Memories and Fascination with Kaiju Movies: A Personal Journey

From my childhood to my college years, the world of Kaiju movies has held a special place in my heart. This passion began with Godzilla games, which were not only a blast to play but also introduced me to a myriad of giant monsters.

Godzilla Games

The Godzilla games, like Unleashed, not only entertained me but also sparked an interest in the detailed designs of the monsters themselves. Unleashed for PS2 had a roster save the earth with an extra monster, which was fun despite its limitations. The Wii version of Unleashed expanded the roster, providing a more diverse experience. Additionally, I was a fan of Ultraman shows and any animated shows featuring battles between giant monsters. The live-action Godzilla (1998) movie was a significant point of interest, though it was clear to me that it was bad. This, however, didn't hinder my curiosity to explore the original Godzilla films.

Original Godzilla Films

Since the original Godzilla films were known for their campy editing, bad dubbing, and lower-quality special effects, I grew up with a keen eye for what made these films truly wonderful. I watched classics like Godzilla vs. Rodan, Ghidorah the Three-Headed Monster, Invasion of Astro-Monster, Destroy All Monsters, and Godzilla vs. the Smog Monster on basic cable, often with my father. These memories are among the most cherished in my life.

Adolescence and Collegiate Discoveries

Another significant phase in my life involved Mystery Science Theater 3000 and the campy elements of those films. This exposure allowed me to appreciate the monsters for their inherent coolness rather than focusing on the flaws. At college, I made an extensive list of every Kaiju movie, deciding to watch them in the order of their release. This process revealed a spectrum of quality, including some excellently crafted films and some magnificent cultural projects. The original Godzilla stands out as one of the best movies ever made.

Conclusion

The world of Kaiju movies continues to captivate me, reminding me of the joy and wonder I experienced growing up. Whether through Godzilla games, classic Godzilla films, or animated shows, this genre has left an indelible mark on my life, shaping my interests and love for giant monster battles.