Picked up the remastered version recently released. It has the Japanese and American versions of the film. I watched the longer Japanese version which is oh so much better. Gone is the stupid narration. The voices actually match the characters and don't come off dopey. There are also scenes with silences, something the American version seemed afraid to have. I used to think this was a dull and boring film, but it actually held my attention this time out, even when my brother was kibitzing to get me to go shopping with him. If you like these sort of movies and get the chance watch this in Japanese and see it for the first time. (FYI- the new remasters do not allow toggling between versions because the Japanese versions are usually longer, even by a minute or two than the Americans so you can only see the differences by watching the versions back to back.)
114 Reviews
Classic Japanese monster film
Splatterdome-AMH9 January 2002
The Two pilots Kobayashi and Tsukioka must land on a remote Pacific Island and become witnesses of the fight between two giant monsters. After the battle, they both disappear into the ocean. Tsukioka informs scientists (including Dr. Yamane from the first "Godzilla" film) and the army about Godzilla and an unknown monster that looks like a prehistoric Ankylosaurus. The new monster therefor is named Angilas. Meanwhile, some bandits escape near Osaka and cause a car crash that is followed by large explosions. The fire attracts Godzilla to Osaka. The Japanese army tries to stop the monster using tanks, missiles and the air force. Then Angilas shows up too! The two monsters fight each other in the middle of the city in a brutal battle which is won by Godzilla. In order to stop him, the Osaka Defense Corps (and the two friends Kobayashi and Tsukioka) follow Godzilla to a snowy island near Hokkaido in northern Japan. Many pilots die in the final battle against the monster, as the army tries to cause an avalanche to bury Godzilla...
This is the little-known second film of the legendary Japanese Godzilla series, and the last that was filmed in black & white. It lacks, of course, most of the metaphoric meaning the first film had and is just a very entertaining, classic monster movie. The beautiful music score was composed by Masaru Satô, the favourite composer of Akira Kurosawa. It sounds a bit like a softer version of Akira Ifukube's great theme music for the first film. Like in the first "Godzilla", the black & white photography adds to the plausibility of the special effects, therefor they work really good most of the time. Probably the biggest problem with the effects is that the monsters move by far too fast in their fight scenes. But fortunately "Gojira no gyakushû" was the only Japanese monster movie ever to use this technique. Please note that this commentary is based on the original, uncut Japanese version of the film which really is the ONLY way to see it!! The American version is badly dubbed, has half of the movie cut out, inserts new scenes that don't make ANY sense, and has special effects footage stolen from other movies... it's just total crap. Everybody who is interested in seeing this film should look for the Japanese version, it's definitely worth the effort. Unfortunately, it is probably very hard to find. Despite the success of the film in Japan, the next "Godzilla" movie was not made for seven years.
This is the little-known second film of the legendary Japanese Godzilla series, and the last that was filmed in black & white. It lacks, of course, most of the metaphoric meaning the first film had and is just a very entertaining, classic monster movie. The beautiful music score was composed by Masaru Satô, the favourite composer of Akira Kurosawa. It sounds a bit like a softer version of Akira Ifukube's great theme music for the first film. Like in the first "Godzilla", the black & white photography adds to the plausibility of the special effects, therefor they work really good most of the time. Probably the biggest problem with the effects is that the monsters move by far too fast in their fight scenes. But fortunately "Gojira no gyakushû" was the only Japanese monster movie ever to use this technique. Please note that this commentary is based on the original, uncut Japanese version of the film which really is the ONLY way to see it!! The American version is badly dubbed, has half of the movie cut out, inserts new scenes that don't make ANY sense, and has special effects footage stolen from other movies... it's just total crap. Everybody who is interested in seeing this film should look for the Japanese version, it's definitely worth the effort. Unfortunately, it is probably very hard to find. Despite the success of the film in Japan, the next "Godzilla" movie was not made for seven years.
the English language version is a catastrophe, but the original uncut Japanese print has something more
TheUnknown837-19 July 2007
Perhaps the real reason why "Godzilla Raids Again" is not as popular as the first film of the series is because most people are more familiar with the butchered and dubbed English version titled "Gigantis the Fire Monster". However, when you look at that disaster of a film and compare it to Toho's original Japanese version, with no dubbing, no narration, no music or sound effect changes, you have one of the best 1950s monster movies. "Godzilla Raids Again", or "Godzilla's Counterattack" as its original title literally translates, is a flawed film. But like the first Godzilla, it's an allegorical classic. It symbolizes a different kind of horror that wasn't expressed in the first film.
The original 1954 classic "Godzilla" symbolized the horrors of nuclear war and the way that it can ultimately change the lives of people forever. "Godzilla Raids Again" focuses on a different perspective. It symbolizes the struggles of people still trying to adapt to life after a war and recover and try to resume their normal lives again. Godzilla and his very first opponent, Anguirus, are like weapons of war. They strike, cause enormous damage, leave ruins, and the people have to rebuild and try to get back on line again, until the weapons of war come back to attack them again. And the people still live in fear of the atomic bombs and other nuclear weapons, for they have brought back more horrors from the past and continue to bring them upon the world. While "Godzilla Raids Again" is nowhere near as powerful and allegorical as the first film, it is still one of my favorite Godzilla films. But once again, only in its uncut and undubbed print.
The English language version of the film is just another example of why you should never tamper with somebody else's film. It is an example among other Godzilla films and also Sergio Leone's "Once Upon a Time in the West", in which the American distributors cut the film down until it wasn't as compelling. When "Godzilla Raids Again" was distributed, they tore the film apart and changed it all. The most horrendous dubbing of any Godzilla film was put in, there was a lot of narration that ruined the original feeling of the film's atmosphere. But what was worst of all, they changed the monsters themselves. Godzilla's name was changed to Gigantis, his dark, chilling roar was changed to Anguirus' roar most of the time. A lot of the great sound effects of the monsters as they fought in Osaka were replaced, as was Masaru Sato's original music score. It was replaced with stock B-music and for what reason, I do not know why. A lot of other sound effects were changed as well. In the original print, Godzilla's death ray creates a loud, destructive kind of sound. But in the dubbed version, for reasons unknown, it was replaced with a wispy sound effect, like a leak in a hose.
Ignoring the existence of "Gigantis the Fire Monster", the special effects used in "Godzilla Raids Again" are very fine for the age. Unfortunately, they weren't as good as the Japanese Academy Award-winning effects presented in the first Godzilla film. At times, Godzilla's head and neck seemed too slender and the hand-operated puppet used in the close ups is just plain not good-looking. However, the suits used for Godzilla and Anguirus in their epic, realistic battle in Osaka looked fantastic! And what I loved most about this battle, is that it was a traditional, physical fight. The monsters bite, claw, and slam each other like real animals. Unlike in the future, when the monsters would mostly just bump into each other and fight with "beam wars". Godzilla's death ray is more like a last resort kind of weapon, something he uses when he's got a sense of victory, and spends the rest of his time biting and clawing at Anguirus, who performs the same actions. And unlike in the English version, the monsters don't continuously roar at each other, they mostly growl and snarl when fighting and roar once they have a brief stand-off every now and again.
But still, "Godzilla Raids Again", while it's an amazing monster film, has its flaws. Mostly, it's the fact that the monsters of the film do not have a whole lot to do with the story. In fact, Anguirus screen time ends after the first third of the movie is over. Maybe, he could have been used a bit longer for a more effective first appearance into the series. Godzilla himself, while the main plot point of the story, doesn't get as much screen time and scenes as he should get. The storyline just strays from him after the battle for too long and he doesn't really get anything else until the ending of the film.
But that doesn't mean a whole lot. Yes, "Godzilla Raids Again" is not the most action-packed Godzilla film there is. But it is, in its original version, one of the best monster movies there is. It presents a great symbolic message and should be examined by everybody for this reason. It is a dark compelling film, not as great as the first Godzilla film, but definitely one of the best.
The original 1954 classic "Godzilla" symbolized the horrors of nuclear war and the way that it can ultimately change the lives of people forever. "Godzilla Raids Again" focuses on a different perspective. It symbolizes the struggles of people still trying to adapt to life after a war and recover and try to resume their normal lives again. Godzilla and his very first opponent, Anguirus, are like weapons of war. They strike, cause enormous damage, leave ruins, and the people have to rebuild and try to get back on line again, until the weapons of war come back to attack them again. And the people still live in fear of the atomic bombs and other nuclear weapons, for they have brought back more horrors from the past and continue to bring them upon the world. While "Godzilla Raids Again" is nowhere near as powerful and allegorical as the first film, it is still one of my favorite Godzilla films. But once again, only in its uncut and undubbed print.
The English language version of the film is just another example of why you should never tamper with somebody else's film. It is an example among other Godzilla films and also Sergio Leone's "Once Upon a Time in the West", in which the American distributors cut the film down until it wasn't as compelling. When "Godzilla Raids Again" was distributed, they tore the film apart and changed it all. The most horrendous dubbing of any Godzilla film was put in, there was a lot of narration that ruined the original feeling of the film's atmosphere. But what was worst of all, they changed the monsters themselves. Godzilla's name was changed to Gigantis, his dark, chilling roar was changed to Anguirus' roar most of the time. A lot of the great sound effects of the monsters as they fought in Osaka were replaced, as was Masaru Sato's original music score. It was replaced with stock B-music and for what reason, I do not know why. A lot of other sound effects were changed as well. In the original print, Godzilla's death ray creates a loud, destructive kind of sound. But in the dubbed version, for reasons unknown, it was replaced with a wispy sound effect, like a leak in a hose.
Ignoring the existence of "Gigantis the Fire Monster", the special effects used in "Godzilla Raids Again" are very fine for the age. Unfortunately, they weren't as good as the Japanese Academy Award-winning effects presented in the first Godzilla film. At times, Godzilla's head and neck seemed too slender and the hand-operated puppet used in the close ups is just plain not good-looking. However, the suits used for Godzilla and Anguirus in their epic, realistic battle in Osaka looked fantastic! And what I loved most about this battle, is that it was a traditional, physical fight. The monsters bite, claw, and slam each other like real animals. Unlike in the future, when the monsters would mostly just bump into each other and fight with "beam wars". Godzilla's death ray is more like a last resort kind of weapon, something he uses when he's got a sense of victory, and spends the rest of his time biting and clawing at Anguirus, who performs the same actions. And unlike in the English version, the monsters don't continuously roar at each other, they mostly growl and snarl when fighting and roar once they have a brief stand-off every now and again.
But still, "Godzilla Raids Again", while it's an amazing monster film, has its flaws. Mostly, it's the fact that the monsters of the film do not have a whole lot to do with the story. In fact, Anguirus screen time ends after the first third of the movie is over. Maybe, he could have been used a bit longer for a more effective first appearance into the series. Godzilla himself, while the main plot point of the story, doesn't get as much screen time and scenes as he should get. The storyline just strays from him after the battle for too long and he doesn't really get anything else until the ending of the film.
But that doesn't mean a whole lot. Yes, "Godzilla Raids Again" is not the most action-packed Godzilla film there is. But it is, in its original version, one of the best monster movies there is. It presents a great symbolic message and should be examined by everybody for this reason. It is a dark compelling film, not as great as the first Godzilla film, but definitely one of the best.
Somewhat good in places, but does not have the impact of the first movie.
Aaron137513 May 2008
I finally now have seen this the second Godzilla movie made. The first where Godzilla takes on another monster...the other monster presented is Anguirus. The story was pretty good for the most part as they make it clear in the Japanese cut anyway, that this is a new Godzilla and not the one destroyed by the oxygen destroyer. Also, this new monster is also discovered. The cities just off the coast are on alert, everything seems to go well until a bunch of prisoners escape and start a large fire (light apparently attracts Godzilla)and not only does he come, but so does Anguirus and they battle in the city. After the battle there is time to relax as Godzilla leaves peaceful like enough and the city was evacuated very well this time too. Everything is going well until Godzilla reappears in a more northern town, however at one point he is in the middle of a bunch of snow capped mountains and a plan is hatched to stop Godzilla's onslaught again. This movie could have been better though, there is a lot of filler in this movie, I am thinking they felt they needed more scenes to pad out a rather short running time film. However, with this movie coming out only six months after the original, the extra scenes had to be scenes of people rather than of the monsters. Also, the film goes on a bit to long well after the battle between the two monsters. So much so that the threat of Godzilla seems to even evaporate for a time. I also think the plane scene at the end went on to long as their plan should have to worked after they figured it out rather than going back to base to load up on missiles. However, the fight between the two monsters is rather good, and unlike the professional wrestling like quality of the next movie "Godzilla vs King Kong" in this one the monsters fighting seems to be like that of two actual animals and not men in costumes. I think this one would have been much better though if they did not rush to complete it.
Not as haunting as the first Godzilla film, but still a solid sequel.
G.Spider2 January 2000
Another of Godzilla's species is discovered on an island, along with a spiky creature called Angilusaurus (or Angilus for short). Before long the two monsters are wrecking havoc.
Though this film was rushed out, it has the advantages of being made in the age when Godzilla films were serious-themed. The scenes in which city populations are told to turn their lights off to avoid Godzilla's attention at night are atmospheric and recall World War 2, when city lights were turned off to avoid the attention of enemy bombers. The music is haunting and the scenery, especially on the island, is suitably eerie. The film does tail away towards the end, but it's still one of the stronger sequels.
As with the original, and most other Godzilla films, the original non-dubbed version with subtitles is recommended.
Though this film was rushed out, it has the advantages of being made in the age when Godzilla films were serious-themed. The scenes in which city populations are told to turn their lights off to avoid Godzilla's attention at night are atmospheric and recall World War 2, when city lights were turned off to avoid the attention of enemy bombers. The music is haunting and the scenery, especially on the island, is suitably eerie. The film does tail away towards the end, but it's still one of the stronger sequels.
As with the original, and most other Godzilla films, the original non-dubbed version with subtitles is recommended.
Stick to the Japanese version!
gigan-927 April 2009
Warning: Spoilers
The sequel to the 1954 phenomenon, made only 4 months later, "Godzilla Raids Again". This is the only other black-and-white G-film in existence, and a very rare one at that. Probably due to the VERY poorly received American version. Thankfully, Classic Media one more comes through, even including the Japanese version. This film was decent at best, no where near as powerful as the first. The four fathers of Godzilla weren't all here, Honda and Ifukbe, probably a major factor in the sharp contrast. The score by Masaru Sato was't as striking as Akira Ifukube's score, but it was still all right.
Shigeru Kayama provides a good story, but I wish more of the characters from the first were in it. The escaped convicts was an interesting plot point, but overall the characters simply aren't as involving. Hiroshi Koizumi and Minoru Chiaki star but not even their performances can save the character's overall dullness. Takashi Shimura returns as Dr. Yamane, the only actor reprising his role disappointedly. Kind of a downer. The climatic battle is thrilling but Kobayashi's 'heroic' death was poorly scripted. Him sticking around in a weaponless plane as jets bomb Godzilla, not feelin' it.
Godzilla looked fantastic, the only real difference being his slimness. The puppet's teeth were the only bad point. Anguius was Godzilla's first ever foe and you got to love the echoing roar. The fights are entertaining, the camera speed accident a bit odd, but whatever. The fight ends brutally with Godzilla sinking his teeth in his throat nicely. The effects were nicely done all in all for their time.
The American version is just horrific!!! The constant voice-over is annoying and Kobayashi sounds like a bumbling oaf, despite the acclaimed actor he was in Japan. The score became a jumbled mess along with the story. Gigantis and Anguirus are somehow related and attracted to fire, blah, blah, blah, blah, etc.
Anyways, this film is good,but I warn you the U.S. version is only good for the commentary ( by Steve Ryfle!!!). Stick to the Japanese version!
Shigeru Kayama provides a good story, but I wish more of the characters from the first were in it. The escaped convicts was an interesting plot point, but overall the characters simply aren't as involving. Hiroshi Koizumi and Minoru Chiaki star but not even their performances can save the character's overall dullness. Takashi Shimura returns as Dr. Yamane, the only actor reprising his role disappointedly. Kind of a downer. The climatic battle is thrilling but Kobayashi's 'heroic' death was poorly scripted. Him sticking around in a weaponless plane as jets bomb Godzilla, not feelin' it.
Godzilla looked fantastic, the only real difference being his slimness. The puppet's teeth were the only bad point. Anguius was Godzilla's first ever foe and you got to love the echoing roar. The fights are entertaining, the camera speed accident a bit odd, but whatever. The fight ends brutally with Godzilla sinking his teeth in his throat nicely. The effects were nicely done all in all for their time.
The American version is just horrific!!! The constant voice-over is annoying and Kobayashi sounds like a bumbling oaf, despite the acclaimed actor he was in Japan. The score became a jumbled mess along with the story. Gigantis and Anguirus are somehow related and attracted to fire, blah, blah, blah, blah, etc.
Anyways, this film is good,but I warn you the U.S. version is only good for the commentary ( by Steve Ryfle!!!). Stick to the Japanese version!
The Best Godzilla Around
Movieman495026 January 2014
The best (in my opinion) 'Godzilla' around, is definitely 'Godzilla Raids Again', otherwise know as 'Gojira No Gyakshu' in Japanese. And yes, I like the Japanese version and the dubbed American version. (Please stop disrespecting it.)
The story tells of Shoichi Tsukioka, a Japanese pilot, who works for a big fishing industry. One day, when Tsukioka's best friend Koji Kobayashis plane went down, he set out to find him. When he was found, he was stranded on an island. And on it, the two awesomest monsters imaginable; Godzilla and Anguirus. Tsukioka and Kobayahi leave in a hurry, but soon the two prehistoric creatures find their way back to Osaka, and bring ultimate destruction with them.
This the second Godzilla movie ever made, is in black and white, and, you can believe it because it was made in the 50's and there weren't that great special effects then. I think the Japanese really hit the jackpot with this one. But in this movie, it explains so much about Godzilla and why he can breathe fire, and why he looks-like a dinosaur.
This is also the first movie Anguirus stars in. And trust me, he's been in a LOT of Godzilla's. Let's have a count shall we? Oh, I'll just tell you the answer. He was in 5 movies and one TV show.
So if you are a fan of the classic 'Godzilla' series, I definitely recommend this action packed Friday Flick to YOU!!! After all, it is the best Godzilla around. Heh, heh, heh.
The story tells of Shoichi Tsukioka, a Japanese pilot, who works for a big fishing industry. One day, when Tsukioka's best friend Koji Kobayashis plane went down, he set out to find him. When he was found, he was stranded on an island. And on it, the two awesomest monsters imaginable; Godzilla and Anguirus. Tsukioka and Kobayahi leave in a hurry, but soon the two prehistoric creatures find their way back to Osaka, and bring ultimate destruction with them.
This the second Godzilla movie ever made, is in black and white, and, you can believe it because it was made in the 50's and there weren't that great special effects then. I think the Japanese really hit the jackpot with this one. But in this movie, it explains so much about Godzilla and why he can breathe fire, and why he looks-like a dinosaur.
This is also the first movie Anguirus stars in. And trust me, he's been in a LOT of Godzilla's. Let's have a count shall we? Oh, I'll just tell you the answer. He was in 5 movies and one TV show.
So if you are a fan of the classic 'Godzilla' series, I definitely recommend this action packed Friday Flick to YOU!!! After all, it is the best Godzilla around. Heh, heh, heh.
Gojira no gyakushû: Inferior sequel, but not by much
Platypuschow8 July 2018
The cheesily titled Godzilla Raids Again see's our titular giant lizard strike Japan a second time but now as part of a battle with another oversized creature.
Alongside Godzilla with have a giant spikey turtle and the battle between the pair will see Osaka devastated again. What can our heroes do to stop them?
With some of the original cast but mostly new faces behind the camera this sequel to the 1954 classic lacks much of the charm of the original but still showcases special effects that were far ahead of their time.
Yes compared to everything we're used to now it all looks so very silly but it's hard not to recognise and appreciate how much effort went into this.
Sadly the sfx team fell a bit short and though things look great they aren't a patch on the original movie. The subtlely is also gone and that's a real shame as a tad more may have eased the pressure for creature effects.
A passable sequel and impressive for its time but pacing issues and a naff finale don't allow it to compare to it's predecessor.
The Good:
Way ahead of its time
Some of the original cast
The Bad:
Poorly paced
Weak ending
SFX are inferior to the previous years effort
Muted footage from first film was a bafflingly bad decision
Sped up fight scenes look daft
Things I Learnt From This Movie:
If you add the Benny Hill music to the monsters battle it fits perfectly
Alongside Godzilla with have a giant spikey turtle and the battle between the pair will see Osaka devastated again. What can our heroes do to stop them?
With some of the original cast but mostly new faces behind the camera this sequel to the 1954 classic lacks much of the charm of the original but still showcases special effects that were far ahead of their time.
Yes compared to everything we're used to now it all looks so very silly but it's hard not to recognise and appreciate how much effort went into this.
Sadly the sfx team fell a bit short and though things look great they aren't a patch on the original movie. The subtlely is also gone and that's a real shame as a tad more may have eased the pressure for creature effects.
A passable sequel and impressive for its time but pacing issues and a naff finale don't allow it to compare to it's predecessor.
The Good:
Way ahead of its time
Some of the original cast
The Bad:
Poorly paced
Weak ending
SFX are inferior to the previous years effort
Muted footage from first film was a bafflingly bad decision
Sped up fight scenes look daft
Things I Learnt From This Movie:
If you add the Benny Hill music to the monsters battle it fits perfectly
Decent film...if you're watching the Japanese version
monkeyjb19884 July 2011
Warning: Spoilers
I've been a fan of Godzilla and enjoyed several of the films. I watched both the Japanese and English versions of the film and enjoyed them both, preferring the Japanese. A while ago, I decided to rent this film due to its status as the first Godzilla sequel. I watched the Japanese version and I thought it was a decent film. It was far from perfect, mostly because the story had points that could've been from any other film. Other than that, the story was okay and the characters were as likable as their predecessors (one of whom makes a short appearance here). Of course, you can't judge a Godzilla film without mentioning the monster scenes, which were good here. The under cranking here is weird and doesn't belong, but the monster fighting was still good and a great start of pitting Godzilla against other monsters. All in all, good film. Not perfect and less good than many of the succeeding films and definitely a letdown compared to the original, but this film is worth at least a few viewings.
I'll take this opportunity to say my assessment and my score is for the Japanese version. The American version is absolute garbage. It adds a stupid prologue talking about the history of Earth and goes south from there. The US version has the main character narrate everything, even the things any idiot can clearly see. The voice acting was okay, but a huge step down. The writing that turned the Japanese version into the US version was terrible. All in all, the only good thing about the US version is highlighting the Japanese version's strengths. 1 star for this version, 2 if you're a Star Trek fan as well as a Godzilla fan, as a young pre-Star Trek George Takei was one of the voice actors and probably one of the better voice actors (I'll admit, Star Trek may be coloring my opinion). Finding all the characters he does was the only joy I got out of the Japanese version. If you're not a fan of Star Trek or Godzilla, avoid the US version. If you like Godzilla, watch it once, just to say you saw it, then stay the heck away and stick with the superior Japanese version. If nothing else, remember I thought the Japanese version was flawed and far from perfect. If I'm now calling it a classic and superior, I pray that's a red flag to you about the US version.
I'll take this opportunity to say my assessment and my score is for the Japanese version. The American version is absolute garbage. It adds a stupid prologue talking about the history of Earth and goes south from there. The US version has the main character narrate everything, even the things any idiot can clearly see. The voice acting was okay, but a huge step down. The writing that turned the Japanese version into the US version was terrible. All in all, the only good thing about the US version is highlighting the Japanese version's strengths. 1 star for this version, 2 if you're a Star Trek fan as well as a Godzilla fan, as a young pre-Star Trek George Takei was one of the voice actors and probably one of the better voice actors (I'll admit, Star Trek may be coloring my opinion). Finding all the characters he does was the only joy I got out of the Japanese version. If you're not a fan of Star Trek or Godzilla, avoid the US version. If you like Godzilla, watch it once, just to say you saw it, then stay the heck away and stick with the superior Japanese version. If nothing else, remember I thought the Japanese version was flawed and far from perfect. If I'm now calling it a classic and superior, I pray that's a red flag to you about the US version.
Uncanny
www112513 January 2023
Warning: Spoilers
It's rather odd to say, but while there are certainly other bad Godzilla movies, this is the only one I can honestly call boring. Whether you watch the Japanese or American versions, you're in for a rough time. Both are boring. The American version at least has amusing dialogue, "Banana oil!", plus hearing Yogi Bear in a Godzilla movie is absolutely surreal, but all this does little to help. As for the Japanese version, it's way less chaotic, refers the monsters names correctly, Godzilla has his own roar throughout, and lacks the annoying narration of the lead character. However, it drags way more, and there's long long instances of just absolute silence. It was definitely too rushed, which is a mistake many sequels make. There is positive here though, keeping it from being terrible. For one, fan favorite Anguirus makes his debut, and his battles with Godzilla are certainly fun to watch. As the first Kaiju battle, it's clear to see how they evolved over time. Future fights would be far more coordinated and had monsters showing actual personalities. Here, the fight feels far more like two actual animals fighting for supremacy, which is very different and interesting. I honestly enjoy that aspect of it. I also give points for coming up with a unique cool way to dispose of Godzilla. And even the human drama has some merit at times.......it just takes too long to get to the good moments that when they arrive, you don't really feel anything. Kobayashi's sacrifice bringing the defeat of Godzilla is a mirror of Serizawa in the first movie, but because these characters just don't click like the first movie's characters, it doesn't have the same impactful blow when it happens.
All fans should at least see it once. But definitely don't use it if you're trying to get a friend into Godzilla movies
--Wes Wall.
All fans should at least see it once. But definitely don't use it if you're trying to get a friend into Godzilla movies
--Wes Wall.
Good...No, Awesome Godzilla Movie!
Akimbo_Slice17 April 2007
Let me just begin this review by saying that I never intended to like this movie. I only got the DVD to add to my Godzilla collection. I knew that it was old and some of the stuff in the movie looks cheesy and the gave Godzilla the name Gigantis, but I misjudged this movie.
Godzilla Raids Again is definitely one of the top contenders for my favorite Godzilla movie (right with Final Wars, Gojira and Godzilla 2000.) Seeing as this is one of Godzilla's rarer movies, I consider myself lucky that I saw it.
So, to sum up my review in 1 sentence, I guess I'll say this. This movie wasn't what I expected, in a good way.
Godzilla Raids Again is definitely one of the top contenders for my favorite Godzilla movie (right with Final Wars, Gojira and Godzilla 2000.) Seeing as this is one of Godzilla's rarer movies, I consider myself lucky that I saw it.
So, to sum up my review in 1 sentence, I guess I'll say this. This movie wasn't what I expected, in a good way.
OK first sequel of the Godzilla series.
OllieSuave-00725 February 2001
This is an OK first sequel for Godzilla, which involves two pilots that discovered a new species of Godzilla battling a dinosaur named Anguirus on an island. Actor Takashi Shimura re-prises his role as Dr. Yamane from the previous Godzilla film. During a conference scene, he showed a film that depicts scenes of the first Godzilla's attack on Tokyo, as his listeners express concern on the new crisis involving the second Godzilla. The monsters then later venture their way to the city of Osaka, where all the monster action take place.
This film features Godzilla's first foe, Anguirus. The battle sequences between the two monsters are solid - pretty neat, fast-paced effect. I wished the monsters' first appearance in the movie was given a more intriguing entrance; they just simply appeared on cue.
Composer Masaru Sato did a good job on scoring this movie and I think his Main Title Theme for this film is one of the best non-Akira Ifukube music I've heard in Toho films. The scenes of the city of Osaka's blackout to prevent Godzilla from attacking is good comprehension and suspense.
The subplot of Koehi Yamaji's (Yukio Kasama) fishery and the relationship between Shoichi Tsukioka (Hiroshi Koizumi) and Hidemi Yamaji (Setsuko Wakayama) provided a good piece of drama and realism (especially during them figuring out how to pick up the pieces after the monster destruction), but they did drag the movie on after the much of the monster action as the latter part of the film was too concentrated on the human subplot, making the film on the dull side and taking the spotlight away from the more exciting monster theme.
Overall, it's an average film, which lacks a little of the sci-fi suspense due to the dragging human sub-plot. But, the monster scenes were great.
Grade C
This film features Godzilla's first foe, Anguirus. The battle sequences between the two monsters are solid - pretty neat, fast-paced effect. I wished the monsters' first appearance in the movie was given a more intriguing entrance; they just simply appeared on cue.
Composer Masaru Sato did a good job on scoring this movie and I think his Main Title Theme for this film is one of the best non-Akira Ifukube music I've heard in Toho films. The scenes of the city of Osaka's blackout to prevent Godzilla from attacking is good comprehension and suspense.
The subplot of Koehi Yamaji's (Yukio Kasama) fishery and the relationship between Shoichi Tsukioka (Hiroshi Koizumi) and Hidemi Yamaji (Setsuko Wakayama) provided a good piece of drama and realism (especially during them figuring out how to pick up the pieces after the monster destruction), but they did drag the movie on after the much of the monster action as the latter part of the film was too concentrated on the human subplot, making the film on the dull side and taking the spotlight away from the more exciting monster theme.
Overall, it's an average film, which lacks a little of the sci-fi suspense due to the dragging human sub-plot. But, the monster scenes were great.
Grade C
A More Serious, Straightforward Monster Movie
drqshadow-reviews11 February 2019
Godzilla's second appearance, released way back in the mid '50s, is much more in line with a classic horror film than the kitschy dust-ups that would soon follow. It's ambitious without being overzealous, tries hard despite rudimentary technical capabilities and the human subplots actually aid the monsters' storyline, rather than distracting from it. The necessity of shooting in black and white actually works to benefit the special effects. Concealed amidst a wash of inky shadow and evening murk, the tiny onslaught of toy tanks and rocket launchers seems more formidable, less obvious as a visual trick. Godzilla and his foe, the spiny reptile Anguirus, don't enjoy the same luxury. Although their battles are significantly faster in tempo and harder-hitting than in future installments, the old suits (particularly their heads) just don't hold up to close scrutiny. Looking back, the continuity is also problematic, but that's never been a strong suit for this franchise. All in all, it's perfectly enjoyable as a rather basic, single-focus disaster movie that knows where its bread is buttered. Maybe not as bold and bombastic as later entries, but that's not necessarily a bad thing.
The Strange History
Sargebri6 October 2002
This film is a decent follow up to the original film. It pretty much shows that you don't have to be a scientist or a major military figure to be a hero. The only thing negative criticism I have about it is that it tends to slow down when it gets to the scenes that feature only the human characters. However, the film really picks up steam when the fight between the two monsters begins.
Also, there is an interesting fact about this film. When it was first proposed that this film would be released in the United States, the title was for the American version was to be called "The Volcano Monsters" and it was to be written by noted schlock master Ib Melchior, the man behind such B classics as "Reptilicus" and "The Angry Red Planet", and his partner Edwin Watson. The proposed production would have used some of the footage from "Godzilla's Counterattack." The premise for the story was to involve the discovery of a tyrannosaurus (Godzilla) and an ankylosaurus (Angillas) in a cave on a remote island. The two monsters are then brought to San Francisco (the Japanese buildings would have been explained as being San Francisco's Chinatown) and then escape and start to fight all over the city. The ankylosaurus is killed during the battle and the tyrannosaurus is then left to rampage all over the city until it escapes to the Artic Circle where in the climatic battle it is covered in ice and preserved forever.
An interesting note, Melchior used several of the intended plot devices for "The Volcano Monsters" in Reptilicus, including the ending which showed the claw of another monster, which was poking out of the cave where the two monsters were found.
Also, there is an interesting fact about this film. When it was first proposed that this film would be released in the United States, the title was for the American version was to be called "The Volcano Monsters" and it was to be written by noted schlock master Ib Melchior, the man behind such B classics as "Reptilicus" and "The Angry Red Planet", and his partner Edwin Watson. The proposed production would have used some of the footage from "Godzilla's Counterattack." The premise for the story was to involve the discovery of a tyrannosaurus (Godzilla) and an ankylosaurus (Angillas) in a cave on a remote island. The two monsters are then brought to San Francisco (the Japanese buildings would have been explained as being San Francisco's Chinatown) and then escape and start to fight all over the city. The ankylosaurus is killed during the battle and the tyrannosaurus is then left to rampage all over the city until it escapes to the Artic Circle where in the climatic battle it is covered in ice and preserved forever.
An interesting note, Melchior used several of the intended plot devices for "The Volcano Monsters" in Reptilicus, including the ending which showed the claw of another monster, which was poking out of the cave where the two monsters were found.
Godzilla Round Two
gavin694229 April 2014
Godzilla battles an irradiated Ankylosaur and destroys Osaka in the process.
What happens when the Japanese make "Gojira" and it is wildly successful? They rush into production a sequel and release it within a year. And thanks to adding a second monster, it is another success -- the only thing more fun than Godzilla destroying Tokyo (or Osaka this time) is seeing him battle other large monsters.
The English version is full of excessive narration that adds nothing, excessive stock footage that is little more than "paranoid hyperbole" to quote Steve Ryfle, and more weak attempts to Americanize the film. Tragic hero Kobayashi, played by Minoru Chiaki in his only science fiction role, was even dubbed as a bumbling oaf.
What happens when the Japanese make "Gojira" and it is wildly successful? They rush into production a sequel and release it within a year. And thanks to adding a second monster, it is another success -- the only thing more fun than Godzilla destroying Tokyo (or Osaka this time) is seeing him battle other large monsters.
The English version is full of excessive narration that adds nothing, excessive stock footage that is little more than "paranoid hyperbole" to quote Steve Ryfle, and more weak attempts to Americanize the film. Tragic hero Kobayashi, played by Minoru Chiaki in his only science fiction role, was even dubbed as a bumbling oaf.
Good sequel to the iconic original
jamesrupert201411 December 2017
In this, Godzilla's second outing, an immense saurian is discovered on a remote island along with another giant throwback, a spiny ankylosaur. The monsters do battle in front of pilots Hidemi Yamaji (Setsuko Wakayama ) and Hiroshi Koizumi (Shoichi Tsukioka), who escape the island and warn the authorities. Knowing the original Godzilla to have been killed by the de-oxygenator, the bipedal colossus is deemed to be a second Godzilla. The pilots identify the ankylosaur (promptly christened Angilas) from an illustration in "The Book of Dinosaurs" and, following some pseudoscientific nonsense, Dr. Kyohei Yamane-hakase (Takashi Shimura reprising his role from the original Godzilla), concludes that nothing man can do will stop the behemoths. Ultimately Godzilla comes ashore at Osaka, followed by Angilas, and the ensuing battle destroys much of the city, despite the Japanese Defence Force's puny efforts at defence. Godzilla then returns to his island, where there is a climatic confrontation with the Japanese air force. Blended in is a minor, tragic romantic subplot and a dramatic prison escape that upsets plans to divert Godzilla from the city. The subtitled Japanese version I watched (and am rating) is an enjoyable monster romp, with both creatures simply forces of destruction and man's cities just venues for their battles. There is little of the metaphysical or spiritual subtexts that would show up later in the series (with mixed success) and Godzilla is definitely not a hero. The destruction of Osaka is excellent and highlights the strengths of the 'suit-mation' technique: while the creatures themselves may not be very 'realistic', the intricately detailed models that they destroy are. There are some weak points in the special effects (e.g. a technical error led to the monster fights being shot sped-up rather than slowed-down, much to the detriment of the scenes) and inconsistencies in the story (e.g. why use burning gasoline barrels to hem in a monster that has already waded through an immolating city and is attracted to fire?), but overall, "Godzilla Raids Again" is a fine, early entry into the long running series. In contrast, the American English-dubbed version ("Gigantis, the Fire Monster") is a disjointed mess. There is silly voice-over prologue about the space age (including a brief shot of Flash Gordon on his way to Mongo), a completely senseless 'origins story' (admittedly a weak point in the Japanese version as well) with stop-motion segments of "The Lost World" mixed in, the dubbing actors mix up the names of the monsters and weak idiomatic translation leads to expressions such as "Ah, banana oil!", the excellent original musical score has been mostly replaced, and in a final affront to kaiju fans (likely a rare breed in the mid-'50s), "Godzilla" is renamed "Gigantis". The American voice-cast is more interesting than the American movie itself: 'Star Trek' fans may recognise the voice of George Takei and Yogi Bear fans that of Daws Butler. If you want to view camp silliness to confirm your low opinion of Japanese suit-mation monster movies, watch "Gigantis"; however, if you want to watch a solid sequel to the iconic 1954 film "Godzilla", watch the Japanese original (with subtitles, as I did, if necessary).
Quickie Sequel
boblipton29 May 2019
A seaplane pilot scouting bonito for a fishing fleet spots Godzilla fighting an anklyosaurus on a distant island. Soon the two kaijus take their grudge match to Osaka, while the populace panics, valiant lady radio operators like Setsuko Wakayama try to coordinate defenders, and the Defense Force tries to bomb the survivor before he can wreck Osaka as thoroughly as he had Tokyo.
Toho got this into the theaters within six months of the premiere of GOJIRA, and the production shows the haste, including a wind-up toy being used for long shots. The critics preferred this to the original, because apparently they didn't care for sci-fi movies that were actually about anything; they didn't realize that the entire genre is symbolic. As for me, it was a well plotted script about boys with their toys beating the big bad dragon, which was all it was intended to be.
Toho got this into the theaters within six months of the premiere of GOJIRA, and the production shows the haste, including a wind-up toy being used for long shots. The critics preferred this to the original, because apparently they didn't care for sci-fi movies that were actually about anything; they didn't realize that the entire genre is symbolic. As for me, it was a well plotted script about boys with their toys beating the big bad dragon, which was all it was intended to be.
Giant Monster Month!
ericstevenson3 September 2017
This was the first of a number of incalculable sequels to the 1954 "Godzilla" movie. There's really something important about this movie that it explicitly addresses that you should know. This is actually not the same Godzilla that was in the original, but another one of its species. It's also asked why they don't just use the Oxygen Destroyer from the first movie. It's implied that the scientist gave his life so that it couldn't be used for evil purposes and can't be recreated. This is also the first time Godzilla fights another monster.
The flaw is that there's probably too much going on in this movie. We have the monsters fighting but Godzilla also seems to be destroying a city in the process. It should have just focused on the monster fight. The effects aren't as good as in the original movie, but they're still not bad. The series itself became goofier as time went on. Still, there are people dying when those buildings are being destroyed. Not one of the most memorable, but far from the worst. **1/2
The flaw is that there's probably too much going on in this movie. We have the monsters fighting but Godzilla also seems to be destroying a city in the process. It should have just focused on the monster fight. The effects aren't as good as in the original movie, but they're still not bad. The series itself became goofier as time went on. Still, there are people dying when those buildings are being destroyed. Not one of the most memorable, but far from the worst. **1/2
Godzilla gets a rival
bkoganbing12 February 2017
The second Godzilla picture from Japan has the big guy getting a rival. He also seems to have miraculously recovered from the oxygen killing weapon in the first Godzilla film where he was killed and left for dead in Tokyo Bay.
The rival here is a revived Ankylosaurus who if my paleontological memory serves was a plant eater. He had armor over his back with some nasty spikes on the side and a tail with a mass of bone that could be used as a club. But here he's fierce opponent. Of course being on four feet he's at a decided disadvantage to a two foot flesh eating predator. Not to mention that bad breath which produces some nasty flames.
This was the last Godzilla film shot in black and white. When the big guy returned in the 60s he was in color and teamed up with some kind of other monster and they would battle like the grapplers in the WWE.
These films are cheesy, but they are a lot of fun if you don't take them seriously.
The rival here is a revived Ankylosaurus who if my paleontological memory serves was a plant eater. He had armor over his back with some nasty spikes on the side and a tail with a mass of bone that could be used as a club. But here he's fierce opponent. Of course being on four feet he's at a decided disadvantage to a two foot flesh eating predator. Not to mention that bad breath which produces some nasty flames.
This was the last Godzilla film shot in black and white. When the big guy returned in the 60s he was in color and teamed up with some kind of other monster and they would battle like the grapplers in the WWE.
These films are cheesy, but they are a lot of fun if you don't take them seriously.
a sequel that is good but not as good as the original
jacobjohntaylor122 May 2014
The best Godzilla movie is the The 1998 remake. You don't have to agree with that. It is just my opinion. If that makes you really mad get over it chowder heads. And get a life. OK I like this movie. It is the second Godzilla movie. It is not as good as the first one Godzilla King of the monsters. It is not as good as the third one King Kong vs Godzilla. It is not as good as the forth one Godzilla vs M.O.T.H.R.A. But is it still this is a very good movie. Great story. Great special effects. See it. It is not as good as the part five G.H.I.D.O.R.A.H the three headed monster. It is not as good as part six Godzilla vs Monster zero. It is not as good part 7 Godzilla vs the sea monster. But still a Great movie see it.
I'm supposed to believe this is better than Godzilla vs Megalon?
InfamousTrapper17 August 2013
Warning: Spoilers
The plot was a bloody mess. The characters were laughable and self centered. Why was everyone so jolly and happy all the time? They only cared about their stupid factory and not the destruction of their frickin city.
Holy sh** the car chase with 20 mph cars? The prison break? What was the point of that???? That was completely unnecessary! Why on EARTH did they just smash through the wall? The whole scene was a horrible way to get Godzilla to come back to the city.
Most of the movie was just Godzilla standing still. Why on EARTH for the last 20 minutes was Godzilla just STANDING there, not doing sh**?
They killed of Kobiyoshi or whatever the heck his name was for NO REASON whatsoever. They killed him off just so they could figure out how to "kill" Godzilla by burying him.
Why did they think Godzilla was just going to leave the city alone after the first attack?
Oh God the first attack. The Godzilla vs Anguirus fight was not "brutal" as the top reviewer says. Anguirus was standing on 2 feet most of the time and they were just literally wrestling. It looked ridiculous. Godzilla's costume was God awful. His teeth were jutting out at weird angles.
The military didn't do sh** the whole movie. The whole movies was pretty much about this stupid fishing company which was following Godzilla for some reason. After Godzilla attacked, Kobiyoshi for some reason decided that it was a good time to look for a bride??? What???? WHY!
The whole film was a sh**fest. How is this rated 6.0?
Who in their right mind would deem this a passable sequel???
Holy sh** the car chase with 20 mph cars? The prison break? What was the point of that???? That was completely unnecessary! Why on EARTH did they just smash through the wall? The whole scene was a horrible way to get Godzilla to come back to the city.
Most of the movie was just Godzilla standing still. Why on EARTH for the last 20 minutes was Godzilla just STANDING there, not doing sh**?
They killed of Kobiyoshi or whatever the heck his name was for NO REASON whatsoever. They killed him off just so they could figure out how to "kill" Godzilla by burying him.
Why did they think Godzilla was just going to leave the city alone after the first attack?
Oh God the first attack. The Godzilla vs Anguirus fight was not "brutal" as the top reviewer says. Anguirus was standing on 2 feet most of the time and they were just literally wrestling. It looked ridiculous. Godzilla's costume was God awful. His teeth were jutting out at weird angles.
The military didn't do sh** the whole movie. The whole movies was pretty much about this stupid fishing company which was following Godzilla for some reason. After Godzilla attacked, Kobiyoshi for some reason decided that it was a good time to look for a bride??? What???? WHY!
The whole film was a sh**fest. How is this rated 6.0?
Who in their right mind would deem this a passable sequel???
Godzilla Raids Again A bad squeal? Banana oil!
solojere24 June 2020
After the success of the 1954 film, it was inevitable that Godzilla would return. But what most people don't know is that this squeal was made and released before the origin even hit U.S. Theaters. And while it does not have the emotional weight of the original, it is still a classic Godzilla film.
This time Godzilla is back, and he's not alone as humanity must also deal with another monster called Anguirus. And with the loss of Dr. Serizawa, humanity is virtually helpless to watch as Godzilla and Anguirus battle it out for supremacy.
Others have pointed out this movie's flaws, but let me say the good outweighs the bad. Godzilla is once again shown to be the King of the Monster and is in no way less threatening then he was in the first film. There is the introduction of both Anguirus and Monster fights into the franchise. And finally, the human characters are lovable in their own way. Sure, you can tell that they were still figuring out how to handle the franchise, and future films improve on both the monster fights and overall plot. But that doesn't mean this isn't a fun Godzilla movie.
I will say this one of the few Godzilla Movies where the Dubbing isn't that great, and you should watch the uncut Japanese version first if you can. But on the oft chance, you see Gigantis the Fire Monster enjoy it for what its worth corny lines and all and now that this is only the beginning for Godzilla.
Kobayashi... we beat Godzilla for you.
lastliberal-853-25370815 May 2014
The first thing that caught my eye was the presence of Takashi Shimura (Seven Samurai, Akira, Rashomon, Throne of Blood), a major character actor in Japan with over 200 screen appearances.
Then, you hear the voice of George Takei, Sulu in Star Trek, in his first film.
Another voice you hear is that of Marvin Miller, who I remember well in the late 50s as Michael Anthony, the man who delivered the checks on The Millionaire.
This is the American version of the film, as there was no narration in the Japanese version.
In this story, we have two monsters; Gigantis, closely related to the original Godzilla and a new monster named Angilas. What are they going to do without Dr. Serizawa and his secret weapon?
The Army had much better weapons this time, but they did nothing against Gigantis.
They even had a jailbreak and chase in the film, but I can't figure out what that had to do with the monsters.
Then, you hear the voice of George Takei, Sulu in Star Trek, in his first film.
Another voice you hear is that of Marvin Miller, who I remember well in the late 50s as Michael Anthony, the man who delivered the checks on The Millionaire.
This is the American version of the film, as there was no narration in the Japanese version.
In this story, we have two monsters; Gigantis, closely related to the original Godzilla and a new monster named Angilas. What are they going to do without Dr. Serizawa and his secret weapon?
The Army had much better weapons this time, but they did nothing against Gigantis.
They even had a jailbreak and chase in the film, but I can't figure out what that had to do with the monsters.
A Godzilla by any other name...
dfranzen7029 April 2015
You know how it goes: if you've seen one Godzilla movie, you probably have seen all you need to see. And what that awkwardly written sentiment means is that these movies are pretty much the same each time out. Big difference? The ever-changing "other creature" that Godzilla must battle. Here, as the big guy Raids Again (!), he goes up against an unnamed angliosaur, which sort of looks like a downtrodden stegosaurus.
Godzilla is first spotted by a Japanese pilot named Tsukioka as the latter attempts the rescue of a fellow flier, Kobayashi, on a remote island in the Pacific. The two think they're all safe and sound when - suddenly! - they hear the resounding thunder of two mighty beasts fighting. Or, in this case, two well-worn plastic models, or perhaps a couple of guys in suits. It could have been either, frankly. At any rate, back in Japan, scientists explain that the original Godzilla, who was killed in the first film (don't act like you didn't know that), died as a result of an "oxygen destroyer"; sadly, the man who invented the device is also dead, and so are any plans. So that answers that. But does it? All's fine, with Godzilla still out in the ocean, minding his own beeswax, until he's rousted by the Japanese air fleet, which makes him head for the island nation. Directly for Osaka, of course, one of the few cities not affected by Godzilla #1. Godzilla wreaks havoc and kicks butt, and then the angliosaur - who they call Angilas, so I guess he wasn't unnamed after all - returns from the sea to battle Godzilla. Big fight ensues. Mass destruction. Lots of carnage.
Godzilla (who doesn't do any actual raiding)'s second movie was rushed into production, showing in theaters a scant six months after the first movie. Sometimes, it shows. The effects are comically bad, even by 1955 standards. The film's dubbed in English, so naturally the audio's a mismatch. The Godzilla suit that some poor guy has to wear is obviously a Godzilla suit - there are several shots in which the monster turns to a side but the suit doesn't. Perhaps a seamstress was needed on set. In other shots, a model was transparently used, as the monster has all of the physical range of poor Stephen Hawking. It's tough to get too excited about the action, but some of the flying scenes do hold up pretty well.
I needed so badly to see this Godzilla movie before I saw others, because of course one must see these things in order. Well, maybe not. Anyway, in this movie, the big fella is referred to as Gigantis. No, I'm not kidding. For reals, now. According to IMDb, this is either because Warner Brothers couldn't get permission to use the name (but it was okay to use in the title?) or because the producer of the American version wanted to give viewers the impression that this was an entirely new monster. Don't think he succeeded on that front.
Godzilla is first spotted by a Japanese pilot named Tsukioka as the latter attempts the rescue of a fellow flier, Kobayashi, on a remote island in the Pacific. The two think they're all safe and sound when - suddenly! - they hear the resounding thunder of two mighty beasts fighting. Or, in this case, two well-worn plastic models, or perhaps a couple of guys in suits. It could have been either, frankly. At any rate, back in Japan, scientists explain that the original Godzilla, who was killed in the first film (don't act like you didn't know that), died as a result of an "oxygen destroyer"; sadly, the man who invented the device is also dead, and so are any plans. So that answers that. But does it? All's fine, with Godzilla still out in the ocean, minding his own beeswax, until he's rousted by the Japanese air fleet, which makes him head for the island nation. Directly for Osaka, of course, one of the few cities not affected by Godzilla #1. Godzilla wreaks havoc and kicks butt, and then the angliosaur - who they call Angilas, so I guess he wasn't unnamed after all - returns from the sea to battle Godzilla. Big fight ensues. Mass destruction. Lots of carnage.
Godzilla (who doesn't do any actual raiding)'s second movie was rushed into production, showing in theaters a scant six months after the first movie. Sometimes, it shows. The effects are comically bad, even by 1955 standards. The film's dubbed in English, so naturally the audio's a mismatch. The Godzilla suit that some poor guy has to wear is obviously a Godzilla suit - there are several shots in which the monster turns to a side but the suit doesn't. Perhaps a seamstress was needed on set. In other shots, a model was transparently used, as the monster has all of the physical range of poor Stephen Hawking. It's tough to get too excited about the action, but some of the flying scenes do hold up pretty well.
I needed so badly to see this Godzilla movie before I saw others, because of course one must see these things in order. Well, maybe not. Anyway, in this movie, the big fella is referred to as Gigantis. No, I'm not kidding. For reals, now. According to IMDb, this is either because Warner Brothers couldn't get permission to use the name (but it was okay to use in the title?) or because the producer of the American version wanted to give viewers the impression that this was an entirely new monster. Don't think he succeeded on that front.
See also
Awards | FAQ | User Ratings | External Reviews | Metacritic Reviews
