The MonsterVerse, the cinematic universe that features Godzilla, King Kong, and other giant creatures, is expanding its horizons with a new television series. Monarch: Legacy of Monsters, which premieres on Apple TV+ on November 17, 2023, is a spin-off that explores the history and secrets of the organization that studies and protects the Titans.
A Family Saga Spanning Three Generations
Monarch: Legacy of Monsters follows the story of two siblings, Cate and Tim, who discover their family’s connection to Monarch after surviving the battle between Godzilla and the MUTOs in San Francisco. They travel to Japan to settle family affairs but instead uncover a mystery that leads them to Army officer Lee Shaw, who was involved in Monarch’s operations in the 1950s. The series will reveal how the events of the past and present affect the lives of the characters and the fate of the world.
The series stars Anna Sawai as Cate, a former schoolteacher who is determined to find answers, and Joe Tippett as Tim, her brother who is reluctant to get involved. They are joined by Kiersey Clemons as May, an American ex-pat who helps them navigate the world of monsters, and Ren Watabe as Kentaro, a young man who wants to learn more about his father, a revered Monarch scientist. The series also features Kurt Russell as Lee Shaw, a veteran who knows more than he lets on, and Wyatt Russell as his son, who follows in his footsteps. John Goodman reprises his role as Bill Randa, the founder of Monarch, from Kong: Skull Island.
A New Perspective on the MonsterVerse
Monarch: Legacy of Monsters is the second television series in the MonsterVerse, following Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire, which debuted on HBO Max in 2022. The series is created by Chris Black and Matt Fraction, who also serve as executive producers and writers. Black is the showrunner of the series, while Fraction is the head writer. The series is produced by Legendary Television, Safehouse Pictures, and Toho Co., Ltd.
The series aims to provide a new perspective on the MonsterVerse, by focusing on the human drama and the mythology behind the Titans. The series will feature Godzilla and other monsters, such as Mothra, Rodan, and King Ghidorah, as well as new ones, such as Biollante, Gigan, and Megalon. The series will also explore the origins and secrets of Monarch, the organization that has been at the center of the MonsterVerse since Godzilla (2014).
The series will also pay homage to the classic Godzilla films, by incorporating elements from the original Japanese series, such as the Oxygen Destroyer, the Shobijin, and the Hollow Earth. The series will also reference the events and characters from the previous MonsterVerse films, such as Godzilla (2014), Kong: Skull Island (2017), Godzilla: King of the Monsters (2019), and Godzilla vs. Kong (2021).
A Must-Watch for Monster Fans
Monarch: Legacy of Monsters is a must-watch for fans of the MonsterVerse and the Godzilla franchise, as it offers a deeper and richer exploration of the world of monsters and the people who live in it. The series promises to deliver thrilling action, compelling drama, and stunning visual effects, as it returns the MonsterVerse to its roots.
The series has received positive reviews from critics, who praised Kurt Russell’s performance, the visual effects, and the action sequences. The series has also generated a lot of buzz among fans, who are eager to see how the series will expand and connect the MonsterVerse.
Monarch: Legacy of Monsters will premiere on Apple TV+ on November 17, 2023, with 10 episodes. The series will be available to stream in 4K HDR and Dolby Atmos. The series will also have a companion podcast, Monarch: Legacy of Monsters – The Official Podcast, which will feature interviews with the cast and crew, behind-the-scenes stories, and exclusive content.
