    In this groundbreaking 2017 animated film produced by Toho Animation and Polygon Pictures, humanity must contend with a futuristic world overrun by giant monsters led by their arch-nemesis, Godzilla. As they seek to reclaim Earth from these colossal creatures, they discover new allies and face insurmountable odds in their desperate quest for salvation. Boasting stunning visuals and an engaging plot that delves deep into the franchise's mythos, Godzilla: Planet of the Monsters serves as both a fresh start and loving tribute to one of cinema's most enduring characters.

  • Godzilla: The Planet Eater
    47
    Mamoru Miyano, Takahiro Sakurai, Kana Hanazawa
    2 votes
    The powerful, three-headed Ghidorah threatens to destroy the world.
  • Earth vs. the Spider
    48
    Ed Kemmer, June Kenney, Eugene Persson
    61 votes

    Bert I. Gordon's campy 1958 creature feature spins a web of suspense and terror as a small town faces an enormous arachnid that's awakened from its subterranean slumber by rock-and-roll vibrations. As the colossal spider wreaks havoc on unsuspecting townsfolk, it falls upon a group of plucky teens to find a way to stop it before it consumes everything in its path. With its engaging mix of sci-fi, horror, and teen drama elements, Earth vs. the Spider remains an enduring testament to the power of imagination within the realm of giant monster cinema.

  • Night of the Lepus
    49
    Stuart Whitman, Janet Leigh, Rory Calhoun
    64 votes

    In this oft-overlooked cult classic from 1972, director William F. Claxton takes viewers on a thrilling ride through small-town America under siege by rampaging rabbits mutated to enormous proportions following scientific experiments gone awry. As these colossal cottontails terrorize local residents and destroy crops, it falls upon intrepid scientists played by Stuart Whitman and Janet Leigh to find a way to stop them before their insatiable appetite for destruction consumes everything in their path. With its memorable premise and charming B-movie sensibilities, Night of the Lepus remains an entertaining example of how creativity can triumph over limited resources when bringing giant monster stories to life.

  • Mandibles
    50
    Grégoire Ludig, David Marsais, Adèle Exarchopoulos
    11 votes

    This 2016 French comedy-horror film directed by Quentin Dupieux offers viewers an offbeat twist on traditional creature feature fare by focusing on two dim-witted friends who discover a giant fly trapped in their car trunk and decide to train it for their own nefarious purposes. As they navigate various misadventures while attempting to control this monstrous insect, audiences are treated to a blend of absurd humor and surreal imagery that makes Mandibles an unforgettable entry in the pantheon of giant monster movies.

  • Mosquito
    51
    Gunnar Hansen, Ron Asheton, Steve Dixon
    60 votes

    The 1995 indie horror film Mosquito tells the electrifying tale of a swarm of gigantic blood-sucking insects that terrorize rural America after feeding on the corpses of aliens killed in a UFO crash. Combining low-budget special effects with tongue-in-cheek humor and plenty of gore, director Gary Jones crafts an entertaining B-movie experience filled with campy fun and thrilling set pieces that cater to fans of both creature features and late-night schlockfests.

  • Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes
    52
    Owen Teague, Freya Allan, Kevin Durand
    0 votes
    Many years after the reign of Caesar, a young ape goes on a journey that will lead him to question everything he's been taught about the past and make choices that will define a future for apes and humans alike.
  • Godzilla: City on the Edge of Battle
    53
    Kana Hanazawa, Ken'yû Horiuchi, Yuki Kaji
    3 votes

    The second installment in Toho's animated Godzilla trilogy, 2018's Godzilla: City on the Edge of Battle, continues humanity's desperate struggle against Earth's ultimate kaiju threat while exploring new alliances formed amidst apocalyptic devastation. Featuring stunning animation work combined with thought-provoking themes of survival and sacrifice, this thrilling entry in the Godzilla saga showcases the enduring appeal of giant monster movies across different mediums and storytelling formats.