DVD Review: Godzilla Raids Again - Page 2

Soon enough Godzilla makes landfall with Anguirus on his tale. They battle through Osaka, destroying everything in sight while the military throws everything they have at them. The battle is a vicious one which leaves Anguirus at the bottom of the bay and the military still wondering what they can do about Godzilla. No, I won't give away the ending, but I am sure you have an idea of where it's headed.

The first version I watched was the American version, which was released, theatrically, under the name Gigantis, the Fire Monster. Not once during the movie is he referred to as Godzilla, although that is clearly who it is. This version is more annoying than I remembered. The majority of the movie is narrated by one of the pilots, and that device gets old fast. Honestly, did the American producers have so little regard for their audience that everything needed to be spelled out for them? Wait, don't answer that.

In addition to the narration, this version is saddled with tons of stock music replacing the original score, as well as some really poor quality stock footage. So, while there is only a two and a half minute difference in runtime between the two, there is considerable difference in the visual content. The dubbing is poorly done, it seems the script was rewritten with words aimed at matching the actors mouth movements rather than for content, often times the monsters names were flipped around, making keeping it all straight something of a chore. In addition to that, Godzilla's, sorry Gigantis's, roar is different every time and there are only a couple of instances when the classic Godzilla roar can be heard.

In short, the American version is not even supposed to be a Godzilla movie. The producers made every attempt to downplay the Godzilla connection which only serves to confuse the audience they were seeking to "protect." The most notable thing about this version is that a number of voices were supplied by George Takei, so you will be able to heat Mr. Sulu throughout the film.

Article Author: Chris Beaumont

Christopher Beaumont spends much of his time writing about music and movies when he isn't indulging in them. He is always ready to talk about his favorite form of entertainment and offer up recommendations. Follow: Twitter and Tumblr. Visit: Critical Outcast. …

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