029 4 After his giant battle with King Kong , the monster known as Godzilla returns . Only this time , he's up against a giant moth who's preventing him from attacking more civilians . In 1964 , the Toho Company released the fourth movie in the Godzilla series , Mothra vs . Godzilla . Known in the United States as Godzilla Vs . The Thing , the film was a product of the celebrated creative team of Shinichi Sekizawa ( screenplay ) , Ishiro Honda ( human drama ) , and Eiji Tsuburaya ( special effects ) . Mothra Vs . Godzlla is known by fans everywhere as Godzilla's finest hour , for its good sound effects , tone and script . It's also the most popular and memorable film in the franchise . Mothra Vs . Godzilla is widely considered to be the best of all the sequels . Watching it again after so many years , I find that statement to be very true . This is one of the best Godzilla movies out there . If you want to see Godzilla in his prime , then this is the movie you have watch ; for it truly is his finest hour .
After a giant typhoon hits Tokyo , a news reporter named Sakai and his photographer Junko take pictures of the damage . Later that same day , the local villagers discover a giant monster egg washed ashore on the beach . The villagers salvage it and scientists come to study the egg . No one knows whose egg it is and where it came from . While Sakai and Junko try to ask Professor Miura questions about the egg , an entrepreneur of Happy Enterprises named Kumayama scurries the scientists off and explains that he bought the egg from the local villagers . Instead of letting scientists study the egg , Kumayama wants to make it apart of a tourist attraction . Kumayama wants to make more cash by having customers pay to see the giant egg hatch . Sakai , Junko , and Professor Miura are disgusted by the idea and believe that Kumayama has no right to keep the egg . As Kumayama discusses the tourist attraction with his boss , they are visited by two tiny twin girls .
The two girls explain that they are from Infant Island and that the egg belongs to a monster named Mothra . The twins later leave with nothing after pleading with the two men on giving the egg back . The twins then turn to the newspaper journalists for help , but still fail . Later , Sakai , Junko , and Professor Miura then go out testing for radioactivity in an industrial area . That's when Godzilla suddenly pops out of the beach ( where he supposedly left off after his fight with King Kong ) and begins to attack the surrounding cities . With very little hope that the military will defeat Godzilla , another reporter suggests that the friendly Mothra might be able to get rid of the monster . Sakai , Junko , and Professor Miura then head to infant island to warn the villagers that Mothra's egg might be in danger , resulting in a climatic battle between Mothra and Godzilla .
This was one of the many Godzilla movies I remembered watching as a kid . Back then I was always fascinated with Godzilla , so I was pretty heart broken to see him defeated at the hands of Mothra's babies . I was young at the time , so I wasn't as into the story . I always figured that Godzilla was a good guy , so I was really ticked off when I first saw this movie . It wasn't until I got older that I realized Godzilla was the bad guy . In fact , the early movies presented Godzilla as a menace . A punishment for the sins of World War 2 . A result from the fallout of a hydrogen bomb test . A giant fire breathing villain with a sweet tooth for destruction ( alright you get the idea ) . The other monster in the movie , Mothra , is actually a nice creature . A sort of love monster if you will . This film marks the first appearance of Mothra in the Godzilla series . Mothra would later appear in many other Godzilla films .
Mothra Vs . Godzilla is one of the key movies in the Godzilla franchise , due mostly to its popularity . It's one of my all time favorite monster movies . It has a great story , a good cast of characters and a great script . It's top notch compared to many other films in the series . If this isn't already in your collection then you should be ashamed of yourself . Mothra Vs . Godzilla is a must own for monster movie and Godzilla buffs alike . Much like the previous re-releases , Genius Products attached both the original Japanese-language and English-dubbed versions of the movie . As always , the Japanese cut of the movie is better ( and less confusing ) . Once again it's not jam packed with bonus material , but there is a commentary track and Akira Ifukube biography featurette . If you're looking for a great monster movie then look no further . The Toho Master re-release of Mothra Vs . Godzilla is one that you must have in your collection .
001 4 ' Godzilla vs . Mothra ' is one of my favorite in the Godzilla series . It is still early enough ( 1964 ) to be serious , yet more decidedly less dark in tone than the original . In this one Godzilla is still a bad guy , and Mothra , a giant moth , is summoned from Monster Island with the help of two miniature singing muses and some natives . Ultimately Mothra almost overcomes Godzilla with some great rubber monster fights along the way ( and all the toy airplanes , tanks , boats , etc . , that comes with them ) , but it is a ' Lion King ' ( or Circle of Life , if you prefer ) moment as Mothra dies atop her egg , which is being coaxed to hatch by some very imaginative chanting . The two grubs that emerge from the egg are out for vengeance and taunt Godzilla with several wily maneuvers before cocooning him in silk and dumping him into the ocean . The sight of the two grubs swimming off into the sunset is particularly delicious for fans of the series .
The movie is well made for the era , and I think the English dubbing is better than in most of the Godzilla films . Likewise the script is more mature than the bulk of the Godzilla series , which in general I like , although it becomes a bit preachy about the anti-nuclear stuff ( Ishiro Honda is the greatest director of the Japanese monster movies , but subtlety is not one of his more admired filmmaking attributes . ) The film does , however , serve its desired function as a comment on greed and avarice admirably .
I recommend ' Godzilla vs . Mothra ' highly , and no fan of Japanese cinema or monster movies should be without it . It is available as a single DVD or part of a Godzilla five-pack , which I recommend highly : it's a bargain at any price !
002 4 1964 ' s Godzilla vs . Mothra , ( originally released in the U.S . as Godzilla vs . The Thing as a publicity gimmick to hide the identity of Godzilla's adversary ) is the best of the many sequels to the original Godzilla . The film series reached a level of wonderful pop-culture entertainment here : imaginative effects , gripping and simple story-line , and fantastic monster mashing . It's actually a smart , well-put together movie , something that people who look down on Japanese monster movies as silly and stupid would never expect . And it is LOADS of fun .
This film followed up quickly on the massive success of King Kong vs . Godzilla . The studio , Toho , wanted Godzilla to go up against another ` name ' monster , and selected one of their own : the gigantic moth / caterpillar Mothra , who had starred the hit 1961 film Mothra . The story has Godzilla returning to wreck havoc on Japan ( this is the last time for many years that Godzilla would be the unquestioned ` bad guy ' ) , defying the military's numerous ingenious - - but ineffective - - attempts to stop him . The one hope for humanity lies in recruiting Mothra to take on the big lizard . But the people of Infant Island where Mothra lives are reluctant to help because two unscrupulous businessmen have captured Morthra's lost egg and turned it into a sideshow attraction . When they refuse to surrender the egg , it begins to look like Godzilla will get to have his way with Japan unopposed . . .
The film is absolutely loaded with stunning effects and action sequences . Godzilla's initial rampage in Nagoya is a knock-out , with the Big-G smashing a radio tower and Nagoya castle to the ground ( Haruo Nakajima , the actor inside the suit , does a wonderful performance in this scene ) . The Godzilla suit used in this movie , known as the Mosu-Goji to fans , is beautiful : sleek , evil , and extremely personable . The two confrontations between Godzilla and Mothra , the first time in moth form , the second time in caterpillar form , are the best monster fights in all of the G-movies . Effects wizard Eiji Tsubaraya finds creative ways to have the monsters tackle each other , and the music from Akira Ifukube just keeps building and building . The finale is as exciting as anything you'll see in a big effects film from any country .
The human scenes are very effective as well , with good performances all around from actors like Kenji Sahara and Akira Takarada , regulars in monster movies . Director Ishiro Honda provides his customary humanitarian touch to the story , and he takes it with an appropriate level of seriousness . No doubt about it , Honda was a great director , and in his hands , giant monster movies could seem like more than just light entertainment .
The version on this disc is the dubbed American version . The Japanese language version with subtitles is superior - - a five-star rating easily - - but has never been available on a home video format ( someone should really do something about this ! ) . However , this is probably the best dubbed version ever of a Godzilla film . The voice acting is quite good , and almost nothing has been changed or edited from the original . Actually , a scene has been added , involving a U.S . military ploy to attack Godzilla with newly developed missiles . ( Guess how effective that is . ) The only real trouble with the dubbing is that the characters sometimes refer to Mothra as the Thing and other times by its real name , which is pretty strange sounding .
The disc has nothing in the way of real extras . Also , the advertised 5.1 stereo is a cheat : the producers of the disc added a few extra sound effects here and there for the back speakers - - such as when Godzilla is being electrified or when tanks are firing - - that sound tinny , awful , and unconnected to the actual film . Stick with the original mono option .
Even dubbed , Godzilla vs . Mothra is a four-star film and a must for anyone who loves giant monsters or just wants to have a good time on a Saturday night with friends . ROAR ON GODZILLA !
003 4 There have been three series of Godzilla movies : the Showa series , which includes all films released from 1954 - 1975 , the Heisei series , which includes all films released from 1984 - 1995 , and the Millennium series , which includes all films released from 1999 - 2004 . The Showa series holds all the classics , and excluding the original , nothing is more classic than 1964 ' s MOTHRA VS . GODZILLA . Much like GOLDFINGER ( released the same year ) , which was almost universally considered to be the finest James Bond film prior to the release of CASINO ROYALE , by all explanations MOTHRA VS . GODZILLA shouldn't be so good . Nevertheless , it is inexplicably the finest sequel in the Showa series .
The plot involves a mysterious giant egg that washes up on the shores of Japan , attracting the attention of greedy businessmen who purchase the egg . Meanwhile , a scientist , a reporter , and a rookie photographer are trying to discover what the egg really belongs to when they encounter two small fairies , who tell them that the egg is Mothra's egg . Mothra is , of course , a giant moth , who made her debut in her own kaiju flick , 1961 ' s MOTHRA ( also directed by the great Ishiro Honda ) . Though the trio tries to convince the businessmen to return the egg to Mothra , they will do no such thing . Then who emerges to liven things up but the Big G himself , looking more ferocious than he did before or did in any film afterwards . Can Mothra protect her egg and save Japan from the menace of Godzilla , or will Japan's worst ( and biggest ) enemy be having scrambled eggs for his next entree ?
Ishiro Honda really knew what he was doing with this film . The pacing is perfect : not too rushed , but not slow to the point where one begins screaming for a monster to pop up and wreak some havoc . The screenplay is humorous and very fun , and Akira Ifukube's music is spectacular . The Godzilla suit used for this film , Mosugoji , is a fan favorite due to its more nasty , reptilian look . Mothra herself is a seemingly silly opponent , but her battle ( s ) with Godzilla are surprisingly interesting . The best scene of the film is Godzilla's first appearance , sudden , with no foreshadowing . I won't ruin it for you if you haven't seen the film , but it's my favorite Godzilla entrance ever .
I cannot congratulate Sony Wonder enough for their recent Godzilla DVD releases . For a longtime fan like me , they're a dream come true - gorgeous packaging , delectable restoration , sumptuous bonus features , and both the Japanese AND English version ( the English version of MOTHRA VS . GODZILLA , titled GODZILLA VS . THE THING , actually contains extra footage not in the Japanese version ! ) . It's quite the package ; if you're a Godzilla fan , don't hesitate to pick it up . MOTHRA VS . GODZILLA is the best sequel of the Showa series , and a reminder of just how fun evil Godzilla was before the series descended into silliness with the subsequent entries .
004 4 Mothra vs . Godzilla ( the correct title , not the other way around ) is not just a great Godzilla film . It is also a landmark for Japanese special effects , especially when compared with its predecessor , King Kong vs . Godzilla . The annoying blue matte lines that marred the latter are gone , and the Godzilla suit used in this movie ( referred to as the Mosu-Goji suit by hardcore fans ) is among the best designs of the entire series . The plot is also solid ; not only does the story flow smoothly and logically , but it is also a clever jab at the excesses of rampant commercialism - - as was the case in 1960 ' s Mothra . Ishiro Honda supplies deft direction , while stars Akira Takarada and Yoriko Hoshii both give excellent performances as a newspaper reporter and photographer , respectively . The battles between Godzilla and Mothra ( both in larval and adult form ) are first-rate - - Eiji Tsubaraya's imaginative special effects are astounding for the period , and hold up well even by today's standards . Also of note is one of Akira Ifukube's best scores , combining the famous Godzilla and Mothra themes seamlessly . . . thankfully the American version keeps all of which intact . The English dubbing is also unusually good . If you're looking for any G-film to own besides the historic original Godzilla , King Of The Monsters , this is the one to get - - quite simply , it has everything that a good sci-fi or action-adventure flick should have . For the price , it's a bargain .
005 4 This does have the choice between pann and scann and Letterbox format , but the rest of the DVD is sucky . They could have presented the film subtitled in it's original Japanese version , with the Jpanese and American trailers and with Special effects outakes and the American sequince but they didn't do that . However , the Widescreen presentation is crystal clear and this looks 100 tiumes better than the rather dispappointing Japanese laserdisk ( that had kind of muted colors and was OVERLY letterboxed ( it was like in 2.76 : 1 ) . This is dubbed but it's not bad at all . The only problem with AIP's Titan Productions dubbing is that it's kind of garbled and hard to make out , though it's better than most of Toho's international version dubbing . The real problem though is the pathetic extras , the fake trailers which are just video advertisemnets and the pathetic picture gallery . However , this is one of Honda's greatest masterpeices and Japan's best sci-fi films , though it is bested by Matango , Magic Serpent and Goke . If only they could release those films on DVD . This bests all of Honda's other monster movies ( exept for Matango ) , even the original Godzilla and Mothra . All in all , if you can get past the sucky DVD extras , get this film .
006 4 Without a doubt not only the best made Godzilla film of the old series but
one of the greatest giant monster films foreign or domestic . After a violent
storm a huge egg appears floating off Japan's Karada beach where its quickly
brought to shore and put in a huge incubator for public exploitation . All of
those involved soon find out that this lost egg belongs to the god of infant
island Mothra and must be returned as told by the two tiny representatives
( the Peanut sisters ) but their cries fall short of the greedy opportuntist
Things become worse when Godzilla appears ( and not in the best of moods ) With
Japan ( and American ) weapons unable to stop this Titan . The only hope now is
that of Mothra but will the natives of infant island be reluctant to help those who refused them ? This sets the stage for a truly great scifi / Fantasy tale as only Toho could weave .
Great on so many levels this was one of the few serious Godzilla entries
of the series and it shows in the care of it's production From the pacing
of the film's story to Eji's Special Effects ( Godzilla never looked more
menacing ) to Akira's greatest score ever ! I never get tired of watching
this film one of my favorite moments other then the titled bout itself is Godzilla's first weary & confused appearance as he slowly stomps his way
toward Japan's more populated areas ( I always thought of this the after
effect of his fight with King Kong from King Kong vs . Godzilla but that
is probably just me . )
The Newly Released version by Classic Media is the best restored version
yet whether your watching the Original Japanese Version or the American
Dubbed version you love the clean up The Japan version is in 2.31 format
while the American Version is formatted to fit 16x9 Televisions . Extra
features are in the form of a well meaning tribute to Music Master Akira
Ifukube and a poster slide show with an Original Japanese Trailer . I look
forward to sampling future attractive thin cased Media classics .
007 4 For those who haven't picked up on it yet , until Amazon can get this in stock , you can get it directly from Classic Media at godzillaondvd.com .
My review is mostly about the DVD and not the movie .
I was a bit disappointed by this DVD release but overall it is better than the previous DVD release for this film , namely the Simitar DVD . If you have the Simitar DVD , DO NOT throw it away , yet .
The Good
1 . ) Both the Japanese and English versions here are available . Both in a widescreen format . On the English version many of the visual problems are fixed , mainly dealing with color .
2 . ) The English version contains the original AIP dubbing , thank goodness ! ! Meaning if you grew up with this film , it is as you remember it . Of course , I'm not sure Toho ever did their own cut of this film .
3 . ) The DVD cases are very stylish and I love the cover and art inside .
4 . ) DVD features include commentary and trailers , nothing all that special here , but take that with a grain of salt as special features are rarely in my field of interest .
The Bad
1 . ) For the English version , Classic media decided not to use a true widescreen format ( meaning 2 : 35 : 1 ) they instead use 1 : 78 : 1 and although it isn't bad , it's not the same . Luckily , instead of just saying It's what we decided to use , and that's all . they gave an explanation . This is what I meant by not throwing away your Simitar video . : ) Note , the Japanese version is a true widescreen ( 2 : 35 : 1 ) cut . Below is their explanation :
The DVD also features the original U.S . version , Godzilla vs , the Thing , which has a running time of 88 : 07 . After comparing the available source materials , it was decided to not use the scope version previously released on DVD because it has several problems including missing dialogue and special effects footage , out of synch audio , and poor color that weakened the quality of animated effects . Instead , Classic Media chose a downconvert from a High Definition Master that presents Godzilla vs , the Thing complete and in top quality at 16 × 9 widescreen ( approx . 1 : 78 : 1 ) .
2 . ) This part is the biggest problem , they didn't remaster it . . . . . why ? ! ? !
Don't get me wrong the film is pretty good in quality but there is still visual defects that range from negligible to mildly annoying . And though , the color in this version is better than the true widescreen , it's still rather dull at times . Do not expect this film to be on level visually with Sony's DVD releases which were remastered and are pretty darn crisp .
3 . ) The DVD cases , though very nice , don't stay closed ! This can be very annoying when taking it off the shelf .
It was a good attempt , on a scale of 1 to 10 , I'd give it a 7.5 . I really wish they had taken the time to fix the widescreen version of the English version instead of taking this shortcut . The 1.78 isn't bad and most people won't care , but it just isn't the same .
008 4 The original Godzilla vs Mothra was one of the best sequels of the first Godzilla series , and this new movie ranks as perhaps the greatest Godzilla movie of all time . I love Mothra ; he's the only monster I pull for over Godzilla . This movie is quite different from the original - - of course , this modern Godzilla series takes place in a world where Mothra and Godzilla have never met before now . A fairly large meteorite crashes in the Pacific Ocean , and - - wouldn't you know it ? - - it splashes down at the very place Godzilla has been napping underneath the ocean . Awakened so rudely , Godzilla decides to attack Japan . Meanwhile , the meteorite impact sets in motion a series of natural disasters . An Indiana Jones-type thief is sent to Infant Island to look into the effects on the environment there . He is accompanied by his ex-wife , and the back and forth banter between them is priceless . When a gigantic egg is found to have surfaced , they begin dragging it back to Japan , along with the twins of Infant Island , who represent the cosmos . Soon Godzilla shows up , the egg opens , and a small-scale fight between Godzilla and Mothra in his larva form breaks out . Battra also then shows up to crash the party . Battra is an ancient monster which Mothra defeated long ago . Whenever earth is threatened , Mothra is reborn along with his enemy Battra . Soon , both Godzilla and Battra are attacking Japan , and Mothra is also doing great damage due to his efforts to rescue the twins , who have been kidnapped . Everything culminates in a huge fight involving Godzilla , Mothra in his moth form , and Black Mothra , Battra in his similar moth form . It is not quite accurate to say that Godzilla must fight both Mothra and Black Mothra ; at the outset of the struggle , it is Mothra who is confronted with two mortal enemies .
The special effects are amazing , with plenty of explosions and destruction , with one exception - - when Mothra and Black Mothra are shown flying above a city landscape , it looks awfully fake . I was delighted to see Mothra finally given some offensive firepower in the form of laser-blasting antennae ; still , both Godzilla and Battra possess much greater firepower . One thing I found disappointing was the new history of Infant Island . No longer is Mothra worshipped by natives on the island ; only the twins live there , and they are the cosmos , serving to keep earth's forces in balance . Luckily , they still sing the Mothra song I love to hear for some reason , and they are still quite small .
While all Godzilla movies contain a degree of environmentalist rhetoric , this film is loaded with it . Earth herself is described as a living being who is exacting revenge , in the form of Black Mothra , against the humans who have done such damage to the environment . The fact that a meteorite from outer space triggers this whole set of events seems strange , especially since Mothra never appeared to safeguard the earth when men were testing nuclear weapons .
The Godzilla movies of the 1990s are really incredible . While you might expect the whole Godzilla theme to be getting old after several decades , the Japanese are actually making these movies better and better . While the special effects offered by modern technology contribute a lot to the success of the new movies , the commitment to plot development ( no matter how weird the plot ) is what really makes these movies so fascinating and enjoyable . In the 60s and 70s , producers of Godzilla movies really didn't seem to care whether or not their movies were good at all . They care now , and it shows . We had to wait a few years here in America to get access to these newest movies , but the wait was definitely worth it .
009 4 This is one of the best re-issue DVD series I've seen in a long time . Classic Media knows what we want and gives it to us .
* A great-looking transfer of a classic film .
* Informative commentary
* Not too expensive
The best thing about this series of re-issues , is , of course , the inclusion of the dubbed American versions alongside the original Japanese versions . This allows the hardcore Godzilla fans to see the movies as they were originally made , while giving stoned couch potatoes the campy dubbed verisons they remember from Saturday afternoon Creature Features ( Hey look ! His lips are moving but he's not making any sound ! Haw haw haw haw ! ) .
A lot of DVD companies would either confuse the consumer with two separate releases , or release Deluxe 2 - DVD versions of every movie ( as with the original Godzilla movie ) , but Classic Media gets it right by putting both versions on the same disc and releasing it at an affordable price ( with great graphics to boot ) .
It doesn't hurt , either , that this is one of the best of the original Godzilla sequels , presented in all its fabulous widescreen Tohoscope glory . Even if you're just a casual Godzilla fan , this one belongs in your collection . As for me , I can't wait for the release of the Ghidorah movies and War of the Gargantuas later this year ! Godzilla-lovers rejoice !
010 4 The Godzilla suit is of the finest ever created for any Godzilla flick , except King Kong vs . Godzilla 1962 ( my opinion ) . This really is the the last great Godzilla movie ever made . After 1964 Godzilla had some shining moments in his later movies , but Godzilla movies from 1965 on were made with absolute sillieness and really no seriousness . The one exception was Godzilla vs . the Sea Monster 1966 this had some sillieness but had just enough seriousness to make it an adequate Godzilla movie . The 1970s were Godzillas whimp stage and his movies showed it . Sony Wonder does an excellent job with the film transfer and sound as it did with Godzilla vs . The Sea Monster and Godzilla vs . The Smog Monster ( 1971 ) . You almost swear Godzilla vs . Mothra was filmed a few years ago , ( not 43 years ago ) . the same could be said with the other two titles I mentioned . The one point I will bring out in this review is the genius of Ikira Ifakube . Ifakubes music score for Godzilla movies were used repeatedly in later Godzilla movies , but in Godzilla vs.Thing Ifakubes musical art is clearly heard in this film . Note when Mothra first arrives as Godzilla is ready to destroy the egg , Godzilla stares at Mothra ready to battle , the camera zooms closely on Godzillas face and all you hear is Ifakubes echoey like symbols in the background you really feel Godzillas fury . Story , music aside Amazingly and effective you feel the action and emotion in this film thanks to the directing of Inoshiro Honda and Akira Ifakubes brilliant music score.This movie does have a message to it about over land development and greedy humans of rich wealthy companies that don't care about nature or the enviroment they only care about development for profit . As Godzilla is trouncing Japan you see large scale factories being destroyed , portraying mankinds over development and pollution of the enviroment in the name of profit . Godzilla vs . Mothra shows how sometimes these greedy wealthy humans get more than they bargained for . The Mothra twins are cool and capture the 1960s with a flower power punch . I just wish the ending would have had Godzilla triumph . This movie really is a sci-fi epic I dont care what any fan or critics say . Godzilla vs . Mothra ( or the Thing ) is an incredible sci-fi adventure to be enjoyed by old and new G fans alike . The 1960s Toho Pictures golden age . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
011 4 Godzilla vs . Mothra is probably my all-time favorite Godzilla movie , mostly because it has better-than-average special effects and an ecological angle to the storyline - - don't exploit the environment , or there will be dire consequences - - that still resonates today .
This DVD reissue , though , is woeful , especially in comparison to the Simitar DVD put out a few years ago . That DVD gave viewers the option of widescreen and fullscreen images , though it was light on extras . This reissue from Sony only offers the fullscreen version , and a scratchy print of it at that . And the extras ? Nothing but a commercial for the destroy All Monsters video game .
Go find a copy of the Simitar DVD instead and avoid this one unless , like me , you're fond of wasting money .
012 4 One of my favorite Godzilla films of all-time is also considered to be one of the greatest by the majority of the fanbase . This film never seems to get dull and is more and more exciting each time you watch it !
Video Quality :
Presented in its original format , it is expected to have some faded colors and some dust spots . The color , while not as crisp , is still very good . There are few dust marks on the DVD . Much less than what some people make out to be .
Audio :
You have the choice of Mono or Dolby Digital 5.1 stereo . It is automatically set to the stereo which would give you a better experience with the film , but the Mono is also good if you are curious as to how the film may have sounded like in Japanese theaters in 1964 .
Extras :
Not much in the way of extras . There is the Nintendo Gamecube promo for the Godzilla : Destroy All Monsters Melee video game . But other than that , you really aren't going to find anything spectacular on this .
Overall :
A very great film and DVD . The set it also comes in ( the 5 disc set ) is also a worthwhile buy . But fans who have the Simitar version of the film will not want to pick this one up because they are basically the same . The only difference being the menu layout and the Gamecube promo for the Godzilla video game . For fans who do not have this , this DVD still should be relatively easy to find along with the 5 disc set as well . In fact , you may be able to find this in a bargain bin for under $10 or $5 by itself .
013 4 This is one of the best of the early Godzilla movies , and as far as Godzilla movies go , its a 5 star . Unfortunately , the DVD is not really up to par . It is NOT in letterbox format , and some scenes appear to be cut short . It seems this disc was made as cheaply as possible to be little more than an advertisement for the new video game . This movie is a cherished childhood memory .
Its a shame they couldn't do it right .
014 4 The tape quality is the main reason I'm not giving this a five-star review . The dubbing is absolutely horrendous , and the tape's really bad ( why not letterbox ? And what's with the grainy picture ? ) Not TriStar's best efforts . And a final gripe : why change the title ? It's Godzilla vs . Mothra , not Godzilla and Mothra : the Battle For Earth .
Lousy tape quality aside , this is an okay movie . The plot is slow at times , but the FX are surprisingly good , especially the laser light shows . The monsters look cool , especially Battra . Fans of the giant monster movie genre will get a kick out of this one .
015 4 This DVD is available , but only from Classic Media's website . I believe they have made the decision to distribute this and Godzilla Raids Again only thru thier site .
Watching this on my HD TV and using an upconverting player , both versions of the movie look very good . Perfect ? No and I do wish they had taken the effort to clean the prints up ( esp the American version ) .
A great bonus is he audio commentary . It's very interesting and informative . Lots of back story info and a couple of short interviews to boot .
Very nice cover and packaging , the included the Japanese trailer as an extra . A nice addition to my collection .
016 4 This review is from :
Mothra vs . Godzilla ( DVD )
I like the fact that Toho is releasing all there older Monster movies in a new dvd case.I look forward to seeing more of the movies being released so I can add them to my collection . One thing I would have liked to have seen with the movies being redone is to have the audio done in 5.1 dolby sound , than the standard audio format that they were originally done in .
017 4 I like the fact that Toho is releasing all there older Monster movies in a new dvd case.I look forward to seeing more of the movies being released so I can add them to my collection . One thing I would have liked to have seen with the movies being redone is to have the audio done in 5.1 dolby sound , than the standard audio format that they were originally done in .
018 4 At long last American fans of Godzilla can affordably enjoy what many rate as their favorite Godzilla feature . This Sony / Toho Master Series release brings us both the classic AIP dubbed American release print titled Godzilla VS The Thing , and the original Japanese version Mosura Tai Gojira with english subtitles , for those who prefer authenticity . There are great extras including interviews and audio commentary by American Godzilla experts . It's priced irresistably at less than $20 ! I didn't wait on this one , and will always cherish it .
020 4 Picture this : You are Toho Company Ltd . You've just made the biggest success of your 30 + year run this side of Seven Samurai in King Kong vs . Godzilla . Money's coming in from all sides of the globe . What started as a simple movie monster has fast become a household name around the world .
How do you capitalize ? Simple . Put Godzilla in a battle with another movie monster that just happened to make it big . Oh , and put her offspring in the film , too . Adds fuel to the fire .
And with that , THIS my friends , was the pinnacle of Toho's creative success , although I have to agree with one reviewer that Godzilla's greatness was sorely lacking . But foe those wishing for better DVD transfers , you needn't worry , because later this year , Classic Media will be putting out Widescreen , High-Def versions of all the previous CM releases . And thus I leave you with a list of all of Classic Media's acquisitions :
1 . Godzilla ( 1954 , Japanese , American versions )
2 . Godzilla Raids Again ( 1955 , presumably )
3 . Rodan ( 1957 )
4 . Godzilla vs . Mothra ( 1964 )
5 . Ghidrah , The Three Headed Monster ( presumably )
6 . Godzilla vs . Monster Zero ( 1965 )
7 . Frankenstein Conquers the World ( 1965 )
8 . War of the Gargantuas ( 1966 )
9 . Godzilla's Revenge ( 1969 )
10 . Last Days of Planet Earth ( 1973 , presumably )
11 . Terror of Mechagodzilla ( 1975 )
See ya soon !
021 4 I don't know how many minutes are cut from the original but the sequence the fairies sung in the island was terrible , since some lines ( not whole song but sentences sometimes , musical bars , i mean ) was lost in this DVD . . .
the movie itself is good .
022 4 This flick is the 3rd or 4th in the 90s series reviving Godzilla and the other monsters . It is more colorful and action-packed than the original and with fuller sub-plots and twists .
A meteorite crashes into the Pacific , awakening Godzilla and Battra , a vengeful dark version of Mothra . On a trip to Infant Island to review the ecological damage done by careless development , the main characters discover a gian egg and the remains of an ancient civilization and the Earth Cosmos , twins who personify the Earth . They tell of an ancient battle between Battra and Mothra . Battra was created by Earth , a living organism , to avenge the damage done by humans . Mothra defeats Battra but the battle detroys the civilization and melts the polar ice caps . The egg is Mothra's .
While towing the egg to Japan , Godzilla appears and attacks the egg but Mothra escapes and tries to battle . Then Battra appears and fights Godzilla while Mothra wisely swims away . The two clash in a terrific underwater battle that causes an earthquake .
The Cosmos are kidnapped and summon Mothra's aid , who wrecks Tokyo recuing them . Mothra metamorphosizes into the adult Mothra while Battra does the same . The two fight but Godzilla appears and attacks Battra . Mothra comes to Battra's aid and the two defeat Godzilla temporarily . WHile carrying Godzilla , he awakens and kills Battra and the 2 fall into the sea . Mothra flies away into space to stop an oncoming meteor .
The flick has a strong ecological message but it fails in many ways . Why is Godzilla even in this flick ? Why did Mothra and battra become allies ? It glosses over the idea of the ancient civilization , possibly MU , which was Megalon's domain but they didn't bring Megalon back .
The special effects are terrific , including Mothra's laser antennae but they're not enough to make this one a winner . As far as the series goes , Mothra's flight takes Godzilla's DNA into space which sets the stage for Space Godzilla so get it to complete the series .
025 4 This review is from :
Mothra vs . Godzilla ( DVD )
Mothra vs . Godzilla Toho Masters collection is an excellent DVD . Well worth the price . The only disappointment was the print for the english-dubbed version . I was hoping they would have used a better one .
026 4 Mothra vs . Godzilla Toho Masters collection is an excellent DVD . Well worth the price . The only disappointment was the print for the english-dubbed version . I was hoping they would have used a better one .
028 4 The original Japanese theatrical release is remastered and looks pristine . However , this is not the case with the American English dubbed version . Classic Media should've reconsidered cleaning up the American version as one may want to watch it as an alternative to reading and concentrating on the subtitles .
Included on the dvd are features that are welcomed by die hard fans of Godzilla but personally I would've wanted interviews with stars of the film-giving their insights on the movie , experience in filming scenes etc . It especially would've been a treat if they were able to get an exclusive interview with the peanuts .
In short , this should be in any Godzilla collection especially for completists .
031 4 Out of all the movies from the Showa era of Godzilla , this is definitely the one that stands out the most after the original . The special effects are amazing for it's time . Watching the movie , I am amazed what they were able to pull off , such as the giant Mothra egg . Another cool thing about the movie is that it has a lot of actors who would later star in many Godzilla movies , so the choice of actors is also really good . My question always is , where did the twin girls from Infant Island get those fancy clothes when the island they come from is so primitive . They must have took them off of a doll ! Overall , a classic movie that has aged a little , but still looks amazing after all of these years .
033 4 As an avid kaiju fan , I can give a certain amount of leeway to these movies . The often campy horror mixed in with rotten English dubbing is no longer a tough pill to swallow for me . Asinine plots with meandering writing roll right off my back when presented with a nice dose of Godzilla blowing up Japan .
Yet Godzilla Versus Mothra , keeps such problems to a bare minimum . This movie needs to be viewed not simply by kaiju eiga fans , but by everyone . Its messages for humanity are still yet to be heeded , and as they say , Those who forget history are doomed to repeat it .
The setting of Godzilla Versus Mothra , is Japan in 1964 . Naturally , the effects of World War II were still being felt in Japan , with especially high tensions in regard to atomic weaponry . The story gets rolling when a giant egg washes ashore in Japan , prompting a news investigation . Unfortunately , before the investigation can truly get underway , a greedy entrepreneur snatches up the rights to the egg so that his boss and he can construct a theme park centered around it as its main attraction . Tensions increase between the news team and the wealthy exploitation masters when ridiculously small twin women from Monster Island demand that the egg be returned . Of course , money makes the world go round and nothing can be done to persuade the business men to relinquish the egg . Not even the timely appearance of Godzilla .
Eventually , the news team goes to Monster Island , right off the coast of Japan , in order to plea for help against Godzilla . While reluctant at first , the denizens eventually agree to send Mothra to do battle with Godzilla , although such a deal only works as Mothra is eager to reclaim its egg .
Mothra and Godzilla have an interesting relationship . No , it's not a sexual one , but their life stories are quite similar . Godzilla was born from the radiation of the atomic bombs dropped on Japan at the end of World War II , and Mothra was born from nuclear testing on Monster Island . This relationship seems to convey exactly the sides of good and evil : When dealing with unfortunate circumstance , will you aid people or will you destroy ? Essentailly , thats what we're dealing with in terms of Mothra and Godzilla . Godzilla is the ultimate destroyer , and Mothra is the ultimate defender . Imagine things on a smaller scale , both idealogically and in terms of literal size , and you'll find a worthy comparison to our everyday life .
Of course , there's also the typical Godzilla message of the dangers of atomic experimentation . Radiation does no good to the world as Godzilla Versus Mothra , tries despearately to convey . Buried beneath this , however , is an even more hopeful message of reincarnation and the generations to come : When Mothra first does battle with Godzilla , he fails to defeat the giant lizard and is killed . Mothra's egg hatches as a direct result of Mothra's death , as the twins explain earlier in the movie . Essentially , when Mothra dies he is reborn as the larvae from his egg . These larvae are eventually what defeat Godzilla . If you take things from a more theoritical perspective , Godzilla Versus Mothra , is conveying a hope for the younger generation to do away with the terrible power of atomic bombs , but such a hope can only be carried on through the knowledge of the older generation . Those who forget history are doomed to repeat it .
Of course , the outer layer of this yolk is laden with delicious monster on monster action . Despite being made in the mid - 1960 ' s , Godzilla Versus Mothra , boasts some impressive fight sequences . Naturally , everything is absolutely basking in the thick cheese that is kaiju eiga , so such impressive fight sequences often involve a man in a rubber suit wildly stepping on toy tanks . Yet this cheese is to be expected . What isn't so expected are those deep , involving messages that manage to be delivered even admist poor English dubbing and a man in a giant lizard suit . My only real complaint with this movie is with the ridiculous inhabitants of Monster Island : Japanese people painted red adorned in stereotypical tribal gear , complete with cliche worship rituals . It's a shame that a movie that excels in every other facet as to sink so low during those points of the story . Still , glimpses of a cheesy story do not hinder Godzilla Versus Mothra from being perhaps the finest kaiju eiga ever created .
034 4 Wow ! Japan actually has a clue to what they are filming ! What a great Godzilla film with Mothra . If you liekd the orginal Mothra movie then you would enjoy this one . Even the Little Twins are in it ! Mosura ! ! Mosuraaa ! ! Mosuraa ! ! ! !
035 4 Godzilla vs . Mothra is everything King Kong vs . Godzilla should have been . The entire film oozes quality . Drama , Plot , Effects are spot on perfect . The pacing of the film is just right , action seems to proceed naturally throughout . The music for this movie is awesome . If all the Godzilla movies had been this good , I probably wouldn't have a life , because I would keep watching them over and over again . : - )
036 4 Godzilla vs . Mothra ( aka ) Godzilla vs . The Thing is unquestionably
The best Godzilla movie ever made .
This one has it all . Good characters , Paganistic savages worshiping idols on a remote island , the twins fairies , army tanks and army men being squashed like bugs , plus lots and lots of explosions .
Any serious Godzilla fan would argue that if they were stranded on a desert island and could only have one Godzilla movie - This would be it .
The story is fast paced , the characters are interesting and you actually feel remorse for Mothra when Godzilla defeats her . ( Thats not the end of the movie-trust me there is more to come )
Unfortunately this release is not letterboxed and has no extras , but for the low price it deserves a place in any monster movie fans library .
Put the wife and kids to bed early on a Friday Night , order yourself a totally cheesy pizza and grab a cold one so you can totally kick back and enjoy this nostalgic masterpiece from a simpler time . Enjoy and let Godzilla rule ! ! !
037 4 This film is the best of the sequels from the first Godzilla series . There are touches of humor interspersed in the action , but it is not a silly movie by any means ( unlike some of those that followed it ) . I don't know what it is about Mothra , but he is just a great monster - - it is hard to even call him a monster because he somehow manages to emote real emotions . I cannot help but root him on , even against Godzilla . To my eyes , the Mothra special effects are very well done , especially when he directly attacks Godzilla . . Knowing that he ( or she ? ) was using up what little strength he had in order to fend off the big lizard and protect his own egg made me really respect and empathize with him . When his strength was all gone and he came down to earth with one massive wing protectively covering his giant egg , I was actually quite touched .
Of course , you have to love the twins from Mothra Island . They really help make this movie one of Godzilla's best . We don't know why they are so small , but we know their island has been all but decimated as a result of nuclear testing - - the traditional anti-nuclear argument is made quite forcefully when our Japanese protagonists visit the island to ask for Mothra's help in defeating Godzilla . What I love most about the twins is their singing - - I have no idea what they are saying , but their voices are beautiful . One of the great strengths of this film is the entire musical score , arguably the best of the series .
Sure , the Mothra larvae aren't that impressive to look at , but they get the job done . This movie is somewhat unusual because there really aren't that many scenes of monster battles or wholesale destruction . Godzilla doesn't spend much time stomping around just for the sheer enjoyment of it , and he doesn't do anything as specific as picking up a trainload of people and tossing them aside . The obligatory tanks and airplanes attack , but they are as ineffective as usual against the big guy . When he squares off with Mothra , he has to stand in one place and fight the winged creature off ; later on , the larvae cannot come up and duke it out with the big guy but instead must rely on their ability to spew silky cocoon-like fluid . These fights were definitely not conducted on Godzilla's own terms .
This is a truly classic , must-see selection in the Godzilla video library . The storyline is relatively strong , the special effects are quite good , the music is excellent , and the monsters put on a pretty good show . If you want to see Godzilla in hand-to-hand combat with other big green guys , check out one of the later films ; if you want to see how good a Godzilla movie can be when great care goes into the writing and production efforts , Godzilla vs . Mothra is your movie .
039 4 For being a long time fan of Godzilla , I was really impressed with this film however there are certain areas that get me annoyed . Firstly I am used to seeing Godzilla as the hero in his films but this one is no exception . Instead , the film is more focused on two bugs Mothra and Battra . Mothra has also improved in terms of ability and Battra looks amazing and has cool abilities which I think makes him a better foe rather than having two clumsy bumpkins like Gigan and Megalon . Anyway , the film itself is great and there loads of action scenes to keep you in your seat . But the only thing that annoyed me was the fact that Godzilla losing to two bugs sounds pretty daft . But even so , I give it four stars mainly because of the special effects and the fight scenes are not bad either .
If your a Godzilla fan , then this is the film for you . It just makes me think that if two bugs can beat Godzilla , then how . . . does Godzilla beat a foe like King Ghidora ! ! !
040 4 great movie but the best part was when mothra talked to battra thats why I gave it 5 stars
041 4 After the last three spectacular Hesei series entries , this one seemed a bit of a letdown . Don't get get me wrong , it is a fun movie , but it is more Mothra than Godzilla . The real conflict is between the two bugs Mothra and the ultra cool Battra . ( It should've been Godzilla vs . Battra ! ) Godzilla seems to have nothing particular to do except get in the way of the battling bugs . Mothra is updated with new weapons and Battra is perhaps the most impressive foe since King Ghidorah ! This isn't particularly one of Godzilla's best outings , but if you - like me - are a Godzilla fan , you'll love it !
042 4 It's wonderful that this , the best of all the Godzilla films , can be seen in its full format in the crystal imagery of DVD . But , considering the audio channel and subtitling capability of DVD , its almost unforgivable that this move has been released with only a dubbed audio channel ! The dubbing for all the Godzilla films robs you of your chance to fully enjoy the performances of some of Japan's best actors ( Takarada , Fujuki , Sahara , and Tazaki ) and gives the film an extra level of silliness that hurts it . Come on , this is DVD ! Simitar must really be a cheap company if that can't muster up the energy to provide a Japanese language track and English subtitles .
043 4 This review is from :
Mothra vs . Godzilla ( DVD )
This fine film is destroyed by the titles . Some are on the film itself and some are on the black band below the image . The former are hard to read . But worst of all , some are split between both of the above and will give you a horrible headache . Why doesn't anyone seem to care about the placement of titles ? A fun film that deserves better .
047 4 When Godzilla reared his angry head again , Toho studios wanted something good to take him on . Winging her way in from her own premier movie , Mothra is just what is needed to put the big guy down .
Godzilla vs . Mothra ( Mosura tai Gojira or Mothra vs . Godzilla in Japanese , ) is a great sequel in the first series of Godzilla flicks . After the overly-campy Godzilla vs . King Kong , Toho studios took a back-to-basics approach with the mighty lizard , designing a new , more menacing suit and allowing him to rampage over such familiar landmarks as Nagoya Castle . This new suit is famous amongst Godzilla fans , and was unfortunately damaged during production .
Crossing over from the film Mothra , Emi and Yumi Ito , the Fairy Twin's known as the Shobijin , come to Japan to attempt to reclaim Mothra's egg which was dislodged by a typhoon . Profit-minded executives see money in the colossal egg , and refuse to return it . Godzilla arrives . Mothra arrives . Giant monster battle ensues .
This DVD , however , is a terrible presentation of a good film . There is no original language track , which should be absolutely shameful when presenting a non-English movie . Also , the US release is altered from the Japanese original , including extra scenes of a Frontier Missile that were filmed at the request of the American studios , who felt it was patriotic .
048 4 While I fondly remember this Godzilla movie from childhood , probably due to it being perhaps the very first Godzilla movie I had seen , it somehow just doesn't strike me as being the very best of the Godzilla franchise . I have no arguments with the main story or the effects , which for the time period are not too embarrassing considering this is a Godzilla movie . Rather it's the manner in which Godzilla is depicted . From the very outset he seems clumsy and not very ferocious . Where is the greatness ? The mighty Godzilla first appears in the movie as he wakes up in a field , begins to wreck havoc and proceeds to get his tail caught in a radio transmission tower . He is then hit by the tower as it crashes down on him and shortly thereafter , trips and falls almost drunkenly into a Japanese temple building , demolishing it in a very haphazard way .
He seems disoriented throughout his battle with Mothra , the giant moth that is called on to protect the world . And as the movie reaches its climax he simply stands there and growls as he gets cocooned by 2 small moth larvae and falls helplessly into the sea .
It all seems so unlike the destructive , foreboding , Godzilla originally depicted in his very first incarnation in 1954 . I don't know if they were trying to develop Godzilla's character as more sympathetic by showing his bumbling , confused side but it just doesn't really work . I think that many people lose sight of the fact that the original Godzilla was intended as a metaphor for nuclear destruction and curiously the producers of Godzilla vs . Mothra seemed to have ignored that crucial plot point as well . It would be obvious to me in order to create a sense of terror that Godzilla should be depicted , as originally conceived , as undeniably powerful , unwavering and having no apparent motivation or purpose other than to use his overwhelming indiscriminate destructive force against the world . Perhaps Toho was deliberately attempting to attract American audiences and felt the best method was to soften Godzilla's image . It may have been the correct strategy , as it is difficult to continually present the same character only as an antagonistic monster without allowing for even a small portion of human appeal . However , the character flaws are jarringly abrupt and a more measured approach might have been more appropriate .
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On the plus side , the battle with the army and navy and the electrocution sequence were all well done and seem just as impressive today as they did in the sixties when this movie was first released . Unimpressive though is the depiction of the military at that time , which always appeared to have had such bad aim . They unleash a barrage of missiles and shells at Godzilla to halt his rampage only to completely miss their target time after time .
The mother Mothra creature is effective and certainly provides an interesting contrast to the giant radioactive lizard of Godzilla . It is interesting to note that Mothra's weapon in fighting Godzilla is the powerful wind that is created by flapping its gigantic wings . A somewhat more natural means of attack compared to Godzilla's blasting heat breath . Could Mothra and the native islanders that worship it , represent society's backlash against nuclear proliferation ?
All in all it is at times perplexing , but nonetheless enjoyable and I recommend it for its genre defining soundtrack , engaging storytelling , well realized human characters and simple yet effective special effects . On the other hand , I take away points for it's portrayal of Godzilla . And while certainly more endearing ; he is now beginning to take on a more comical side . He stumbles through some of this picture as if he doesn't belong and appears as significantly less than a great and terrifying monster .
Many fans of Godzilla cite this movie as their all time favorite and call it the best Godzilla movie made . I would rate the original Godzilla film from 1954 and the underrated and more successful , King Kong vs . Godzilla , both in their original Japanese incarnation , as superior .
050 4 Poor Godzilla . this is a very sad movie because Godzilla didn't win , only Mothra won - how sad - I thought watching Godzilla as he was tumbling down into the water . If you really love Godzilla then don't buy this movie , this movie is only for people who hate Godzilla .
051 4 Godzilla films have always had a reputation as being cheap , campy nonsense and are often treated poorly when released on DVD . At least when Classic Media released their new series of Godzilla DVDs they made an effort to treat these films with the respect they deserve but never got .
To start off , Mothra vs . Godzilla is my favourite Godzilla movie , perhaps even better than the original . The special effects are pretty good ( keep in mind the film was made in 1964 ) , the story is a fine example of how Toho monster movies of the time set themselves apart from their American counterparts and Akira Ifukube's score is , in my opinion , one of the greatest film scores ever written ( up there with the Themes for Star Wars or Star Trek )
The DVD , while much better than previous releases , has some strengths but also some flaws . It's greatest strength is the fact that it marks the first time the original , unedited , undubbed Japanese version was released in North America . The picture quality is pretty good and so is the audio . The subtitles could have been better : one scene the priest prays to the gods to protect the people from any courses ( I'm sure they mean curses ) but that aside the Japanese version is very good .
Unfortunately if feels like the Japanese version is the only feature Classic Media seems to care about . The edited U.S . version ( Godzilla vs . the Thing ) is in bad shape , full of scratches , hairs , grain and is cropped to 1.78 : 1 aspect ratio . After watching the Japanese version in its original 2.35 : 1 aspect ratio , watching this version felt like I was watching my old pan and scan VHS copy .
The special features while decent , are somewhat slim . The audio commentary is pretty insightful into the making of the film and it's U.S . release , the Japanese trailer is also in as good a condition as the Japanese version of the film but for some strange reason they didn't add subtitles to it , so unless you can speak and read Japanese you won't understand what's being said or written on screen . Sadly they didn't bother adding the U.S . trailer as a special feature . Personally I think Classic Media thinks we'll just be happy to have the Japanese version of the film ; and they're probably right .
Overall , Mothra vs . Godzilla is a good film with a fair DVD release . It could have been better but it's probably the best were going to get .
052 4 This review is from :
Mothra vs . Godzilla ( DVD )
Mothra vs . Godzilla features one of Godzilla's finest screen appearances , with human drama and spectacular monster action coming together to create a near-flawless daikaiju picture . Classic Media presents an excellent DVD release , with both the original Japanese version and the 1964 American International Pictures release ( under the original A.I.P . title Godzilla vs . the Thing ) . This film is one of the few Toho monster fests whose American release version surpasses the original .
This Toho classic depicts Godzilla at his all-time best , featuring one of the most impressive Godzilla suit designs and some of Eiji Tsuburaya's finest special effects work . Virtually every scene featuring Godzilla was composed to be visually spectacular , and the innovative effects work holds up admirably , even after 40 + years . Akira Ifukube composed a memorable score , which perfectly complements the film and establishes motifs that have become synonymous with Godzilla over the years .
While the original Japanese version contains a few minor scenes that aren't present in the American release , it is missing one of the best-realized effects sequences shot for the film - - the Frontier missile attack scene . Most likely , this is because the attack is carried out by the U.S . Navy , which , at the time , would have flown in the face of Japanese sensibilities .
The Classic Media DVD is superb , although the aspect ratio of the U.S . version is cropped to be narrower than the original widescreen ( due to it otherwise being the best available print , I understand ) . It's a small issue , so this DVD release receives top recommendation .
053 4 Mothra vs . Godzilla features one of Godzilla's finest screen appearances , with human drama and spectacular monster action coming together to create a near-flawless daikaiju picture . Classic Media presents an excellent DVD release , with both the original Japanese version and the 1964 American International Pictures release ( under the original A.I.P . title Godzilla vs . the Thing ) . This film is one of the few Toho monster fests whose American release version surpasses the original .
This Toho classic depicts Godzilla at his all-time best , featuring one of the most impressive Godzilla suit designs and some of Eiji Tsuburaya's finest special effects work . Virtually every scene featuring Godzilla was composed to be visually spectacular , and the innovative effects work holds up admirably , even after 40 + years . Akira Ifukube composed a memorable score , which perfectly complements the film and establishes motifs that have become synonymous with Godzilla over the years .
While the original Japanese version contains a few minor scenes that aren't present in the American release , it is missing one of the best-realized effects sequences shot for the film - - the Frontier missile attack scene . Most likely , this is because the attack is carried out by the U.S . Navy , which , at the time , would have flown in the face of Japanese sensibilities .
The Classic Media DVD is superb , although the aspect ratio of the U.S . version is cropped to be narrower than the original widescreen ( due to it otherwise being the best available print , I understand ) . It's a small issue , so this DVD release receives top recommendation .
054 4 Wow . . . I watched the original film Gojira about 2 hourse before watching Mothra vs . Godzilla . . . talk about a drastic change in tone ! Whereas Gojira is a dark tale about the horrors of the nuclear age . . . Mothra vs . Godzilla is simply fun . Sure there is a no-nukes message in MvG as well , it's just that the messenger is quite different this time around .
When a huge egg washes up on the beach after a typhoon , some greedy businessman buys the egg from the local villagers , and he plans on making it a huge tourist attraction . Two little trophy top sisters arrive from Infant Island and beg the businessmen to give the egg back as it belongs to Mothra the defender of their island . The singing duo are worried that when the egg hatches the larvae could cause lots of damage . When they are refused the egg , the girls return to their bomb blasted island atop their giant moth friend . Of course , this is when Godzilla decides to attack . . . and the only hope of stopping him lies with the mini-girls and Mothra .
This is a fun entry in the series . Mothra is a fun adversary , as are the larvae . This movie also features one of the best Godzilla awakening moments in the series as he burst out of the ground . The only issue I had with this entry is that Godzilla comes off as a clumsy oaf at times . The damage Godzilla causes seems to be almost accidental , at one point getting his tail caught in a large tower , pulling the structure down trying to free himself and then running into some buildings because of it . At another time , he's walking along and trips falling into a castle and clawing it apart as he tries to maintain his balance . Even in his showdown with Mothra the big guy trips and falls down a hill ?
The battles are fun , and tons of miniature tanks , buildings , bridges etc . get torn up in the process , so what else could you ask for . Not the best in the series , but far from the worst .
055 4 Before the Godzilla series spiraled into silliness in the late 60s and early 70s , Toho churned out a few decent films such as this one . With great special effects by Eiji Tsuburaya , a brilliant musical score by Akira Ifukube , and non-stop action , Mothra vs . Godzilla is easily one of the best in the series .
Unlike the Showa films that followed this , Godzilla is portrayed here as an unstoppable , destructive force of nature . In a series of impressive battle sequences that take up most of the second half of the film , Godzilla rampages across Japan and continuously defeats all of the military's plans to stop him . Godzilla's battle with Mothra is brief but engaging , and while it's not quite the visual spectacle that the Yokohama battle in the 1992 semi-remake Godzilla vs . Mothra is , it still holds up well today .
Overall , this film is a must for any fan of the genre , and it is noteworthy for being the last Showa era film to portray Godzilla as a villain . I can't help but think that if Toho had continued to make movies this good throughout the 60s and 70s , the Godzilla series would have been an even greater success .
056 4 My second Classic Media DVD and one of marvelous quality . As with all of this collection's DVDs , the menu is exciting with music from the title theme and of course some nice special features Steve Ryfle and Ed Godziszewski provide the commentary . I always enjoy thier commentaries because they are so into it : a G-fan's dream come true ! ! This DVD is great but I wish Classic Media would release other less fortunate G-films , like King Kong vs . Godzilla and Destroy All Monsters , both having thier Japanese versions completely unavailable
057 4 This review is from :
Mothra vs . Godzilla ( DVD )
Godzilla vs . Mothra is probably one of Godzilla's best face off movies . Even though the movie sounds kind of weird thinking of Godzilla battling a giant Moth is kind of stupid . There is a reason why Godzilla vs . Mothra is considered by many as one the greatest , this is the movie that established just how indestructible Godzilla really is to convectional weapons . The film also has what I call the Godzilla Theme when Godzilla makes his appearence in the film . When the film came out in America it was called Godzilla vs . The Thing . That has to be one the dumbest dubbed titles I have ever heard . Godzilla vs . Mothra is way better by a mile .
058 4 Godzilla vs . Mothra is probably one of Godzilla's best face off movies . Even though the movie sounds kind of weird thinking of Godzilla battling a giant Moth is kind of stupid . There is a reason why Godzilla vs . Mothra is considered by many as one the greatest , this is the movie that established just how indestructible Godzilla really is to convectional weapons . The film also has what I call the Godzilla Theme when Godzilla makes his appearence in the film . When the film came out in America it was called Godzilla vs . The Thing . That has to be one the dumbest dubbed titles I have ever heard . Godzilla vs . Mothra is way better by a mile .
059 4 When I was a child i only had my parents ' word as to whether or not certain films were worth watching . Godzilla , the original b & w classic , was apparently my mother's favorite . i watched it with certain degrees of enthusiasm . Later my enthusiasm grew when one of the local stations in my town started showing these classic films on Saturday afternoons . With my dad watching them with me , talking for the monsters so that I knew what they were saying ( and believe me they were very foul mouthed towards each other ) , I fell in love with these . As i got older , I learned more of the histories behind these classics , and soon became a huge fan wanting not only the movies , but the chance to watch them in their original japanese to see what differences there were .
This is the film that introduced one og Godzilla's greatest enemies who would from time to time become an ally , but then always revert back to being an enemy . Mothra is ( obviously due to lack of ability to name things ) , a giant moth with no intention of destroying anyone or anything . in fact , as later movies will reveal , she's a part of the earth we never really understood . This is the movie that shows that Godzilla like an early morning breakfast consisting of eggs as much as any other hungry person in the world . LOL
I won't reveal plots , talk about acting , glorify the use of minatures , because you need to see these movies in order to appreciate them fully . I paid a miniscule price for a lifetime of fond memories and highly reccommend adding this movie to your collection .
060 4 Mothra vs . Godzilla is one of the best Godzilla films ever . The bright colors , the excellent special effects , the monster action , and a basic , yet interesting plot all come together and make this movie what it is . This movie is just pure fun for any fan of giant monsters and / or old-school sci-fi flicks . This movie is also a lot less campy than the future films in the series . As a sci-fi film , it's four stars , but among Godzilla films , it's easily five .
If you're already a Godzilla fan , don't hesitate to pick this up as soon as you can !
063 4 Classic Media does it again . If you are a Godzilla fan , buy this 4th film in the series ( I hope they get the rights to King Kong vs . Godzilla ) . I've already pre-ordered the next two films because I've been that impressed with the bang up job Classic Media has done with this character . Bravo .
065 4 This review is from :
Mothra vs . Godzilla ( DVD )
The best-loved of the Godzilla sequels and the film that set most Westerner's perceptions of the Kaiju genre , Mothra Vs . Godzilla doesn't hold up as well as memory has it . Yes , it has the iconic image of the giant egg on the beach and it has a couple of tiny singing fairy girls , but it's not exactly a lavish production nor a particularly exciting one . It's a long wait for Godzilla's first appearance ( 32 minutes ) and a longer one for some monster-on-monster action ( a full hour , although the US version does include a brief but spectacular scene cut from the Japanese version of the US Navy shelling Godzilla ) , and when it comes it has to be said that Mothra and it's two caterpillar offspring aren't exactly the most exciting of critters , with a very limited bag of tricks between them . Still , the sequence where Godzilla's head ( quite accidentally ) catches fire is quite striking . It's also of note for being the last Godzilla film for twenty years to present the big feller as his original evil destructive self , with subsequent films presenting him as the protector of Japan .
After their sterling efforts on the first film in the series , Classic Media's DVD is something of a disappointment : the original subtitled Japanese version is in a 2.35 : 1 widescreen ratio but looks like a somewhat soft standards conversion with a somewhat dupey look to the color , while the dubbed American version retitled Godzilla Vs . The Thing is presented in a cropped 1.85 : 1 with not much better picture quality . The audio commentary on the American version is good and there's a nice brief featurette about series composer Akira Ifukube , though otherwise only the unsubtitled Japanese trailer is included alongside a poster gallery .
066 4 The best-loved of the Godzilla sequels and the film that set most Westerner's perceptions of the Kaiju genre , Mothra Vs . Godzilla doesn't hold up as well as memory has it . Yes , it has the iconic image of the giant egg on the beach and it has a couple of tiny singing fairy girls , but it's not exactly a lavish production nor a particularly exciting one . It's a long wait for Godzilla's first appearance ( 32 minutes ) and a longer one for some monster-on-monster action ( a full hour , although the US version does include a brief but spectacular scene cut from the Japanese version of the US Navy shelling Godzilla ) , and when it comes it has to be said that Mothra and it's two caterpillar offspring aren't exactly the most exciting of critters , with a very limited bag of tricks between them . Still , the sequence where Godzilla's head ( quite accidentally ) catches fire is quite striking . It's also of note for being the last Godzilla film for twenty years to present the big feller as his original evil destructive self , with subsequent films presenting him as the protector of Japan .
After their sterling efforts on the first film in the series , Classic Media's DVD is something of a disappointment : the original subtitled Japanese version is in a 2.35 : 1 widescreen ratio but looks like a somewhat soft standards conversion with a somewhat dupey look to the color , while the dubbed American version retitled Godzilla Vs . The Thing is presented in a cropped 1.85 : 1 with not much better picture quality . The audio commentary on the American version is good and there's a nice brief featurette about series composer Akira Ifukube , though otherwise only the unsubtitled Japanese trailer is included alongside a poster gallery .
067 4 this review is based on a CBC late night broadcast >
In my opinion , the best of all Godzilla movies ! The first original title , I believe , is Gogira > while definitely a classic , but a little anti climactic with the poor underwater scenes thogh they did their best > .
Synopsis : A enormous Airbus-size egg is washed onto the shores of a Japanese harbour . A greedy , enterprising businessman , who is developing a huge adjacent property , sees the profit in such a venture to display this oddity of nature , washed up on the beach from Mothra's / It's Island where atomic experimentation had taked place . Mothra and It are used interchangably in the dubbed dialogue ; a little confusing but the lip sync is suprisingly good compared to other dubbed films > .
A very pretty photographer and her reporter freind from a local newspaper put their noses a little too deep into the story and eventually wake Godzilla who happens to be hibernating on the land about to be developed .
In the meantime , two miniature women from It's Island plead for the return of Mothra's egg , warning catastrophe is inevitable if the greedy people do not concede . Godzilla , being extremely pissed off for having been woken , proceeds to wreak destruction across the city .
At this point , it is worth mentioning that , while the expensive high speed photography is gone despite rumours , it was not because of budgetary restrictions but the colour film stocks at that time were not fast enough to produce acceptable results > , the various effects in this chapter of the big , bad rubber guy are likely the best of the series . The animated lightning in one of the attempts to destroy Godzilla are very well done and the matte lines sometimes referred to as split screen > are all but invisible .
Having been refused the return of Mothra's egg who is reffered to as he , tho it's a silly oversight > the scientists who realize the extent of the danger ask the inhabitants of Mothra's Island to help them destroy Godzilla .
This is the part of the film that has a suprising twist . I won't tell the ending but this particular chapter of the film is suprisingly touching and the dialogue is intelligent . The discussion between the girls , natives and scientists is very insightful and lends much to the film's narration . .
The small women are strangely haunting . While the movie is great fun for a rainy Saturday with young family members , on a late night in the dark , on first viewing , this movie is certainly the most prophetic and insightful of the Godzilla series .
Mothra attempts to defeat Godzilla to protect its offspring and fails in the end . Warming the egg after it's death , the egg hatches with twin larvae that avenge it's parent's death .
While future Toho movies centered around more action , destruction and explosions , which is all great fun , this is likely the only one of the series that , taken in context , is memorable and leaves afterthoughts .
If you choose one Godzilla movie to own , this is definately the one to get . Stands up to repeated viewing and while there are no wrestling matches as in later 70s entries , and miniatures are obviously miniatures , the film holds up to it's name with a great story , haunting music , great effects and an open ended conclusion to allow fun but inferior movies to come .
Highly recommended ! ! !
069 4 Actually I rate this so I because mothra is new an improve i mean wow we went from a moth that looks like cheap moth you swat with your hand to this motha that kicks butt with some new weapons up its sleeve.Battra was really cool even larva stage he can do damage.Of course the twins are introduce again and of course act the same but overal this movie is a good G flick .
070 4 First off , this movie is a classic , and should be seen . But it's not the best Godzilla movie I've seen ; furthermore , this movie tends to drag its feet around . In short , this movie seems too long even though it's a short film .
Most of the movie is dominated by Human Scenes . There are some humorous moments , but they're much more subtle , and far less in number than I hoped for . To be sure , the Human Scenes do engage the audience to certain point initially , but before the movie's conclusion , the Human Scenes feel as though they overstayed their welcome .
Part of the reason for this is the lack of Monster Scenes - not to mention the fact that Godzilla doesn't appear until the 30th minute .
And as far as Monster Battles go , there are four - but only two feature Monster-on-Monster action :
1 ) Godzilla vs . the Military
2 ) Godzilla vs . the Military
3 ) Godzilla vs . Mothra
4 ) Godzilla vs . Mothra's two offspring
That might seem like a lot , but it certainly didn't feel like it . The two military scenes are done well enough , but the last battle ( s ) wasn't as fun as I remembered it . And for me , I'm most enthralled by Kaiju movies when two or more monsters are going at it . The climactic fight certainly wasn't bad , but it certainly wasn't the best I've seen .
All in all , I definitely recommend this movie , but I did feel that the Human Scenes dominated too much of the screen's focus . The scenes did flow logically enough - but for me , there wasn't an adequate number of good Monster Scenes . And I didn't much enjoy waiting 30 minutes to see Godzilla .
071 4 Let it be known that I'm an avid Godzilla fan , and I wanted some DVDs for my new DVD player , so I bought this DVD . Boy , was I disappointed ! There's really only 3 extras on the DVD - - interactive menus with scene selection , a Destroy All Monsters Game Cube promo , and audio set-up options ( english mono and 5.1 Surround sound ) . The 5.1 Surround sound echoes and sounds unbarable . Options to change the language to Japanese , and add / remove subtitles would've been nice , as I don't care for dubs . The picture's quality is really bad - - there's scratches , and what not , making it seem like a bad video transfer . Still , the promo's pretty cool , the animated intro by Mothra's kinda neat . Overall , this DVD is worth picking up only if you can't get a hold of Simitar's superior version .
072 4 one of the best motion pictures toho did and iam glad they made a great fight between godzilla and mothra what is the outcome ? well that you have to find out yourself you aint getting the info out of me
073 4 Godzilla vs Mothra : The Battle for Earth is the longest titled Godzilla film and one of the best .
Rating 4 out of 5
This film remains true to the original Mothra with a great plot , subplot , characters and monsters . I especially like Battra , who kicked butt and died to save all our hides . The scenes of Mothra searching for it s masters is
beautifully done , with a nice red horizon in the background . Unfortunately , creators create new Cosmos . They re now done up in red and gold dresses with pulled back hairdos . Their singing can be quite annoying , and their new
costumes makes them no where near as cute as in the original , where they were done up in neat little gray parkas with white fuzz . That was the straw that broke the camels back , in my own opinion . I give this a * * * * .
074 4 . . . Godzilla vs . Mothra is everything King Kong vs . Godzilla should have been . The entire film oozes quality . Drama , Plot , Effects are spot on perfect . The pacing of the film is just right , action seems to proceed naturally throughout . The music for this movie is awesome . If all the Godzilla movies had been this good , I probably wouldn't have a life , because I would keep watching them over and over again . : - )
075 4 This one is pretty good . The thing about Godzilla movies , everyone knows they are cheesy ( even the producers ) and know one cares . Mothra is pretty cool ( my personal favorite Godzilla nemesis ) and ya ' gotta love the fairy twins singing to the egg . Keep in mind the rating is done compared to other Godzilla movies , after all Godzilla is in a realm of his own .
077 4 A giant egg floats into Japanese waters after a hurricane . Twin miniature fairies plead for its return to Mothra Island . In a Shakespearean twist of fate , Godzilla attacks and the Japanese enlist Mothra's help . Godzilla's rampages are fine , building toppling fun . The military fights back and the battle rages . As juvenile sci-fi epics go , this one is worth the price . The production values are better than usual . Chuckle-headed humor asserts itself , but plenty of Godzilla screen time keeps the action moving . The Mothra song , as vocalized by the twin fairies , is enshrined in fantasy film folklore . Watching the giant egg hatch is exciting , and recalls a similar scene in Rodan . Lightening flashes and thunder roars as cracks shoot across the egg's surface . The movie falters somewhat after two gigantic baby caterpillars take over for the first Mothra . Godzilla , who shrugged off rockets , bombs , and super-charged electrocution , has trouble with a rough-hewn silk shroud . Go figure . The Peanuts of the first Mothra flick portray the twin fairy girls . With all of the tiny women's mystery , one still lingers over their little faux-fur hats . The script doesn't explain the headgear . The special effects are unsophisticated by modern standards . The monsters are more lovable than today's ice-cold , computer-generated eye-candy . The Harry Potter generation can suit themselves . The venerable I . Honda directed this classic TOHO production . Saturday matinees and popcorn forever ! ; - )
078 4 Godzilla vs . Mothra ( actually , Mosura tai Gojira [ Mothra vs . Godzilla ] ) is the best of the golden age of kaiju eiga ( Japanese giant monster movies ) . It came on the heels of King Kong vs . Godzilla , which , although commericially succesful , was a flawed if entertaining effort . Godzilla vs . Mothra features sprawling , beautiful special effects , an engrossing story and likable characters . Director Inshiro Honda and SFX Director Eiji Tsuburaya , the artistic legends behind the Godzilla legend , are in top form . The score of Maestro Akira Ifukube drives this great spectacle with thundering , memorable themes as well the beautiful themes and songs associated with Mothra , the strangely beautiful giant insect who somehow manages to fight Godzilla to a standstill . Godzilla vs , Mothra is not only a classic , indeed the greatest sequel of the Godzilla series , but one of the greatest science fiction films ever made .
If you want to see the best of the Godzilla series after the 1954 original , Gojira , then see this wonderful epic where all of the hallmarks of kaiju film making are on such grand display : the great kaiju ( monster ) designs ( in fact , many fans of the series consider this Godzilla design , called the Mosu-Goji , the best design of them all ) , the expressive suit acting , the detailed miniatures , stunning visuals and meaniful but entertaining storytelling .
Godzilla vs . Mothra is a wonderful chapter in the world of kaiju eiga ( Japanese Giant Monster movies ) . Treat yourself to this great adventure .
079 4 The third best Godzilla of the series . Once again Toho studios borrows another famous monster and pits it against the King of the Monsters . Godzilla's last apperance of the original series as a evil monster . This was the fourth Film of the series . A Great plot , good spiceal effects , and a good cast . Truely a Godzilla classic .
082 4 Summary : Godzilla wages war against a giant moth and her offspring .
Over all , a good movie with above average monster effects , music , and acting ( for this kind of movie that is ) .
Not to be confused with the later ' 90s version Godzilla and Mothra : The Battle for Earth .
Next is Ghidrah , the Three-Headed Monster .
083 4 The DVD image quality is excellent . I didn't expect much at the budget price , so the sharp , stable , colorful 2.35 : 1 widescreen transfer was a nice surprise . The box says images of superb quality taken from the film's original print . It's usually best to ignore puffery , but here you really do get gorgeous video - - about as good as ( say ) the Bond DVDs of the same vintage . Minor nits : there's some dust at the ends of the reels , and the widescreen transfer is not anamorphic ( that is , not enhanced for 16 : 9 TVs ) .
The 5.1 audio is choppy and strange at times . Whenever the dubbed English pops in , the sound quality changes , almost as if it briefly drops into mono . But part of the joy of vintage Godzilla is its glorious cheezyness . Making it too sterile would cut out its soul .
The DVD extras are negligible . At the price , it's unfair to complain about this . The important thing is that the film itself looks great . If you like Godzilla , don't hesitate .
084 4 This movie was alright . I wasn't impressed though . The final fight was a little poor . I mean come on . What is so amazing about 2 little larveas spraying silk at Godzilla . Not impressive . And the little fairy chicks get annoying . Really annoying . But if you are a fan , get this one any way .
Mothra starts out as an egg thingy , and when people are touring this egg , Godzilla awakes and he's mad . He storms Tokyo and Japan . The mothra awakes into 2 little worms and they spin Godzilla into this little cacoon . Too bad . I actually give this movie a 3 1 / 2 .
085 4 Great Idea , terrific special FX , Fantastic story / plot and some of the most artful acting in the whole run of the Godzilla series , makes this film not only one of the best Godzilla movies , but a great classic that should and better be remembered long from now . Heck its even dubbed good ! And thats really unexpected from a Godzilla movie ! Colorful and breathtaking , Godzilla vs . Mothra is a beautifully made movie . Entertaining for all ages , its an instant hit even to this day . Everything and I mean everything in this movie is done perfectly , Ishrio Honda's directing is masterfull as he well executed the human drama , but didnt forget who the real star of the movie is ( Godzilla ) . Akira Ifukube's beautiful score is recognized as some of the best of his work . And Acadamy Award winning special FX director Eiji Tsuburaya strikes gold with his miniatures , designsand techniques . Godzilla vs . Mothra is defenatly one of the greatest Godzilla films of all time .
086 4 The G-series finally hit its stride with this film . The spfx are absolutely fantastic , full of imagination and spectacle . The letterbox version allows the beautiful screen compositions to really shine and the sound is so much better than previous versions . Eiji Tsubaraya brings a high level of believability to the life-or-death struggle between Mothra and The Big G . The humor is well integrated into the story and does not detract from the serious theme of mankind uniting to face a common threat . A veritable who's who of ToHo's best actors makes up the cast . There is so much to love about this movie ( especially the score by Ifukube ) that , if you have even a passing interest in Japanese monster mayhem , you owe it to yourself to see this film .
087 4 Godzilla vs . the Thing is actually the correct title . The movie was awsome compared to the disapointments that came befor and after it ( by which I mean King Kong vs . Godzilla and Ghidrah , the Three Headed Monster ) . Godzilla looked waaaaaaaaaaaay better than that baggy alligator they showed in King Kong vs . Godzilla . This one is a must-see !
088 4 The fourth film of the Heisei series lacks the complexity and seriousness of the previous entries . It is , however , light-hearted fun that is extremely enjoyable .
The spfx are excellent , except for Mothra who pales in comparison to Eiji Tsubaraya's classic creation . Battra looks good and is suitably mean and ill-tempered . The Big G is powerfully rendered and played with absolute believability by suitmation actor Ken Satsuma . Koichi Kawakita does excellent work throughout . . though his handling of the film's final battle does not compare well to Tsubaraya's work on the original G . vs Mothra .
The plot , though heavy-handed , moves along quickly . The actors , including classic-era actor Akira Takarada , are uniformly engaging . Once again , Akira Ifukube contributes a perfect score .
G . and Mothra may not be the best of the new G series but it is still a very good sci-fi film for all ages .
089 4 Godzilla and Mothra return for the 90 ' s in a film that has far more potential than it actually delivers . Don't get me wrong , the special effects are great , with the final fight in Yokohama rivaling that of Godzilla vs . Mechagodzilla II . The monsters look extremely cool , Godzilla looks better than ever and Mothra looks way better than in the 60 ' s . It's just the insanely bad script and the annoying Cosmos faries that dampen the effect of the monster madness .
090 4 Well , it is a godzilla movie so yeah . . . . some of it is corny , but just about everything was cool except those stupid little fairy people !
094 4 Hooray ! Mothra has come back ! But she is not alone . I think the plot had very good potential , but somehow it just didn't work terribly well . The Cosmos really stole the show by having most of the plot focused on them . Two of the most central characters take a back seat : Godzilla and Miki Saegusa . They kinda don't exist in this movie . However , Battra is inspired . It's kind of like a personified dark side of Mothra . Too bad he gets killed . Mothra 4 should focus on a reborn Battra ( kinda like Gamera 3 did with Gyaos ) .
095 4 I'd say this one is okay , but there's nothing really that great about it . godzilla looks impressive here , but rather clumsy . The special effects are good . plenty of scenes of the milatary attacking godzilla , which are more enjoyable then the fight scenes which are brief and boring , can't understand how godzilla lost to two little catapillars when he just should have stomped em , pretty embarising . However , nothin's worse than listening too those little twin faries singing .
096 4 Mothra vs . Godzilla is one of the best original series movies ever made . It is a true monster classic , boasting Mothra's usual enemies , greedy businessmen , as well as Godzilla . Godzilla himself never looked better and the special effects are very good . And this movie is dubbed well . That surprised me more than anything , but the FX are very good , better than Godzilla vs . Space Godzilla ( that's right , I am talking about the 1964 Godzilla vs . The Thing being better than a movie 30 years younger than it , ) and it is a classic battle . Motha s animated well , and watching Godzilla smash the head of the company is very cool . All in all , this movie has good special effects , good acting , two annoying fairies , a giant moth , and a 164 foot radioactive dinosaur . The extras are only ads for the other 4 movies released by Simitar and various pictures from Godzilla movies . The movie rocks . Buy it .
097 4 This movie is great ! Presented in glorious widescreen . The score is excellent , the battle theme incorperates the Godzilla theme and a Mothra theme , different from that of original Mothra movie . The battle between Godzilla and the adult Mothra is pure genius . Before watching this movie , one might think : How could some large moth even hope to stand a chance against the awesome might of Godzilla ? The film makers answer this question with a bang producing a battle that is beleavable . Mothra uses wind storms produced by her wings , her sheer size , and agility against Godzilla . The special effects are excellent for its time and the story is good , too . Plus it has the two tiny girls . Except no substitutes this film far surpasses its sequel , Godzilla and Mothra : The Battle for Earth . A real sci fi classic !
101 4 Right after King Kong vs G , you wouldn't expect much , but this movie sure delivers ! IT's got a great plot , good dialogue , acting , effects ( for its time period ) and tons of monsters and action . Sure its a little dissapointing that Godzilla loses , but this movie is able to do that final scene with style so you don't mind much .
102 4 Living in the UK , where releases of decent Toho Godzilla films are very thin on the ground indeed , I've never seen the original Mothra films and so can't say whether this ' 92 re-make is better or worse than them .
This re-make involves two giant moths , Mothra and Battra , and two tiny guardians of Mothra who are kidnapped and brought to Tokyo , whereupon Mothra follows to rescue them .
Whilst there is some excellent scenery , some good effects and an okay ( if rather slow-moving ) plot , there are just as many bad points to this film as good ones . The twin guardians are extremely twee and irritating , the opening is a rip-off of an Indiana Jones film and Mothra's egg being transpoted looks like an easter-egg on a dinky toy . Dubbing is also pretty laughable , and the showdown seems to be taking place in a Jean Michel Jarre concert , Godzilla also being fought by the army who have apparently come to the conclusion that military hardware is no good against G and as such are resorting to the use of what look like Christmas decorations .
Not a bad Godzilla film overall , but I would have prefered the powers-that-be to have released one of the better of the series . The original 1950 ' s Godzilla would be nice .
103 4 Okay , Okay , I KNow - - Godzilla fans have never expected great plots to be a part of any great Godzilla flick . But don't you think that Toho Studios - - seeing as they obviously spent a decent amount of yen on new monster sets , outfits , f / x - - couldn't have paid somebody to write a script that might make sense even to a ten year old , or a twelve year old . This flick could have been so much more , though I'll admit that the big-deal American Godzilla flick was a joke with a plot no better than these Toho clunkers . The new 90 ' s Toho Godzilla looks great , as does the more colorful adult , flying Mothra . The worm-stage Mothra , however , still looks like a dinosaur turd . As usual , the original score is outstanding , with the old Mothra song rehashed to pretty good effect by the ridiculously-named Cosmos fairies . All in all , a must-have for Go fans , but I would love to see Toho put out a big-budget Go flick that has a great script . That would show up the Hollywood boys but good !
105 4 Not as good as the new ' 92 version of Godzilla Vs . Mothra . Mothra , the original movie was better than this .
106 4 This DVD was mastered by a monkey . I thought there was something wrong with my player at first . Real bad digital artifacts makes the DVD look like terrible digital video art .
110 4 In this movie Godzilla comes alive and shows the tough side of Godzilla ! He's lookin for trouble and gets Mothra and the dreaded Battra . Battra is flying high with big special effects , but Godzilla takes the chance as to say , Bring it on ! It's really cool ! !
111 4 As godzilla rises , Mothra's egg hatches and Godzilla sees his mortal enemie's larva . Before Godzilla can do anything , another larva called Battra attacks ! This video was very cool . But it stunk when Battra dies and Godzilla was defeated . All ages will love this movie . Go , Go , Godzilla !
113 4 Behind Godzilla vs . The Smog Monster ( criminaly not available on DVD OR video ) this is the best of the Godzilla films , mainly because the subject matter is taken seriously . Godzilla is a nightmare here , not a super-hero . The picture on the Simitar version is so clear it looks like a new film , but the audio ( Like the monsters cries and the original score ) is drowned out by the addition of enhanced sound effects . For example , scenes with fighter planes or bombs dropping seem to have been given new sound effects that drown out the original audio tracks ! This was a bit distracting . Also , the extras which supposedly include Godzilla artwork and trailers are created by Simitar . The artwork is from the DVD covers , and the trailers aren't original at all , they are just highlights of the other Godzilla films Simitar has put out . These complaints aside , this is probably the best chance Americans have had to view this film in a quality fashion , so for the low price , I do recommend it , just dont get your hopes up about the extras . Still a great film .
114 4 First off , the Amazon and Maltin review refer to the 1964 Godzilla vs Mothra , not the 1992 version you are looking at .
G vs Mothra is one of the most consistent , imaginative , well-rounded Godzilla films ever made . Even the plot is interesting enough , if it lays on the ' Save the Earth ' theme a little heavily . Much better than the 1994 travesty Godzilla vs Space Godzilla , and at least on par w / Godzilla vs Destroyer .
115 4 as compared to the american version , this godzilla should've been in that movie because that is the image of a true monster , not a fake one . The story was good and the ending was great .
117 4 Godzilla the king of the monsters and the beautiful mothra go head to head . The scene where battra transforms into the giant bug was great ! The movie was one of the best out of the series !
118 4 This is one of the best Godzilla movies of the 60 ' s era . Its presented in its original wide Tohoscope aspect ratio - the way it was meant to be seen . This american translation adds a battle scene with destroyers not scene in the original Japanese version . The dubbing is done well here , and the effects are great for the era .
119 4 I am quite pleased that they have dropped the campiness of the ' 60 ' s Godzilla and focused on the darker side .
121 4 this movie is a bit different from the ' sixties ' verison . this movie is a bit different from the sixties Mothra . Mothra has a new origin and there is a new monster , Batara , on the block . The action starts out with an Indiana Jones homage scene to the battle royale between the monsters . the english voice overs are generaly ok but luckily the original songs are left intact . this movie does establishes G-Force .
122 4 This movie is pretty good actually . The special effects were pretty good , the sound was bad , and the acting was bad . but the story is good , the ending is good , and so are the monsters . Godzilla doesnt appear till about 30 - 40 minutes into the movie , but after he does , there isnt a minute after he's not featured until the end . FIrst he goes through tokyo , survives missle attacks , fights mothra , destroys more towns , and fights off 2 mothra larvae's . its a good movie . hopefully if u liked godzilla vs Monster zero , or ghridrah , the 3 headed monster , you'll love this .
123 4 I love this movie alot . Even though I get confused , at times , I love this movie . But the story is confusing . This is the key to understanding the story : Battra was created to protect earth . Mothra was created to protect earth ` s people . The reason they were enimies is because people were endangering the earth . Why would they be enimies that way ? I have no idea ! ! ! But the plot is good , and the monsters look awesome . I really think it was cool on how Battra and Mothra took down Godzilla . Battra uses electric prism lasers . And Mothra uses a combination of poison and wing lightning . Goddzilla moans and falls over . Mothra and Battra pick up Godzilla and fly him out to sea . Must have been several miles . But Godzilla tears a hole in Battra ` s neck . Mothra lets go and Godzilla and Battra fall into the sea . Their drop must have been several thousand feet . Then Mothra goes into space to destroy a Meteorite . I do enjoy this movie but I just wish that someone could just strangle those two annoying twin faries ! ! !
126 4 This review is from :
Mothra vs . Godzilla ( DVD )
The DVD itself was OK ( and the movie itself rates five stars ) , but the case was damaged . Be careful of this seller !
129 4 this is a must see godzilla movie for any person who is the littlest bit of a fan . the godzilla costume in this movie changed yet again from the previous film and is what many fan consider the best of the series . It scales are made darker gray and he is given eye brows sort of . in this film godzilla is again the bad guy the way it should be . the movie is fast pace and exiting with well developed charactors which is rare for a godzilla movie . the only bad thing is bad thing about the movie is the deformed turtle on Infant island which looks like something out of a barney episode .
131 4 Godzilla vs thing the bick gmmick to cover the moster Mothra.G vs Godzilla is really good I mean Mothra dies from godzilla but
its off springs manage to hold their own and cocoon G to death for a victroy.But its a good Flick and the monster action is great a must see godzilla film
132 4 I first saw this movie when I was 8 and I wasn ` t impressed at all . By the look of the cover , I thought Mothra was going to be freaky looking . It only turned out to be a cute , overgrown moth . I read the back of the cover and saw that it said it was the most exiting Godzilla movie . I hated the movie so I put it aside . But about 2 months later my Grandmother had to buy another copy of it and my Grandfather had a copy already . ( He likes Godzilla too . ) I had no choice but to bring it home and give it another chance . I ` m very glad I did ! I still think that the idea of a giant moth is strange and I really hate those twin fairies . But I think Godzilla looks great and the plot is easy to follow . I really like the scenes when the twin Mothras spin a cacoon around Godzilla and I didn ` t know rock melted like that . Here is the story : A giant egg is washed ashore and two twin faries come to say that Mothra who lives on Infant island wants it back . The people of Tokyo lock it in a glass cage . On a dustland , Godzilla digs out of the ground and as always , starts destroying Tokyo . When he reaches the egg , Mothra attacks Godzilla before he can start gorging himself . Mothra drags the reptile away from the egg . Probably a mile or so . Mothra maneges to make Godzilla roll into a pit and uses poison on him . Eventuly , Godzilla burns Mothra ` s wing with his Atomic ray . Mothra lands next to her egg and dies . Godzilla heads for Tokyo forgetting about lunch . The military uses electricity on Godzilla . Godzilla maneges to destroy the generators and headed for Iwa island to menece a class on a feild trip . Luckily , the twin fairies manege to hatch the egg . Twin moth larves come out of the egg and head for the island to fight Godzilla . They spin a thick layered cacoon around Godzilla . The raging reptile who was blind because of the thick layers of web tumbled on the ground rolling in rage . He soon rolled off a cliff and into the depths of the sea . While all this is happening , a rescue boat goes to the island and bring the kids and teachers back to Tokyo . I do love this movie alot and the speacial effects are great but I expected more fright and I hate those twin fairies .
134 4 Godzilla Vs Mothra ( 1964 ) ( Sony 2002 ) 2 / 5
This is my first time seeing this film in the godzilla series but this review is about the dvd not the film . The picture is quite clear without much damage , the colour is okay to , pretty much it is an okay print not bad but not great . It is not in it's original widescreen format either . It shows signs of compression but not to the point of pixelisation . The frame rate is 24 fields 24 frames this improves on the King of the Monsters dvd as that was done in a standard NTSC VHS format of 60 fields 30 frames with a frame doubled every 4 which isn't as nice a picture . This has the same ' extras ' as King of the Monsters which are the advert for the tie-in GameCube game and another 5.1 remix which makes everything sound like it's in a bathroom .
Good Points : It has a little fun animated menu , it also has quite a few chapters at good points .
Bad Points : It hasn't been remastered or restored , it's not in widescreen , the 5.1 sucks and not even a trailer as an extra ? ?
The rating above is for this DVD not the film , I rated it 2 stars because it is watchable as a bog standard version of the movie but more dedicated fans should save their money for a future release .
136 4 Godzilla vs . Mothra 2 is really a girl's answer to a Godzilla movie . It stars many girl in the cast , the story line is really feminine , and Mothra is a girl , so there you are . Probobly my least favorite of the new series of movies . Hats off to Battra though , he's awsome . . . he's like Megalon and Mothra combined ! Mothra is really un-realistic in this film . In the original Godzilla vs . Mothra ( 1964 ) , Mothra was pretty , but her head and body were a more realistic yelloish color , in here shes bright white , and you can tell her eyes have lights in them . Godzilla dosen't appear much in the movie either , which is wrong . Like alot of people , I'm very dissapointed that all these new Godzilla movies are in the awful SLP quality ! The picture is blurry , the sound is muffled and just looks bad . Tri Star should be ashamed of themself , first releasing that new Godzilla movie and now releasing the better films in SLP mode ! So , all in all . . . If you like Mothra , you will like this film . If you hate Mothra , you will hate it , and if you love both Godzilla and Mothra , it's okay . Nuff ' said .
137 4 It's true . The plot ( was bad ) and most of the swear words theyused were compleatly unnesisary . But , it's a Godzilla movienevertheless . END
143 4 Godzilla vs.Mothra is a great Godzilla movie like Godzilla vs.Mechagodzilla ( 1975 ) and Terror Of Mechagodzilla ( 1976 ) and Godzilla Raids Again ( 1956 ) and Godzilla King Of the Monsters ( 1954 ) Mothra is a great Godzilla foe becuase it's based on a real creature the moth I hate when Godzilla gets attacked by Mothra ( Larva ) and kills him , I hate when Godzilla kills the mom Mothra but did I take a star or two away ? No ! You know why becuase this movie is a classic !
146 4 Why does everone like this movie , it's the worst Godzilla movie ever made . I makes no sense , an Indiana Jones rip-off & Godzilla gets teamed up on . Another stupied part was when Mothra and Battra were fighting , Mothra never used her laser beams when Battra was kicking here ASS , until Godzilla comes and fights Battra and only Battra , Mothra out of nowhere uses her laser beams . Heasi era ( I spelled it wrong ) was a bad era for Godzilla why , most of them have bad plots . It's only worth watching once and never again .
147 4 First the bad : The photographers and the director of this movie were sleeping and in their place they found a bunch of kids with ADD and gave them the cameras . Well that is my theory because of all the Godzilla films this movie has the worst fight scenes . They are analogous to a adult movie when the camera in the middle of the action goes and focuses in on the guy ; s butt . Basically when Godzilla was fighting Mothra we saw one random part of Godzilla moving then another part moving then switch over to Mothra and see a part of Mothra moving . All in all it was what made this movie not get a good rating .
Now the Good : The movie was hilariously ironic . Let's say that the evil Happy Enterprises happened to return the egg to Mothra's Island , well then Japan would have been doomed . So maybe evil businesses are capable of good in the long run . Also Happy Enterprises is probably one of the greatest names for a business . All the dialouge was classic . Where did the twins come from ; nobody knows .
Also the movie shows a strong anti-nuke message in a not so subtle way . For example the characters on the ravaged island say this island is reason enough to stop nuclear testing . HINT HINT ! The plot like all other Godzilla movies was full of holes and it is also obvious that the Japanease military never learns that tanks are worthless against Godzilla .
For all the Godzilla fans this is a must have , but for the casual viewer pick up a different video .
148 4 This review is from :
Mothra vs . Godzilla ( DVD )
I have said this in my past reviews of the Godzilla series , I grew up on these films and I have fond memories of watching them , but they are very juvenile . Even the Japanese versions are juvenile . . . . . Having said that , I wish that these films were cleaned up . The print here isn't bad , but looks like there is room for much improvement . The features are quite good and considering the age of the material it is nice to see some of this stuff . I think 3 stars for any of these Godzilla movies is fair . . . . .5 stars ? Come on this isn't Gone with the Wind Please ( Big G fans ) don't have a hissy fit . I'm not really bashing old radiation breath he is a part of my childhood . If the prints were cleaned up and the extras were longer I'd give the release 5 stars . As it is , it's a fun entry in a juvenile series .
149 4 I have said this in my past reviews of the Godzilla series , I grew up on these films and I have fond memories of watching them , but they are very juvenile . Even the Japanese versions are juvenile . . . . . Having said that , I wish that these films were cleaned up . The print here isn't bad , but looks like there is room for much improvement . The features are quite good and considering the age of the material it is nice to see some of this stuff . I think 3 stars for any of these Godzilla movies is fair . . . . .5 stars ? Come on this isn't Gone with the Wind Please ( Big G fans ) don't have a hissy fit . I'm not really bashing old radiation breath he is a part of my childhood . If the prints were cleaned up and the extras were longer I'd give the release 5 stars . As it is , it's a fun entry in a juvenile series .
151 4 I hate this film ! It's even worse than Godzilla vs . Megalon.Nothing holds this film up.It's a disgrace to other Godzilla films.People like this film alot but I don't get why.It has a horrible plot , bad acting , horrible monster scenes , and even Godzilla catches on fire from a rocket that never hurt him before.BAD , BAD , BAD !
044 4 This fine film is destroyed by the titles . Some are on the film itself and some are on the black band below the image . The former are hard to read . But worst of all , some are split between both of the above and will give you a horrible headache . Why doesn't anyone seem to care about the placement of titles ? A fun film that deserves better .
061 4 Seen the a.i.p . version as a kid . But to finally get the japanese version is a dream come true . The quality is excellent . This dvd as well the other being release by CM got extras . Must have for any true die-hard G-fan .
100 4 The plot is bad.They steal from Raiders of the Lost Ark when getting the idol and only Battra , Mothra's evil twin , keeps this movie from bombing out completely.After you watch it once to know whats going on in the series so far you shouldn't watch it again.Horrible !
107 4 The Movie is great , just like Godzilla himself . Battra is an interesting creation , and Mothra is bigger and more powerful than her early days with Godzilla . Her priestesses , the Cosmos , are more mythical and poetic than they were before . Their song is incredibly moving , and the movie gives a feeling of magic and myth . this movie is the reason of the 1996 and 1997 Mothra movies . I just hope the other reviewers on this page realize that .
024 4 This is probably the last of the great Godzilla films of the 60 ' s unless you count Ghidrah the Three Headed Monster which wasn't too bad.After Godzilla vs Mothra the Godzilla suit and the films became increasingly silly.The original 1964 title was Godzilla vs The Thing.This film also contains some top notch special effects for the time .
027 4 This is a DVD that all collectors must have . there are two version of the film the original Japanese version in 2 ; 35 ; 1 and the US version as it was when it was first release as Godzilla vs the thing in 1 ; 85 ; 1 . that is the way the US version should be shown . with its original US title intact .
030 4 Classic Godzilla , one of the best Godzilla films ever . Much , much better than the 1998 Tri Star film , by miles . . .
076 4 This film is good because of the storyline . Godzilla suite in this one is the best of the 1960s godzilla suites . This Godzilla almost gives the same mood , of the original , King of the Monsters . The music is great . The effects are an improvement from Godzilla vs . King kong . The effects may seem choppy for this milllemium .
135 4 The forth entry in the brilliant Heisei series , Godzilla vs . Mothra - The Battle for Earth , is a good movie , although it is a disapointment when compared with the excellent Godzilla vs . King Ghidorah . The monsters are really cool looking , escpecially Battra . Unfortunately , the monsters are in too little of it , and the dreadful human characters are incredibly annoying , with overly cheesy lines . The Cosmos are extremely irritating . When the monsters do appear though , their scenes are spectacular . Godzilla is brilliantly evil , and his underwater battle with Battra is the best scene in the film . Mothra is very cute , and will probably appeal to children . This was OK , but I think Toho could have produced a better movie .
064 4 This Release is Exactly how I remember it as a Kid in the Early 70 ' s ! ! The Voices , the Bad Lip Synch , EVEN THE TITLE : Godzilla vs the Thing ! ! I used to rush home from school to watch Godzilla Monster Week on the 4 : 30 Movie and this dual version lets me enjoy my Silly Beloved U.S . Version , or the More Serious Japanese Version with English Subtitles ! ! Thank You Toho ! ! WHAT TOOK YOU SO LONG ? ? ? ! ! ! Please do this with ALL Toho Dakaiju Movies ! ! ! VIVA GODZILLA ! ! ! !
127 4 The DVD itself was OK ( and the movie itself rates five stars ) , but the case was damaged . Be careful of this seller !
CASE : Like the GODZILLA RAIDS AGAIN / GIGANTIS set that was released on the same day , this one , though it looks thicker in photos and like a silvery mate to the 2 disc GOJIRA set that came out , these are thinner being only one disc , no spine / hub like that one . MOTHRA : ( and this applies to Gigantis , see my review for that one as well ) , the case is fairly thick cardboard . . . much like a book , overlayed with the silvery graphics . This is well done , and a treat for those of us who appreciate the super crowded Japanese packaging designs . When you take off the plastic from the store the case crackles open like a new book to reveal the trayed disc on one side ( the right ) which is a rather dull affair considering the design of everything else , but it's functional , being only title graphics . To the left being an oft-seen shot of Godzilla shooting his breath at Mothra . The cover speaks for itself being just a well executed piece of graphics featuring the poster art as its base , especially for DVD's which are usually nothing spectacular in my book , so kudos for creating such a cool looking package . This said , the downside of this is the case does not snap closed . Most ' book ' style cases snap shut , but being that there's no other tray save for the disc tray to click into , this case will eventually weaken and not stay shut , so purchasers are advised to keep the paper band that rides on the outside of the case . And in this or RAIDS AGAIN , there is no booklet .
PRINTS : The prints are decent and certainly a HUGE step above the Classic Media release from a few years back that many of us already have ( bright yellow with Mothra superimposed in the middle ) . It doesn't hurt that these are in anamorphic widescreen which was a treat since the other was a 4x3 and a pain to watch on a widescreen TV for obvious reasons . Without a doubt , the print here could've been cleaned up / repaired , but it is still quite nice to watch all points considered . For some reason , since it wasn't beaten over my head that these were going to be outstanding fresh-as-yesterday-prints , I'm more than willing to not complain . It's also a Godzilla film , which deserve good treatment , but I'm not going to expect a CASABLANCA or WIZARD OF OZ restoration . . . . . at least in this lifetime . . . . . especially if it wasn't such a focused point as was done with the GOJIRA release . . . . . which when we got it , was kind of a mess . The JP version runs 88 : 36 , and the US runs 88 : 07 .
EDIT : I feel compelled to add , before anyone screams at me for not recognizing these are ' restored ' prints , well . . . . scratches , genral wear and jumps are still just that . . . . . ' restored ' or not . . . . . . . it's still not ' restored ' to the original condition . So there . . . ; - )
COMMENTARY : I hafta admit , between this and the RAIDS AGAIN commentaries , I've had the most enjoyable experience with the ' medium ' ( do commentaries count as a medium ? ) . They are really informative , especially if you are not a full-on Godzilla academic like myself . It could be complained that they are oftimes dry and book read , but who else is gonna sit there for two hours and do this kind of stuff free-form ? I enjoyed this commentary alot . The two hosts played off of each other quite well , and most importantly , they didn't come off as pretentious , though in a couple spots , the comments about the ' realism ' of the scenes involved was a teeeeeeeny bit of an enthusiastic stretch . . . . lol . I like commentaries on the rare occasions I watch with them on , when they don't beat me over the head with how wonderful everything is on the screen . These two are a good example of this . . . enthused but not over the top ( KING KONG ' 33 commentary anyone ? ) . They recognize the film's faults for what they are and the good points as well . A simple concept , but I've turned off quite a few gushing commentaries because the commentators devolved into gushing fanboys .
OVERALL : EXCELLENT RELEASE . This is defintiely a keeper and does not feel like a cheap stand-in like the original release of this title here in the US . That one always felt like it may as well have been a cheapie bootleg sitting on the shelf . This is finally the decent release I'd been wanting . And can't wait for the next titles from this company .
019 4 FINALLY . . . this and GODZILLA RAIDS AGAIN / GIGANTIS have been released , well , widely as opposed to just the Godzillaondvd website as they had been for awhile . There's not much to say about the plot , nor do I care to do plots on Amazon , lard knows there's about a million people rehashing the plots over and over here ( or is this IMDB ? hehe ; - ) , so the product itself :
CASE : Like the GODZILLA RAIDS AGAIN / GIGANTIS set that was released on the same day , this one , though it looks thicker in photos and like a silvery mate to the 2 disc GOJIRA set that came out , these are thinner being only one disc , no spine / hub like that one . MOTHRA : ( and this applies to Gigantis , see my review for that one as well ) , the case is fairly thick cardboard . . . much like a book , overlayed with the silvery graphics . This is well done , and a treat for those of us who appreciate the super crowded Japanese packaging designs . When you take off the plastic from the store the case crackles open like a new book to reveal the trayed disc on one side ( the right ) which is a rather dull affair considering the design of everything else , but it's functional , being only title graphics . To the left being an oft-seen shot of Godzilla shooting his breath at Mothra . The cover speaks for itself being just a well executed piece of graphics featuring the poster art as its base , especially for DVD's which are usually nothing spectacular in my book , so kudos for creating such a cool looking package . This said , the downside of this is the case does not snap closed . Most ' book ' style cases snap shut , but being that there's no other tray save for the disc tray to click into , this case will eventually weaken and not stay shut , so purchasers are advised to keep the paper band that rides on the outside of the case . And in this or RAIDS AGAIN , there is no booklet .
PRINTS : The prints are decent and certainly a HUGE step above the Classic Media release from a few years back that many of us already have ( bright yellow with Mothra superimposed in the middle ) . It doesn't hurt that these are in anamorphic widescreen which was a treat since the other was a 4x3 and a pain to watch on a widescreen TV for obvious reasons . Without a doubt , the print here could've been cleaned up / repaired , but it is still quite nice to watch all points considered . For some reason , since it wasn't beaten over my head that these were going to be outstanding fresh-as-yesterday-prints , I'm more than willing to not complain . It's also a Godzilla film , which deserve good treatment , but I'm not going to expect a CASABLANCA or WIZARD OF OZ restoration . . . . . at least in this lifetime . . . . . especially if it wasn't such a focused point as was done with the GOJIRA release . . . . . which when we got it , was kind of a mess . The JP version runs 88 : 36 , and the US runs 88 : 07 .
EDIT : I feel compelled to add , before anyone screams at me for not recognizing these are ' restored ' prints , well . . . . scratches , genral wear and jumps are still just that . . . . . ' restored ' or not . . . . . . . it's still not ' restored ' to the original condition . So there . . . ; - )
COMMENTARY : I hafta admit , between this and the RAIDS AGAIN commentaries , I've had the most enjoyable experience with the ' medium ' ( do commentaries count as a medium ? ) . They are really informative , especially if you are not a full-on Godzilla academic like myself . It could be complained that they are oftimes dry and book read , but who else is gonna sit there for two hours and do this kind of stuff free-form ? I enjoyed this commentary alot . The two hosts played off of each other quite well , and most importantly , they didn't come off as pretentious , though in a couple spots , the comments about the ' realism ' of the scenes involved was a teeeeeeeny bit of an enthusiastic stretch . . . . lol . I like commentaries on the rare occasions I watch with them on , when they don't beat me over the head with how wonderful everything is on the screen . These two are a good example of this . . . enthused but not over the top ( KING KONG ' 33 commentary anyone ? ) . They recognize the film's faults for what they are and the good points as well . A simple concept , but I've turned off quite a few gushing commentaries because the commentators devolved into gushing fanboys .
OVERALL : EXCELLENT RELEASE . This is defintiely a keeper and does not feel like a cheap stand-in like the original release of this title here in the US . That one always felt like it may as well have been a cheapie bootleg sitting on the shelf . This is finally the decent release I'd been wanting . And can't wait for the next titles from this company .
038 4 This fine film , an unoffical sequal , or just retelling of the original Godzilla vs . Mothra ( Mothra won in that one too ) , but this time , throw in the huge fly Battra , and youve got a 3 - way dance ! Well , not really since Mothra and Battra decide to jump Godzilla . This movie kicks serious asphault and is a must see for and Godzilla or scifi fans !
MOTHRA IS THE GREATEST MONSTER THAT EVER LIVED !
046 4 DO NOT BUY THIS DVD ! ! Godzilla VS Mothra Is a great movie , it is a shame that it is presented here , with this DVD , in a full screen format . I just watched the uncut , Japanese LETTER BOX version DVD a friend loaned me , and was greatly disappointed at just how much the American full screen formatted version destroys the film . Do yourself a favor and don't wast your time or money on this FULL SCREEN PIECE OF CRAP , for it is unworthy of a space in your DVD collection . Wait for the letter box version .
068 4 Alas ! Inishiro Honda has done it again ! Even though there are 6 Mothra movies , this has to be the greatest movie of all of them ( but she has to have fairies everywhere she goes ) . In fact , tens of millions of people , including me , think this is the the best Godzilla movie . That is , next to the original Gojira . Then why am I giving it 4 stars ? Quote from Barry's Temple of Godzilla , ' If only someone would shoot those annoying twin fairies . ' . Figured it out ? Good . This movie is also very , very campy . Tell me I'm not the only one who thinks that . BUT I LIKE MOVIES THAT ARE CAMPY ! One last thing about the fairies . . . ' Oh sure , they represent the powers of Goodness and Light , but they don't know that fur kills . ' Quote from Stomp Tokyo review .
081 4 I remember seeing Godzilla Vs . The Thing ( the title of the American International Productions 1964 U.S . release and the one I prefer ) at a local movie theatre in 1969 or 1970 , several years after its original run in theatres . I also had seen it at least once on TV before that and several times since . When I first viewed the VHS widescreen version , I enjoyed seeing it in that format once again after all these years ( I had missed seeing Godzilla approaching the Nagoya temple from the left , cutoff on the TV format ) . . . and in near-pristine condition . The Simitar video ( though externally labeled Godzilla Vs . Mothra ) , brings-back the classic An American International Pictures release . . . Godzilla Vs . The Thing opening credits . This is much nicer than the late 1980 ' s Paramount Video release of Godzilla Vs . Mothra , which supplants the classic AI credits with the new title ( which actually is the original Japanese title , reused for the sake of simplicity for newer audiences ) and splices in the rest of the original credits . . . though done fairly well , one could detect the break ! However , the Simitar version eliminates the really original intro that I had seen on TV during the 70 ' s . It showed the AIP logo and music , followed by a blank , though scratchy , screen in which the opening Toho theme begins , fades to the ocean / hurricane scene ( without credits for several seconds ) , then the AIP Release credit - - - DOES ANYONE REMEMBER THIS ? Instead , Simitar chose to skip all that and advance the beginning of the theme to the point at which American International Pictures appears in front of the ocean . Aside from these technical points , the movie itself showcases Godzilla in his classic self - - - evil and menacing , with the best Godzilla suit design ever ! Combined with impressive sfx ( the optical mixing and composite photography are markedly improved from the previous King Kong vs . Godzilla ) , dramatic music score , logical scripting , and excellent English dubbing , this movie exemplifies the serious and attentive manner in which Toho Studios created their giant-monster movies during the mid-sixties . Highly recommended ! This feature , along with the follow-up , Ghidora , the Three-Headed Monster , I consider to be the best in the entire series .
092 4 I've already reviewed this movie , so I'm not going to repeat all the wonderfully complimentary things I said verbatim . However , the addition of this Wide-Screen edition of the film is fantastic , since the original movie was shot in Toho-Scope and the letterboxed format really shows off Eiji Tsubaraya's SFX . . . their scope is positively epic at times . DO THE WIDESCREEN . . . it's worth it !
098 4 Note : I meant to give this film 3 1 / 2 stars . The First Scene after the credits features an Indiana Jones ripoff that even looks like Harrison Ford ! Yes , even the bullwhip . I even nicknamed him Nagasaki Jones . The special effects are either very well done or totally awful . There is an awesome underwater fight scene between Battra and Godzilla , and the final fight scene is one of the best ! Uno Problemo : The film seems to be more about Mothra than Godzilla . Mothra even has more scenes than Godzilla ! The sound quality is a little wavy but I probably got a bad tape ( or maybe because it's in EP ! ! ! ! ) . The musical score by Akira Ifukube is great ! I even hum the tunes when they start playing . But WHY DO THEY HAVE TO HAVE THOSE ANNOYING SINGING FAIRES ! ! If Godzilla showed up more , I would've gave this movie 5 stars . I always cheer when I see Godzilla kick Morthra's butt before Battra rescues him ( darn ) . Oh yeah , a meteorite is going to kill us all this year . You'll know what I mean after you watch the film .
104 4 Technically well made , and competently directed , with a good Godzilla suit , this film holds its status as one of the best in the series . Still though , I can't help shake my first impression of this film . I must have been 6 years old when I saw it and remember crying at the end when Godzilla was defeated by Mothras offsrping . In the direct sequel to this movie , GHIDRAH , THE THREE-HEADED MONSTER , Godzilla returns and teams up with Mothra and Rodan against a menace not of this earth , leaving no doubt where our sympathy should lie . Because Godzilla is the antagonist in GODZILLA VS . MOTHRA , it's hard for me to look back at this movie with complete objectivity .
112 4 This movie ranks as one of my all-time favorites of ANY Godzilla movie . The special FX are wild and bright . . . lots of lazer-type blasts from Mothra and Battra and plenty of blue-fire breath from The Big G . The production values on this film are really good ( for a rubber-suit monster film ) . And I love the famous MA-SOO-RA Song updated by the new fairy COSMOS TWINS ( I was hummin ' it for days after watching this video ) . Gotta see this one ! !
124 4 Here is a list for Godzilla & Gamera fans . It will help you keep track of the monsters names , english and japanese .
GODZILLA = GOJIRA
MOTHRA = MOSURA
KING KONG = KINGU KONGU
GHIDRAH = KING GHIDORAH
RODAN = RADON
SPIGA = KUMONGA
GIMANTIS = KAMAKURAS
MOGERA = MOGUERA
MAGMA = MAGUMA
VARAN = BARAN
GIGAN = GAIGAN
MEGALON = MEGARO
ANGUIRUS = ANGILAS
MINYA = MINILLA
JET JAGUAR = JET JAGAR
KING CAESAR = KING SEESAR
DAGORA = DOGORA
SPACEGODZILLA = SUPASUGOJIRA
DEATH GHIDORAH = DESGHIDORAH
DAGARLA = DAGARHA
MECHA G = KIRYU
BROWN GARGANTUA = SANDA
GREEN GARGANTUA = GAIRA
BROSAURUS = GOROSAURUS
GODZILLA ' 98 = ' ZILLA
GAMMERA = GAMERA
BARUGON = BARGON
GAOS = GYAOS
MONSTER X = JIGER aka JAIGA
VIRAS = BIRASU
GUIRON = GUILLION
SPACE GAOS = OUTER-GALAXY GYAOS aka GYAOS II
YOG = SPACE AMOEBA
MUSHROOM PEOPLE = MATANGO
H-MAN = LIQUID PEOPLE
ATRAGON = GOTENGO aka GOHTEN
SMOG MONSTER = HEDORAH
SEA MONSTER = EBIRAH
ORGAH = ORGA ( short for ORGANIZER )
COSMIC MONSTER = FAKE GODZILLA aka MECHAGODZILLA aka MG
MG2 = MECHAGODZILLA 2
ROBOT KONG = MECHANIKONG
INFANT ISLAND = BEIRU ISLAND
MONSTER ISLAND = SORGEL ISLAND aka SOLGEL ISLAND
MONSTERLAND = OGASAWARA ISLANDS
MONDO ISLAND = SKULL ISLAND
REGENERATOR G - 1 = ORGANIZER G - 1
G CELL = GODZILLA CELL
G FORCE = GODZILLA FORCE
All others the same .
125 4 This is one of the worst monster movies ever . Why ? Because
1 . The plot's terrible .
2 . Those twin elias are soo anoying , you'd hope Godzilla kills them .
3 . Battra ( dark Mothra ) turns GOOD !
4 . Godzilla's the Bad Guy .
5 . IT'S A RERUN OF GODZILLA VS . MOTHRA ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !
Basicly , without Battra , I would give this movie a 1 .
133 4 I WATCH THIS MOVIE ONCE EVERY TWO MONTHS . ITS NOT THE BEST MOVIE I LIKE BUT THE FIGHTING IS GREAT . GODZILLA AND BATTRA ( IN HIS LARVAL STAGE ) SEEMED EQUALY MATCHED IN THERE FIGHT UNDER WATER .
I GIVE THIS 4 STARS BECAUSE GODZILLA WAS BEAT ( BADLY )
142 4 Back in the 60s the first ever Godzilla VS Mothra came out , and this is it .
There is not TO much to say about this film , it is a good film , how ever it does have some problems , for Example , Mothra is just a flying moth , it does not really have that much attack options , just flying , and releasing bowel movements on the enemy . There fore the battles are not ultra spectacular , but are still good . The overall DVD quality is good consdiering its a film from the 1960s , how ever I wish there was Japanese audio track with optional subtitles , but its better then nothing .
One MAJOR flaw I feel with this movie is the ending , it is a major open ended end , and has very little clouser .
Overall would I suguest it to people ? Yes . ESPECIALY Giant monster fans !
144 4 This movie was awesome but i liked godzilla vs king ghidorah better orginally Battra was not supposed to be in this movie a new and more powerful monster named BAGAN was to have starred off in this movie he is a combination of GODZILLA AND DESTORYAH and but they replaced him with that wimpy BATTRA because If BAGAN was in this movie this movie would be extremely awesome if godzilla and bagan were fighting in the phippipine plate this would have been a disasterous fight if BAGAN Killed mothra then this movie would have been called GODZILLA Vs . BAGAN Mothra would have just been totally beat up really bad . ask me some questions if you don't know who bagan is .
145 4 VIDEO QUALITY :
As with all Simitar Godzilla releases ( minus Terror of Mecha-Godzilla ) , Mothra vs . Godzilla is presented as a double sided disc with the choice of both widescreen and full screen editions . The full screen print is simply disgusting , not only loosing so much of the image ( as you would expect ) , the print if completely covered in scratches , hairs , cuts . . . burns ? Colours are extremely faded , and overall , its downright terrible . The widescreen version is a vast improvement , though still a fairly shoddy print . Again , the print seems to be lacking colour , and is covered in cuts , scratches , and hairs , though not to the same extent . The widescreen print also lacks 16 : 9 enhancement , which means widescreen viewers are stuck with a stretched picture , which pretty much invalidates the whole point in owning a widescreen TV . Both prints also seem to blur a lot , making fine detail hard to spot . Out of all the releases available in the United States , this is the best you will ever find , though the video is still miles off from DVD Toho's region 2 release .
AUDIO QUALITY :
Naturally , the disc only contains the English dubbing . On both widescreen and full screen versions , you are given the option of both Mono and Dolby Digital 5.1 audio tracks . Sadly , on both tracks , the entire film is accompanied by that classic fuzz that sneaks in the background . Luckily , this is not too noticeable . For the most part , the sounds are vibrant , though occasionally higher pitches such as Godzilla's roar and the Peanuts singing sound distorted .
EXTRA FEATURES :
Simitar are one of the few distributors to actually have any extra material on their American kaiju releases . Sadly though , none of it is really of any particular interest . There are several Godzilla screen savers included for DVD-ROM users , which are only compatible with Windows ® 95 machines . There are also some custom trailers Simitar designed for their Godzilla releases , which are made in a cheesy 1950 ' s American monster movie style . There is a video art gallery , and for DVD-ROM users a printable art gallery , which is fairly interesting . Despite a short trivia game and a link to their now non-existent website , it doesn't offer much more . Still , its nice to see someone attempting to bring special features to overseas releases , however lacklustre they may be .
OVERALL :
This is the best you will ever get in the USA , and practically anywhere outside Japan . For most fans , this is definitely the route to go . You get to see the film in its original widescreen format , and with a much clearer print than ever seen on TV in America . As with most American releases , you're stuck with English dubbing as the only audio option , but never the less it sounds good . If you're a die hard fan , and really want to see this film in action , the DVD Toho release may be of interest to you . Though at a much higher price , and missing English subtitles , the DVD Toho release is simply a much better print all around . Understandably though , most fans won't want to fork out the $50 for a non-subtitled DVD , thus this DVD from Simitar is the best way to go . . . if you can actually find a copy , that is .
150 4 The movie was okay . It's one of the better Godzilla films .
The one thing that REALLY makes this movie stink is that the unstoppable Godzilla was beaten by bugs ! That SUCKS !
Don't mess with mother nature . How many times does she have to teach man a lesson ? Seems man is not a good listener ! Not NEARLY as good as Godzilla vs . King Ghidorah , but the fight scenes are awesome and some of the characters are really amusing ! Once again , the dubbing is bad . . . . . but that only adds to the entertainment , I think ! Look ! The flower talked ! Haha that one kept me in stitches for a while ! Not for everyone , especially non-Godzilla fans . Nuff said .
023 4 To my surprise , I really enjoyed this movie a lot ! There is a strong moral to this movie : Don't mess with mother nature . How many times does she have to teach man a lesson ? Seems man is not a good listener ! Not NEARLY as good as Godzilla vs . King Ghidorah , but the fight scenes are awesome and some of the characters are really amusing ! Once again , the dubbing is bad . . . . . but that only adds to the entertainment , I think ! Look ! The flower talked ! Haha that one kept me in stitches for a while ! Not for everyone , especially non-Godzilla fans . Nuff said .
032 4 this was a very good with some neat scenes and cool milatary stuff but i think this movie needs more destruction in here like when godzilla attacks nogoya he could destroy more then that but other then that it's a good movie .
045 4 This really is the best Godzilla movie , but doesnt it bother anyone that Columbia pictures hasnt released the original MOTHRA on DVD yet ?
049 4 The orginal Godzilla vs . Mothra . It has great scenes of destruction and mayhem . This film hasm y favorite Godzilla music and Mothra was great in this . Ever since i was five years old this was one of the first i saw on tv .
062 4 What can be better than a giant lizard fighting a giant moth ? Not much if you ask me , and this film has that and much , much more , including mystery , intrigue , and tiny little people in polynesian garb . This is a must see for any aspiring Godzilla fan .
091 4 I am a godzilla freak and I think this is one of the best . The story was confusing , but the costume designs were great.IF you want action heres a movie .
093 4 This movie had WOW special effects . The new robotic Godzilla head was really cool ! The plot was a little iffy , but overall good . The addition of Battra was a good idea . Buy this movie . It's great !
099 4 to me it is one of the best g movies of all time . the story , effects and godzilla's costume are considered classics . any g fan who didn't see this movies yet owes it to his / herself to pick up this movie up . listen to me . . buy it now !
108 4 one of the best new godzilla movies a must see for any godzilla fa
120 4 It's the last godzilla movie released in the U.S . The king is in another battle.He's up to battle Mothra and Battra.It's the 19th out of 23 movies of the big monster.To know more get The Official Godzilla Compendium or get the movie G . vs . Mothra The Battle For Earth .
130 4 This is the first of many losses Godzilla has with mothra . It is well made and has a decent plot .
