Why is Godzilla: Here There Be Dragons the Only Godzilla Story Set Before World War II?

Introduction:

Godzilla, the fearsome kaiju that has captured the imaginations of audiences around the world for generations, frequently serves as a metaphor for the suffering and trauma experienced by the people of Japan following the devastating nuclear bombings of World War II. However, in the film 'Godzilla: Here There Be Dragons', we encounter a unique perspective that stands out: it is the only Godzilla story set before the advent of World War II. This article delves into the original intent behind the Godzilla mythos, Hollywood’s role in reinterpreting it, and why 'Godzilla: Here There Be Dragons' is a one-of-a-kind exploration of pre-WWII Japan.

The Original Metaphors and Meanings

Godzilla in the Original Context:

Godzilla is not just a monster; it is a powerful symbol deeply rooted in the historical and cultural context of post-War Japan. The film is often interpreted as a metaphor for the fallen Japanese empire, reflecting the nation's defeat and the devastating impact of nuclear warfare. Godzilla's appearance is widely believed to be a representation of the burnt and scorched skin of a survivor of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. The film's portrayal of Godzilla's atomic breath is a direct allusion to the nuclear blast that devastated these cities, leaving behind a scar on the fabric of Japanese history.

Other Metaphorical References:

Another significant metaphor in Godzilla is the ship, often a Japanese fishing vessel, a symbol of the fragile, devastated economy and society of post-War Japan. This vessel is frequently seen as a victim of the nuclear testing conducted by the United States, symbolizing the impact of external superpowers on a once-independent nation.

Hollywood’s Role in Whitewashing the Original Intent

Post-WWII Hiroshima and Nagasaki:

Hollywood has consistently reinterpreted the Godzilla mythos to fit its narrative needs, often downplaying or omitting the origins of Godzilla's power and the historical context that shaped it. The film 'Godzilla: Here There Be Dragons' stands out as an exception, one of the few that attempts to stay true to the original metaphorical framework established in the post-WWII era. In this film, Godzilla is positioned as a pre-WWII kaiju, a concept that solidifies its portrayal as a metaphor for a pre-War Japan grappling with its own turbulent history.

Why Does 'Godzilla: Here There Be Dragons' Stand Out?

Exploration of Pre-WWII Themes:

The uniqueness of 'Godzilla: Here There Be Dragons' lies in its exploration of pre-WWII Japan, a time period not often portrayed in Godzilla movies. The film delves into a Japan that was still recovering from the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923 and the economic recession that followed, setting the stage for a narrative of a nation facing potential doom from other forces. The story's central metaphor of Godzilla as a harbinger of disaster before the war speaks to the anxiety and uncertainty that plagued Japan in the interwar years.

Preservation of Heroic Japan:

In contrast to the Hollywood-reimagined version, 'Godzilla: Here There Be Dragons' aims to preserve Japan's heroic narrative, portraying the nation as a victim of external forces rather than an antagonist. By returning Godzilla to its pre-WWII context, the film offers a more authentic reflection of Japan's historical suffering and resilience.

Conclusion

While the post-War context of the original Godzilla movies offers rich metaphors that parallel Japan's experiences with nuclear devastation, the film 'Godzilla: Here There Be Dragons' uniquely highlights the pre-WWII era. This film challenges Hollywood’s portrayal of Godzilla by emphasizing the original intent behind the character and providing a refreshing perspective on Japan’s turbulent history. By exploring a period of time not typically scrutinized in the Godzilla franchise, the film offers a significant insight into the mythology and cultural significance of this enduring kaiju.