The MonsterVerse franchise, known for its colossal kaiju clashes and spectacle-laden blockbusters, hits a high note with the film many fans may not realize actually set the stage for this cinematic universe. While “Godzilla vs. Kong” represents the most recent titanic tangle, the best MonsterVerse movie could very well be one that discreetly premiered 13 years prior: “Cloverfield.”

Released in 2008, “Cloverfield” follows a group of friends who find themselves documenting their survival in real-time as New York City is decimated by a colossal creature. Despite not being officially part of the MonsterVerse upon release, it embodies all the hallmarks of what would become central to this franchise — spectacular monster action rooted in human stories.

What sets “Cloverfield” apart is its pioneering use of found footage style storytelling, engendering an immersive and visceral viewing experience. The movie is shot as if by one of the characters, making audiences feel they’re navigating the chaos alongside the protagonists. This technique emphasizes the horror and destruction from a ground-level perspective, contrasting sharply with the more polished, omniscient viewpoints typically found in later MonsterVerse entries.

Director Matt Reeves helms this genre-defining movie, capitalizing on minimalist reveals and tension-building off-screen sounds to capture audience’s imaginations. The design of the Clover monster itself remains iconic, invoking Lovecraftian horror with its otherworldly appearance and incomprehensible scale.

“Cloverfield” also excels at viral marketing — a model that movies like “Godzilla” (2014) and “Kong: Skull Island” (2017) have followed — building intriguing mythos without divulging too much, provoking discussions and fan theories that enriched its narrative depth.

Though officially “Cloverfield” isn’t part of the same universe as “Godzilla vs. Kong,” its creative DNA is undeniably present throughout the MonsterVerse. Its covert influence has laid groundwork that shaped how stories of these titanic creatures are told — long before Godzilla ever rose from the depths or Kong was discovered on his skull-adorned island.

In conclusion, while it flies under the radar compared to flagship titles like “Godzilla vs. Kong,” “Cloverfield,” with its innovative approach and cult classic status, sneaks in as not only a foundational piece but arguably the best MonsterVerse movie — one that cleverly arrived over a decade before crossover battles became box office gold.