Directed by: Motoyoshi Oda
Distributed by: Toho
Written by Nick McCann
58/100
“Gojira” left a powerful mark in history. Toho Studios ushered in a new era of monster cinema, saving the Japanese film economy from bankruptcy in the process. Its massive success and prestigious recognition immediately guaranteed it a sequel. But much like his simian inspiration, King Kong, Godzilla’s first follow-up would be a give-and-take situation.
For the most part, the first movie’s serious tone is gone. The story falls more in line with other atomic creature movies of the era, moving at a faster pace and focused more on spectacle. That doesn’t mean the movie isn’t totally devoid of striking parallels and it still feels like the original movie lingers in this new entry. However, its progression feels uneven and certain plot routes will have you wondering where they’re going.
We get more of a civilian perspective compared to the original movie’s academic and military authorities. This new band of characters is fairly likable, if a little underdeveloped. Hiroshi Koizumi and Setsuko Wakayama have a charming chemistry with each other, while Minoru Chiaki brings some fun humor. Otherwise, most characters fill strictly one role when they could’ve taken them further than they did. Takashi Shimura briefly returns as Dr. Yamane, in a thankless appearance that only serves to recap the first movie.
This movie marks an important franchise turning point, giving Godzilla a second monster to fight in Anguirus. The creature designs overall are fine but the rubber suits can look ropey at certain camera angles. Miniature work however still has a regular level of on-screen destruction. The rest of the action scenes as a whole are fairly inconsistent. Fight choreography can be messy and the lack of the staple slow motion in the cinematography takes away a lot of these monsters’ weight. Sound design though is solid, with booming military engagements and a suspenseful score.
By no means will this be a lot of people’s favorite Godzilla movie. Its rushed production history shows on screen almost every step of the way in its unrefined visuals and undercooked story. Amid all that, some elements do make “Godzilla Raids Again” above average compared to others of its kind. First attempts rarely ever go smoothly. In this case, it’s nice this movie took a hit trying out a monster battle narrative so the future can look more promising for the franchise.
“Godzilla Raids Again” Clip
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