The mayhem continues, courtesy of Granny…
After the success of Frankenstein Conquers the World, Toho began a sequel. Hailed as one of the best kaiju movies, War of the Gargantuas (1966) sought to continue the Frankenstein storyline, developed to involve not one but two Frankensteins in combat with each other. The movie played on the good vs. evil theme, and was especially emotional since the brother giants were at odds with each other due to their opposing natures and thus drew sympathy from audiences despite their horrific appearance.
In the original Japanese movie, Sanda, the brown gargantua, was believed to be the Frankenstein from Frankenstein Conquers the World, although in flashbacks this young Frankenstein bore little resemblance to the feral boy found in the original movie. The green gargantua, Gaira, was believed to be Sanda’s cell offshoot. They were both referred to as “Frankenstein” until given their names. When the movie was dubbed for American audiences, all references to Frankenstein were removed and the giants simply called gargantuas. The movie was well received by fans. The special effects are top notch and the miniatures well constructed. The final battle of the two gargantuas in Tokyo and around Tokyo Bay is especially awe inspiring.
The two radio spots featured here showcase the battle of these giants as well as the awesome spectacle of the twin feature, Invasion of Astro Monster (1965), released in America as Monster Zero (1970). Developed as a sequel to Ghidrah the Three-Headed Monster, Monster Zero depicts Godzilla and Rodan teaming up to fight King Ghidorah, known as Monster Zero, at the request of aliens from Planet X who seek Earth’s help to fight him off. As might be expected, the aliens turn out to be deceivers who want to take over the earth by mind controlling the three monsters. Their plot fails, they are defeated, and Godzilla and Rodan must team up to protect Earth from King Ghidorah.
The miniatures, the split-screen shots and the fight scenes are impressive. Altogether, this was a double feature not to be missed! So, sit back and listen as these two double-feature radio spots showcase all the action these movies brought to the big screen in 1970!
Do you have any radio spots you would like to share? Contact Granny (Gary Fox) at [email protected].