Godzilla (1954) on Criterion 4K UHD

(directed by Ishiro Honda)

Reviewed by Tarek Fayoumi

Godzilla, the Early Era

From the Criterion collection, Godzilla (also known as Gojira) is available on the Criterion Collection in 4K UHD. As one who is a fan of the franchise, I always felt this first installment thrived on authenticity to make monsters feel real. With the limited technologies surrounding the making of Godzilla, the restored 4K cut brightens it up for it to feel more horrific and authentically captivating. Not only because of the fact that it's a giant monster, but the hidden layers that the making of the film was tied in with politics in an era many decades ago. The vision of director Ishiro Honda created a cult, and the Criterion 4K UHD loops in many facts and important, yet brilliant information. Much of this is intended to help audiences grasp the true realistic moments from the works of the 4K edition.

Criterion Features

Consumers who adore Godzilla will feel like Godzilla rises right from their hands. As the movie box is opened, a carving of the head of the monster unfolds from the box. Inside the case, there are two discs and an essay. Consumers receive both editions of the film. One is on 4K and the other is Blu-ray. There is also audio commentary by film historian David Kalat. However, the most comprehensive aspect of this feature is the featurette with the interview of the score composer Akira Ifukube. That is because what is discussed in that segment is the photographic effects to heighten the fascination of Godzilla. Finally, the essay by film critic J. Hoberman. It is lengthy and detailed talking about how Godzilla was a development going many ages back, and how it was written and rewritten. The roar of Godzilla enraptured many before it was able to rise to the biggest cult following it has today. Godzilla on Criterion 4K UHD is a keepsake that truly feels like an appreciation that is an art form of cinema to always remember.

Purchase or Pass?

For those who love and adore Godzilla, this is a purchase that is worth it. However, what should be considered is all the materials in the box itself. It is one to be treated like a bible. That is because what is written in the essay contains information that is enticing and that many audiences do not think about much today when they watch anything related to the franchise. Godzilla on Criterion 4K UHD is one of the most prized possessions of importance. The thriving aspects of cinematography, writing, and the process of making Godzilla rise all thrive immensely.