Tested out my region free BluRay with Criterion's Godzilla from 1954.
It's still an effective film. It's hokum but with a heart and brains. A smart story and the creature is a clear analogy for a nuclear strike. The attack aftermath is effective and packs an emotional punch.
The term WMD is used in this film - not sure when that was first named -with respect to the weapon used against the monster. That sequence plays out to a solemn soundtrack which gives it an emotional kick.
Sure the effects are creaky in places but in others they are still very effective. A lot better than one would think. Godzilla is fully formed here - with his look/shape and radioactive breath. It's quite an achievement that such a creation was got pretty much right first time.
The Criterion release has several extra features that seem worthwhile and it has really natty, fun packaging too. A worthy purchase for a collector.
I watched Sound of Metal and Mogul Mowgli this week and holy shit, both really great films and Riz Ahmed is on superb form in both. Guy is talented. Particularly enjoyed SoM so well worth a watch on Prime.
It’s being released on Monday/Tuesday. Thankfully UK doing it, unlike say other Criterion boxsets that I’d like. I follow Fopp Covent Garden on Twitter and they said they’re only getting very small number in so I asked them to put one aside for me and they obliged.
Criterion Godzilla extra features are great. Interview with the man in the suit and some great stills showing the shots being made has been the highlight so far.