Godzilla is a long-standing cultural icon from Japan and widely recognized both domestically and internationally. It first appeared in a horror film that debuted in the 1950s and has since become a staple of various films, with actors often donning monster suits to portray the character. From the 1960s to the 1980s, Godzilla underwent numerous transformations, and by the 1990s, its origin story was also altered. Before its return in the 21st century, Godzilla had “gone on hiatus” twice. In total, there are 28 Godzilla films produced by Toho, which are considered classic masterpieces of Japanese cinema. Below is a list of the top 10 most important Godzilla films that fans should watch to better understand the iconic “King of Monsters”:
1. Gojira (1954)
This film introduces the character of Godzilla, marking its historical significance. “Gojira”, or “Godzilla: King of the Monsters” in its American release, reflects the deep emotional scars of post-war Japan. The American version cut about 40 minutes from the original “Gojira”, which was intended to avoid emphasizing the monster’s symbolic connection to the atomic bomb that devastated Japan just a few years earlier.
2. King Kong vs. Godzilla (1962)
After two films that debuted in the 1950s, Godzilla returned in 1962 to face off against another iconic monster, King Kong. Although the film has a rather “dated” style, it still delivers memorable moments of monster clashes, such as throws, punches, and more.
3. Ghidorah, The Three-Headed Monster (1964)
While King Kong is a “friend” to Godzilla, this film introduced Ghidorah, a formidable three-headed monster, marking a shift in the franchise. The plot is quite intricate and offers significant thematic depth, showcasing one of the largest monster battles yet.
4. Godzilla vs. Hedorah (1971)
In this era, Godzilla became a hero to children and was positioned as a savior against pollution, personified by the character Hedorah. The film utilizes innovative techniques, providing viewers with a fresh experience and a deeper narrative.
5. Godzilla Vs. MechaGodzilla (1974)
Audiences were familiar with the trope of Godzilla facing off against another monster, but this time, they were treated to two Godzillas, one of which was MechaGodzilla, a robotic version made of metal. The battle against MechaGodzilla introduced new elements, including the hero King Caesar joining the fight.
6. Godzilla Vs. King Ghidorah (1991)
This film is not a direct sequel to “Ghidorah, The Three-Headed Monster”, but instead serves as a prequel that dives into the backstory of the three-headed monster, including time travel elements. Godzilla transforms into a true monster and wreaks havoc across Japan, leading to a complex narrative that intertwines past, present, and future.
7. Godzilla Vs. Destroyah (1995)
Toho once planned for Godzilla to “retire” after its 50th anniversary in 2004 but ultimately decided to resurrect the character after a grand finale. This film closely connects to the events of the 1950s, while also continuing the story arc in the context of the films that came out between 1985 and 1995, providing a satisfying conclusion to the franchise.
8. Godzilla Against MechaGodzilla (2002)
With advancements in CGI technology, Godzilla had the potential to return with even greater ferocity, prompting filmmakers to explore new ways to bring back this iconic monster. This film stands out as the only one where MechaGodzilla is portrayed as a “good” entity, aiming to combat Godzilla.
9. Godzilla: Final Wars (2004)
“Godzilla: Final Wars” is the most spectacular battle in the entire franchise, as its title suggests. The film brings together all the monsters that Godzilla has faced over the years, set against a futuristic backdrop that includes aliens and otherworldly threats. Godzilla once again steps into the role of the “hero”, fighting against familiar foes like King Ghidorah, Gigan, and King Caesar.
10. Shin Godzilla (2016)
In this latest installment, Toho reminds audiences that Godzilla is a symbol of Japan, and its films continue to resonate. Following 30 entries (including two American films), the concept of Godzilla has been refined, and the filmmakers have “reimagined” this monster in a way that is entirely new and captivating. Here, Godzilla is no longer just a protector of Japan, nor a mere adversary to King Kong, but has transformed into a much more complex character. While it may seem alien or monstrous compared to previous incarnations, “Shin Godzilla” undoubtedly stands as a crucial part of the franchise that every fan must see.
Source: Geek
