Monsterverse: The Iwi People, Explained

Monsterverse: The Iwi People, Explained

As a longtime fan of the Monsterverse, I find the introduction of the Iwi people to be one of the most captivating elements in this new take on giant monster stories. Their deep connection to the world of Titans and the Hollow Earth adds a rich layer of history and depth to the franchise, making it stand out from its predecessors.


One intriguing feature of the Monsterverse is its uniformity. Prior to Legendary’s control, Godzilla and his crew had endless new and bizarre origins. Kaiju emerged from the earth, sea, sky, outer space, alternate realities, and everywhere in between. Now, the Monsterverse primarily adheres to the Hollow Earth theory. This concept, which draws upon ancient ideas, presents a civilization of humans residing within the Hollow Earth. These people, known as the Iwi, forged a bond with Kong.

As a gamer immersed in the world of giant monster movies, I can tell you from my perspective that human characters play a crucial role in adding depth to these epic battles between kaiju. In older Toho films, scientists, time travelers, and extraterrestrial beings were often brought in to shed light on the scientific aspects of the monstrous clashes and react to the devastation. However, I find the ancient tribe of Titan experts in the Monsterverse to be particularly engaging and valuable. These characters not only provide explanations for the unexplainable but also add an element of excitement and unpredictability to the franchise.

Where are the Iwi from?

Monsterverse: The Iwi People, Explained

The Indigenous people of the Iwi tribe originated deep within the Earth, referring to their home as the “Long Ago Underground.” Through unexplained methods, the Iwi population thrived amidst colossal monsters residing in this subterranean world. Noteworthy geological quirks characterize this underworld habitat, including unusual gravitational forces that enable inhabitants to walk on perceived floors and ceilings. An electric barrier encircles the Hollow Earth, creating a significant challenge for outsiders seeking entry or exit.

Long ago, an ancient and mighty Great Ape, named Skar King, discovered the world beyond the surface and developed an insatiable desire to dominate it. He gained infamy as the monarch of terror among his kind. With the enigmatic power of a radiant dagger, Skar King subjugated a formidable Titan named Shimo. Leveraging her abilities, he compelled all other apes to submit to his rule. Driven by a desire to freeze everything above the Earth’s core, Skar King urged Shimo to instigate a cataclysmic ice age. This audacious act set off a conflict between Godzilla’s kin and the Kongs. The Iwi tribe, who revered these Titans, were torn apart, as they engaged in an internal war. Godzilla and his followers emerged victorious, imprisoning Skar King, Shimo, and their subdued apes within the deepest volcanic caverns of the Hollow Earth. The Iwi tribe loyal to Godzilla continued dwelling beneath the surface, but some Kongs managed to break free and sought refuge on a secluded surface sanctuary called Skull Island. A few renegade Iwis accompanied them.

When did the Iwi meet outsiders?

A tiny group of Iwi people accompanied Kong’s companions when they emerged from beneath the surface many generations ago. In 1944, during a fierce air battle over the South Pacific, American pilot Hank Marlow and Japanese pilot Gunpei Ikari clashed in mid-air. Both pilots managed to shoot each other down, resulting in an unexpected landing on an unknown landmass. Upon arrival, the two adversaries tried to kill one another. Ikari came close to ending Marlow’s life, but Kong intervened, halting their violent encounter. Over the next three decades, Marlow and Ikari became the only outsiders ever to meet the Iwi community. Initially enemies, they later formed an unlikely friendship and lived together for years. Tragically, Ikari was killed during an attack by a vicious monster in 1973, but Marlow managed to survive for three decades more. It wasn’t until 1973 that a Monarch expedition discovered Skull Island and made contact with the Iwi people, bringing their existence to the attention of a select few within the intelligence community.

Where did the Iwi end up?

Monsterverse: The Iwi People, Explained

The indigenous people of Skull Island endured a devastating ordeal. They were abandoned by humanity, but still had to face the turmoil brought about by the Titans. The colossal bat Titan, Camazotz, instigated conflict with Kong on Skull Island. This confrontation marked the initial seismic activity on the island in centuries. Kong emerged victorious, yet not without consequence; Camazotz disrupted the weather patterns around the island. As a result, a perpetual storm ravaged Skull Island, annihilating or forcing out all its inhabitants. The sole survivor was young Jia, who was taken in by Ilene Andrews. In “Godzilla vs. Kong,” it is discovered that the last remnants of the Iwi reside securely within their underground sanctuary in the Hollow Earth. Once Godzilla and Kong unite to vanquish the Skull Crawler King, the Iwi tribe can resume their existence harmoniously. Jia even assumes the role of Mothra’s spokesperson.

The Iwi people hold a rich history and intriguing role in the Monsterverse narrative. Their connection to the Titans adds depth and intrigue to the franchise. Humans may find it challenging to fathom the behaviors of Godzilla and Kong, necessitating the guidance of experts. With their safety ensured, the Iwi continue to be a vital component of this series’ ecosystem.

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2024-07-16 19:05