The Cinematheque

“A creative high point in the franchise … This cinematic and influential experiment has enjoyed a seismic turnaround with fans and critics.”

Paul Lê, Bloody Disgusting

Godzilla got an improbable psychedelic makeover thanks to one-off director Banno Yoshimitsu’s cult-adored film. A stylistic outlier that includes animated sequences, musical numbers, and an inexplicably airborne Godzilla, Godzilla vs. Hedorah was the franchise’s strongest stab at environmental messaging, a response to the alarming levels of pollution in postwar Japan. The story pits our radioactive hero against an alien life form feeding on industrial waste. When Godzilla loses and thousands perish in the sludge monster’s ensuing raids, Japan’s youth congregate at the base of Mount Fuji to celebrate one last night on Earth. One part eco-horror, two parts mushroom trip, this exceptionally original Godzilla entry—divisive to say the least—unsurprisingly irked some Toho suits with its off-brand bohemian sensibilities. Banno’s plans for a sequel were scrapped (as was the director) and the next installment saw a return to basics.

In Japanese with English subtitles

“One of the boldest films in the franchise … An unforgettable movie that is pulpy entertainment but with a very clear environmental message.”

Graham Skipper, Godzilla: The Official Guide