Amazing, super realistic special effects aside, this movie is very good.

Unlike many of the sequels, remakes, and parodies, this one takes itself pretty seriously. I know everyone points it out, but if you didn't know already, this movie is about nuclear repercussions. I think this makes for a really good reaction to the current state of it all back in 1954.

When you see something so obviously dangerous, you react more than just some Bill Nigh the Science Guy talking about the danger. The story makes for a great vessel of how to discuss safety as a society.

The general plot also involves pretty good character relationships, and how they all feel this Godzilla guy should be stopped. I like seeing the need to stop Godzilla, but also the uneasiness of killing Godzilla. When is it okay to kill an animal doing as it is bred to do?

I'd say whenever it is going on a deadly rampage.