Vera Farminga said it best in an article. “What I like about Mothra is that she is a creature that protects people rather than destroy their cities. Most monsters don’t really care about the people they crush.”
I would love a new Mothra movie where it’s not shadowed by Godzilla. Yes I know there’s the rebirth trilogy ect. but I think it’s almost time for another solo.
@@sastaassh1112 pretty much anyone who loves giant Kaiju in general and would love to see what messages could be made with a different lead Kaiju Basically anyone who's open-minded to see what's possible with a mothra solo film since we've already had so many Godzilla solo films Maybe Even lead to the birth of an era where several toho monsters could finally get their own solo films
Awesome intro also Mothra needs a new solo movie again. After kotm regular audience really feel in love with the giant moth. They deserve to understand how she became the number three of the big five.
@@DMan1954never say never. The Monsterverse is still popular dumb controversy aside and minus one is a stupid hit I say either bring us an American Mothra movie or ToHo give her a new movie. The skies the limit right now
Great video! Mothra is my favourite kaiju, because she is basically a nature kami of life, death, and rebirth remolded as a kaiju. She embodies the cycles of life and nature, which are complex (I did have a small laugh when you said she's more complex than Mother Nature). She is hostile when we are discordant with nature, benevolent when we are in harmony with it. She's also a very beautiful design and the first of the kaiju that weren't a variation on dinosaurs. It's nice to see her getting some attention.
Thank you so much! I think Mothra is one of the most interesting Kaiju because she is used to represent themes and ideas that no other Kaiju has attempted to comment on. Even today, she is still very unique in her messaging.
This was a really nice pallet cleanser after a certain recent video covering the Godzilla Franchise (not naming nobody but you can probably guess who I'm referring to) All I'll say is, it's nice to hear some good stuff said about the more lighthearted/whimsical side of Kaiju movies. Because who knows what Godzilla or other Kaiju franchises would be like if they had stuck strictly with the formula that Gojira had started
If they never changed the formula, the genre would be dead just like 50s sci-fi in the US. Thank you! Please consider sharing this one out there. It’s a shame to see people share a very uneducated and hateful video so much
I know which video you're talking about. A cursory read of the comments section made me realize watching their video itself would be a waste of time, and so I didn't.
Never expected that guy to be so shameless just to get some cheap views. Waiting for one video per month schedule just to get his garbage video. I enjoyed his Starfield roast video. Glad all Godzilla fans cook that fraud
@@fr0ck360 The video doesn't surprise me at all. Once normies got a hold of Godzilla and realized they could profit off of it, stuff like this was always going to happen. I know for a fact (because I talk to them bts) that some of the beloved members of this community care about these films far less than they let on. Even some of the people that only say nice things about these movies do it because they can make money off of Godzilla that way. Fans will never question those people because they say good things. But saying bad things can be even more profitable if done right. People within this fanbase tried that out back in the Shin Godzilla days to huge success. It was only a matter of time before normies far outside the fanbase stared doing the same stuff.
I Love Mothra, She’s My All-Time Favorite Toho Monster aside from Godzilla. The 1961 Film is a Phenomenal Toho Masterpiece. I especially love the Rebirth Of Mothra Trilogy, they were my first Toho Kaiju Films I watched that wasn’t Godzilla. They played on Encore (This was way before they merged with Starz.) all in order & I would record & watch them a lot, Such Great Memories. The Rebirth Of Mothra Trilogy was also The First Blu-Ray I ever bought when I was first released. Great Video As Always D Man1954.
Fantastic information packed video essay man! Mothra 1961 is one of the best of the showa era, great kaiju action, human characters and the soundtrack is so mesmerizing. I herd a rumor that Mothra might show up in GxK and I hope it's true
This is such a beautiful video because it made me realize just how important Mothra is; she’s my second fav kaiju after Godzilla of course but seeing how she single-handedly changed Godzilla’s personality in Ghidra the Three Headed Monster and infused comedy into the human cast to influence King Kong vs. Godzilla is so fascinating to think about. Mothra is great!!! Love this video and hope we can get more like these 😊
Thank you so much! Without Mothra, the human casts in monster movies would have never become so lively and memorable. They would have stayed as moody and melodramatic somber reflections on nuclear weapons and they would have died out long ago.
One thing I always find interesting about Mothra when compared to Godzilla is that Godzilla changes every few years, Mothra seems to more or less stay the same in every movie she appears in. The most changes she goes through are the abilities and powers she has in some movies, but characterization wise she's the same Mothra from the the very first Mothra movie.
So happy to see someone highlight this movie. It's been one of my favorite kaiju flicks for a long time and I feel like I never hear anyone talk about it. The human cast is so fun and memorable, and its got what has to be one of my top 5 favorite scores to a kaiju movie. Just so much to praise about it. Side-note, another Showa era movie I don't see praised enough is Gamera vs. Barugon. Easily the best of the Showa Gamera movies for me, and way up there as one of the best Showa kaiju movies for me in general.
Mothra is love and heart. It is light. Immaculate. It is the definition of the beauty. Everything is sacrifice. As Serizawa says when she sees it ... What beauty! ... I love her. Thanks for this huge video. Mothra causes emotions and awakens feeling in the world of Kaijus. Beauty and The Beast, Mothra and Godzilla. I love them. In love with her.
That was... creepy, but Very much appreciated! Today I went to lunch with my youngest son and we discussed films, as usual, and we talked about "Godzilla" and I tried to explain the "both sides of the Kaiju genre". Then a couple hours later this video came out. Great timing! As always thank you so very much for the videos.
I love Mothra! I love Godzilla and the other "monsters" but not really because of the destruction they are causing but how majestic they are. It's nice to see different sides to them and present a monster that cares and protects as well. None of them is evil as we understand it anyways but they act according to their own instincts and logic. Portraying a strange creature like this says a ton about the people and society it's created in, when there is no need to see everything "other" than you as an enemy or danger (which comes only from fear) and to instead try to understand. I don't even call that feminine as it aligns with a rational, inquisitive mindset too that seeks to see things for what they are instead of letting our primitive fears paint everything black and white. It's not any different from people in the past portraying other cultures they knew nothing of as wild dangerous barbarians or animals like lions and sharks as evil...i mean we still have that thinking around 🙄
Okay. I know this is going to sound weird, but... As someone who has never actually watched a Kaiju film, I adore Mothra. I've heard the story a few times, and it always gets me. While I also appreciate the original Godzilla and all of its symbolism and history, Mothra's story just has more heart.
Thank you for this! Not only are there still G-fans who belittle the Kaiju Queen but even her fans (including me) may not have thought about just how groundbreaking and influential her debut film was. This is really useful and thoughtful info.
This video is beautiful. Mothra is so special and is always such a treat, and now I see why. People don’t realize how impactful Mothra is. Alongside Gojira and King Kong, the three of them make the perfect trifecta. Humanities range of terror, fear, and bravery showcased in those icons.
Godzilla, Mothra, and King Kong truly are the perfect three Kaiju to represent the genre and humanity. They have more range and have been used to tell deeper stories than any other Kaiju. Basically the Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman of the monster world.
I hope Mothra is in the new empire movie, I would be amazing to see all three of them together. I wouldn’t surprise that Mothra is the one who convinced Godzilla and Kong to stop fighting each other and team against Shimo and the Scar King. It worked on Godzilla and Rodan before and Kong can be the new Rodan
Mothra was always a great change up from Godzilla for me. Loved how she always gave Godzilla a run for his money as a Capable foe and going as far as to talk him into joining forces with another Kaiju to fight a threat that means to destroy the world. As far as my opinion on the content produced in this essay format, I eat it up! Love the wording and trust the dialog was not produced by an AI and respect that the information being presented was created by the host! I must say the use of the word “titular” was used in a humane way by the human author! Therefore, I express my gratitude for your content and skills as an editor as well as a master of the human language! Bravo sir, bravo!!
Mothra is a fantastic breath of fresh air in the Godzilla marathons. It’s such a wonderful movie. Thank you so much!! The AI overloa… I mean human making these videos really appreciated that.
Have you seen "Rodan", "Godzilla Raids Again", "The Mysterians", or "Varan"? None of those follow the "Godzilla formula". You gotta brush up on your history before making videos-not trying to be a dick, I think you got some great videos!
My man. Of course, I have. Not only do I talk about those in depth in this video (with the exception of the alien invasion film The Mysterians, as that isn't a normal Kaiju movie). The entire discussion is around how those films follow a certain formula that Mothra breaks.
Amazing video, I've been in love with your Essays recently. Maybe turn this into a series? "Movies that defined the Kaiju Genre". Some suggestions: Beast from 20.000 Fathoms, Them!, Gamera 3 ROI, Daimajin, Pacific Rim, Goji 1954, KKvsG, Ultraman 1966 (I know its a show but still), Colossal, Cloverfield and so many more. I would love to hear your opinion on the most influental and important entries in our most beloved genre. Take care and keep up the fantastic work ❤
I have a series mapped out that is very similar. It isn’t a video essay series, but I’ve got a list of films that relate to the Godzilla series and how it changed over time either directly or indirectly that I would love to review
Great video, D Man! Very in depth. Which brings me back on that retrospective i'm working on (not sure if you got the update on the formate i sent you in Gmail) but for the videos you can join for, would you be down to join for King Kong Vs Godzilla?
I’ve been watching Godzilla since I was 2 , I’ve been watching Godzilla for 24 years, I’m 25 right now, I own all Godzilla movies including the Mothra rebirth movies that go with them, I own every showa era movie, I’m gonna admit, I just bought mothra 1961 2 years ago, and watched it for the first time and I can safely say that it’s one of my favorite showa era movies, I especially enjoyed the characters and it amazing how the character Chujo was reunited in the same role for Tokyo sos. It’s also unbelievably interesting that Mothra was still more popular than Godzilla back in the day before he hit his stride! I’ll be honest, rebirth of Mothra is mildly serious in the first one, the sequel is way too cartoony, and rebirth of Mothra 3 was the best, but most due to the fact that the story went back to serious and also the fact that toho brought in king Ghidorah to be the villain! You know despite their flaws I find them to be soothing, it’s nice that toho at least tried to give Mothra her own solo adventures as well as newly created villains!
I don't like the degree to which godzilla bends everything that shares ip with him. Things only exist insofar as they relate to him. Other kaiju don't matter enough. He's to superstarrish for any kaiju's good but his own good. You have Godzilla's on and off again group of three or four friends with historically only Mothra being distinct enough to carry plots of her own. and ghidorrah for a rival and past that there's just a a clique of monsters that he kills with regularity half of which are partially related to him. Stakes suffer for it. Kaiju...It should be more like wrestling with a good spread of babyfaces and heels. These wider ensembles before monsterverse's much needed attempts with kong barely developed things outside godzilla & mothra with the old brute overshadowing everything around him. jet jaguar, rodan, Gamora, Ultraman,(yes i know some there are different ip.) there should have long since become kaiju names with gravitas enough to be the ray mysterios & kevin nash's to goji's John cena.
2:54 raids again isn't as serious as the original. I mean come on they're literally laughing and telling jokes after Osaka was destroyed. How is that serious?
The film is a serious movie with very dramatic scenes. The character are lighter hearted than the characters in the first. That’s the difference. The characters in the first movie are fighting to save the world, in the second movie the characters don’t realize they matter and so to them, their personal stakes are only about when they get married or where they live now.
I remember seeing the original Mothra movie on HBO when I was a kid. I never knew Mothra had her own solo film when I was little? The movie is a classic and a masterpiece! Plus Mothra is a really great kaiju! Hopefully we get more Mothra especially in the Monsterverse. Great job on this video.
This was a very interesting video by the way speaking of monster movies have you heard that Tim Burton is doing a remake of the attack of the 50 foot woman
I don't really like Mothra because it has a two hundred foot problem looming over it and that problem is named "Gorgo". See, Gorgo attacked London in order to get back its offspring from greedy showman seeking to profit off it while Mothra does it to get back its... miniature singing duo the Peanuts. The sequel, the MUCH BETTER sequel Mothra versus Godzilla, changes its goal from .... that... to its egg which makes the Gorgo influence more blatant and more obviously what they should have done in the first movie. The Peanuts are still there, they still sing but at least they're not part of the main plot without any sort of explanation. They can still disappear and reappear at will but at least when they don't do it, it doesn't affect what happens.
The Peanuts were one of the biggest pop groups in Japan at the time the film came out. Their inclusion is what made it such a hit and that success revitalized the genre. Gorgo is fine, but the film is fairly slow and dull. While the monster's motivation is great, the film itself is not on the same level in terms of quality. By having the Shobijin at the center of Mothra, the film had a voice and a human perspective to help the audience connect with the monster on a deeper level. This was the first time Toho had ever attempted this type of plotline and using a human voice to help smooth things over was the wise call.
In all seriousness, Mothra does deserve a remake simply for its great plot alone, which can work for a modern audience. Just get the director and crew behind Godzilla-1 to remake the film, and you have a new masterpiece. 🦋🐛
Any director with a really solid grasp on human stories will be great. Yamazaki could be amazing because of his balance between humor, heart, and horror
I was never a big fan of the solo Mothra film as a kid because well…there was no Godzilla lol. I appreciate it way more now as an adult and I don’t need Godzilla in every Kaiju film to enjoy them now.
Derick I love what you do but I hate your willingness to be dishonest. How old are you bro? What is wrong with your wrists.? Why do you feel it necessary to hide your age?
What on Earth are you talking about? 😂😂 my wrists? Idk what kind of conspiracies exist, but I am so very honest about that and talk about it so often. lol. And you must not watch many livestreams if you’re confused about my age.
What's the animated part from at 4:10 ? Amazing video btw Mothra is one the best kaijus out there and I'm glad you gave her the recognition she deserves for her importance.
Grew up as a kid loving both Mothra and Godzilla. Grew up a little, saw the Godzilla movies and hated her for defeating him all the time. Then I fully matured, saw another Kaiju TH-camr's video on the importance of her and accepted her for what she is. Now that I've seen this, I fully forgave Mothra for kicking Godzilla's butt all the time. lol. Thank you! Godzilla ♥Mothra forever!
@@DMan1954 I tried thinking about it. Perhaps Godzilla has a fear of web? Or maybe there is a sedative/paralyzing agent in Kaiju web? That would explain why Godzilla lost to Mothra's baby larva and had difficulty fighting Kumonga.
@@DMan1954 When I first watched "Mothra vs. Godzilla", I was at my grandparents' house. They are the ones who got me into the kaiju genre by showing me the old early Showa era Godzilla films. I got mad and yelled when Godzilla lost to the Mothra larva. My grandparents had no idea why I was reacting that way. They were very confused. lol. Since then, it's fine with me.
@@DMan1954 I've always wondered... Why does Godzilla lose to opponents who use web? Does he have some fear of webbing? Or is there something sedative in kaiju web? It'd make sense why Godzilla loses to Mothra's larval children and struggled to fight Kumonga in "Son of Godzilla". But I honestly think the simple answer is that it's just because kaiju web is too strong to break free from.
@@alphadragonwolfwarrior6373 Godzilla and Mothra are both "it" in Japan. The pronouns prescribed to them by the dubs are to westernize the characters a little more. Mothra is called "he" in the early Showa films. It wasn't until the 90s that Mothra was FULLY recognized as a female, although it started much sooner than that.
@@DMan1954 Oh, okay. That makes sense. Thanks for explaining. I love her divinity and her feminine energy provides a nice balance to Godzilla's masculinity and more "kingly" attributes.
I sure hope that Godzilla [Gojira] Minuse One, gets the Nomination, as it has been the best film for 2023, so far! I love the Mothra film from i believe 1961, i saw the japense version with english subtittles, as I don't like dubbed films, period.
You can enjoy your videos even if you don't understand English. I think it's because the video editing is amazing. Thank you for translating the "Summary" into Japanese.
I recall Mothra's plot as more inspired by the *other* ur-kaiju movie, "King Kong." Only it split the King Kong role between Mothra herself (the giant creature motivated by love) and the Shobijin (the sympathetic captives being exploited by an unscrupulous promoter). And it was set in America-with-the-serial-numbers-filed-off. I remember thinking of it as part of the transition where these movies went from serious to silly and kid-oriented, and as such not necessarily a good thing, but of course either formula can get stuck in a rut, and at this point what it was doing probably did seem fresh and new.
Mothra is very clearly inspired by King Kong. A journey to a mysterious island leads a greedy showman to kidnap a sacred being. The promoter puts his victim on display for the world during a show leading to a monster rampage through the city that eventually takes is higher and higher into the sky. Mothra was the key pivot from serious to lighthearted, but the silly aspect was only a bi-product of her success, not the direct result of it. That happened Godzilla started appealing more to children throughout the 60s. The final push happened when Gamera and Ultraman rose in popularity for being so childish.
Mothra is my favorite monster ever since I was a kid and her original movie was a staple for movie history because I think thanks to her we got other characters that while they do bad things they aren’t doing for the bloodshed
The older I get, the more I grow to truly love Mothra and appreciate her as one of my favorite Kaiju. When I was a kid, I wasn’t as I to her, but now I think she’s great.
I really like Mothra, she's the best kaiju outhere and the impact of her film was Great 👍👍. I hope that either Toho or Legendary gave us a solo film for her, she really needs one these years, it could be like minus one or an animated film a la Spiderverse or Klaus.
Thank-you for such a great video about my favorite kaiju. I can only hope the same people who made Minus one will make a Mothra movie since the hollywood version is far too much a version that threatens the male-american/male kaiju modern concepts. The hollywood version of Mothra is far too small and made to be way too human female looking, think of the old-fashioned warner bros cartoons of hourglass shaped insect cartoon characters, and mosquito-wasp creature with mantis arms. We need a Mothra that is massive in body size, thick bodied, "Amazon" bodied that is still wonderfully benevolent though not at all meek appearing. She is the Queen of the Kaiju and a gigantic creature. Move over insecure and fragile male Kaiju artists, it's the GODDESS of KAIJU!
I don't think that was the line of thinking behind Mothra's newest design. They wanted her to look more deadly, so rather than pulling inspiration from moths, they took inspiration from more aggressive insects. But I do agree. I would love to see a Mothra film made in Japan today.
Godzilla was fully willing to let Ghidorah destroy the planet because he hated humanity. It was Mothra going into battle by herself that inspired the change within Godzilla and made him step up and do the right thing.
He found the concept of having the two monsters fight to be silly, so he used that to make a comedy satirizing the rise in commercialism and the growing pains of capitalism in Japan. He never intended for the monster scenes to be silly.
Mothra has always been my favorite kaiju. I loved Godzilla growing up, the monster fights and the music set my imagination ablaze. But Mothra in some strange way acted as a third force to counter both man and Godzilla. She was life itself, regardless of faction or motivation and was beyond 'sides'. That resonated with me deeply. The original movie was phenomenal. Been taking my girlfriend through as much of the overall franchise as possible but mainly just the Godzilla movies and standalone Mothra trilogy. A journey I haven't taken in about a 7 years myself, so it's been nice to introduce another fan to one of the greatest movie legacies in history.
That’s fantastic! It’s always so much fun to introduce new people to this stuff. I hope she’s loving it! Yeah, Mothra is a very different type of monster. That’s why she resonates so much to this day. She stands for something completely different than either Godzilla or his peers.
@@DMan1954 Definitely. She's enjoying herself a lot!! She started off loving all the work they put into the miniatures but has started to really enjoy the kaiju too, particularly Mothra and Rodan.
Some of the original Mothra hasn't aged particularly well (more specifically the brownface used for the natives...it was the 60s) but despite me having that critique of the film I still can't help but love it, not only is Mothra a beautiful and cute moth, she's also a great character and her prop has aged REALLY well in my opinion. There's a charm to how Godzilla looks in the Showa era, but Mothra's puppet is genuinely great and I'd argue still holds up today. I don't usually watch stuff from the 60s (unless it's Doctor Who, since I've been a fan of that show for basically my whole life), but Mothra is a special exception. She needs another movie, she really deserves one 🦋
For this reason I come to believe that if minus one is to have a sequel is through a trilogy. A mothra solo movie and then a mothra vs Godzilla movie. The solo movie might not do so well, but can become popular after a vs movie that shows mothra as the forgiving part of nature and counterweight to godzillas rage and pain. Heck even an ending like Godzilla rivals (vs mothra) comic would be a great way to show this imagery.
Or even take inspiration from mothra though another monster like biollante. Who is part human and has conflicts between killing them for creating her or not to not feel lonely. Despite humans trying to kill her ad she is seen as a menace to our existence. And then a Godzilla vs biollante movie.
Vera Farminga said it best in an article.
“What I like about Mothra is that she is a creature that protects people rather than destroy their cities. Most monsters don’t really care about the people they crush.”
That’s what Mothra brought to the table and that idea is still changing the foundations of Kaiju to this day
Mothra’s solo movie is great. It has the typical monster destruction, but they’re is a unique whimsical feeling through it
It’s truly the best of the craft.
I would love a new Mothra movie where it’s not shadowed by Godzilla. Yes I know there’s the rebirth trilogy ect. but I think it’s almost time for another solo.
@@elliotgandersen I totally agree.
@@elliotgandersen and who tf is gonna watch a solo m9thra movie without Godzilla in in??😂
@@sastaassh1112 pretty much anyone who loves giant Kaiju in general and would love to see what messages could be made with a different lead Kaiju
Basically anyone who's open-minded to see what's possible with a mothra solo film since we've already had so many Godzilla solo films
Maybe Even lead to the birth of an era where several toho monsters could finally get their own solo films
Awesome intro also Mothra needs a new solo movie again. After kotm regular audience really feel in love with the giant moth. They deserve to understand how she became the number three of the big five.
I don’t think a US solo film would do well. But an emphasis in Monarch or a Japanese film could be amazing!
@@DMan1954never say never. The Monsterverse is still popular dumb controversy aside and minus one is a stupid hit I say either bring us an American Mothra movie or ToHo give her a new movie. The skies the limit right now
No casual moviegoers walked out of KOTM in love with Mothra. She was in the movie for about 30 seconds and didn't do anything.
Dumb us audience just want to see giqnt monke fighting godzilla😂
Great video! Mothra is my favourite kaiju, because she is basically a nature kami of life, death, and rebirth remolded as a kaiju. She embodies the cycles of life and nature, which are complex (I did have a small laugh when you said she's more complex than Mother Nature). She is hostile when we are discordant with nature, benevolent when we are in harmony with it. She's also a very beautiful design and the first of the kaiju that weren't a variation on dinosaurs. It's nice to see her getting some attention.
Thank you so much! I think Mothra is one of the most interesting Kaiju because she is used to represent themes and ideas that no other Kaiju has attempted to comment on. Even today, she is still very unique in her messaging.
This was a really nice pallet cleanser after a certain recent video covering the Godzilla Franchise (not naming nobody but you can probably guess who I'm referring to)
All I'll say is, it's nice to hear some good stuff said about the more lighthearted/whimsical side of Kaiju movies. Because who knows what Godzilla or other Kaiju franchises would be like if they had stuck strictly with the formula that Gojira had started
If they never changed the formula, the genre would be dead just like 50s sci-fi in the US.
Thank you! Please consider sharing this one out there. It’s a shame to see people share a very uneducated and hateful video so much
I know which video you're talking about. A cursory read of the comments section made me realize watching their video itself would be a waste of time, and so I didn't.
Im assuming it’s that one dude that said America can’t do Godzilla and that 90% of goji films suck?
Never expected that guy to be so shameless just to get some cheap views. Waiting for one video per month schedule just to get his garbage video. I enjoyed his Starfield roast video. Glad all Godzilla fans cook that fraud
@@fr0ck360 The video doesn't surprise me at all. Once normies got a hold of Godzilla and realized they could profit off of it, stuff like this was always going to happen. I know for a fact (because I talk to them bts) that some of the beloved members of this community care about these films far less than they let on. Even some of the people that only say nice things about these movies do it because they can make money off of Godzilla that way. Fans will never question those people because they say good things. But saying bad things can be even more profitable if done right. People within this fanbase tried that out back in the Shin Godzilla days to huge success. It was only a matter of time before normies far outside the fanbase stared doing the same stuff.
It would be so interesting to see a Mothra Minus one type film, with a similar vibe as the original but goes more into the extremes of the character.
I completely agree
@@DMan1954heck if it’s a sequel to Minus One, you can call it
Mothra: Plus Two
The Mothra with the twins is so dope, iconic IMO
For sure!
The Beautiful Little Shobijin ‼️🇯🇵
Mothra will always be my Queen, and my favorite kaiju alongside Godzilla, Gamera and King Kong.
She’s the best!
Lol you lost me when you said monke kong😂😂
I Love Mothra, She’s My All-Time Favorite Toho Monster aside from Godzilla. The 1961 Film is a Phenomenal Toho Masterpiece. I especially love the Rebirth Of Mothra Trilogy, they were my first Toho Kaiju Films I watched that wasn’t Godzilla. They played on Encore (This was way before they merged with Starz.) all in order & I would record & watch them a lot, Such Great Memories. The Rebirth Of Mothra Trilogy was also The First Blu-Ray I ever bought when I was first released. Great Video As Always D Man1954.
Thank you so much! I owned the set with Rebirth 2 and 3 and used to watch 2 quite frequently as a kid.
Fantastic information packed video essay man! Mothra 1961 is one of the best of the showa era, great kaiju action, human characters and the soundtrack is so mesmerizing. I herd a rumor that Mothra might show up in GxK and I hope it's true
The original Mothra truly is a masterpiece. I hope more people continue to discover that wonderful film
This is such a beautiful video because it made me realize just how important Mothra is; she’s my second fav kaiju after Godzilla of course but seeing how she single-handedly changed Godzilla’s personality in Ghidra the Three Headed Monster and infused comedy into the human cast to influence King Kong vs. Godzilla is so fascinating to think about. Mothra is great!!! Love this video and hope we can get more like these 😊
Thank you so much! Without Mothra, the human casts in monster movies would have never become so lively and memorable. They would have stayed as moody and melodramatic somber reflections on nuclear weapons and they would have died out long ago.
One thing I always find interesting about Mothra when compared to Godzilla is that Godzilla changes every few years, Mothra seems to more or less stay the same in every movie she appears in. The most changes she goes through are the abilities and powers she has in some movies, but characterization wise she's the same Mothra from the the very first Mothra movie.
So happy to see someone highlight this movie. It's been one of my favorite kaiju flicks for a long time and I feel like I never hear anyone talk about it. The human cast is so fun and memorable, and its got what has to be one of my top 5 favorite scores to a kaiju movie. Just so much to praise about it.
Side-note, another Showa era movie I don't see praised enough is Gamera vs. Barugon. Easily the best of the Showa Gamera movies for me, and way up there as one of the best Showa kaiju movies for me in general.
Mothra is love and heart. It is light. Immaculate. It is the definition of the beauty. Everything is sacrifice. As Serizawa says when she sees it ... What beauty! ...
I love her.
Thanks for this huge video. Mothra causes emotions and awakens feeling in the world of Kaijus.
Beauty and The Beast, Mothra and Godzilla.
I love them.
In love with her.
Thank you so much! I’m glad the video was able to resonate with you
Godzilla is much prettier😂
That was... creepy, but Very much appreciated!
Today I went to lunch with my youngest son and we discussed films, as usual, and we talked about "Godzilla" and I tried to explain the "both sides of the Kaiju genre". Then a couple hours later this video came out. Great timing!
As always thank you so very much for the videos.
Thank you! I hope I was able to help articulate your point a little bit. lol
I love Mothra! I love Godzilla and the other "monsters" but not really because of the destruction they are causing but how majestic they are. It's nice to see different sides to them and present a monster that cares and protects as well. None of them is evil as we understand it anyways but they act according to their own instincts and logic. Portraying a strange creature like this says a ton about the people and society it's created in, when there is no need to see everything "other" than you as an enemy or danger (which comes only from fear) and to instead try to understand. I don't even call that feminine as it aligns with a rational, inquisitive mindset too that seeks to see things for what they are instead of letting our primitive fears paint everything black and white. It's not any different from people in the past portraying other cultures they knew nothing of as wild dangerous barbarians or animals like lions and sharks as evil...i mean we still have that thinking around 🙄
Mothra's a much better strong female hero than Bree Larson.
Okay. I know this is going to sound weird, but...
As someone who has never actually watched a Kaiju film, I adore Mothra. I've heard the story a few times, and it always gets me. While I also appreciate the original Godzilla and all of its symbolism and history, Mothra's story just has more heart.
Thank you for this! Not only are there still G-fans who belittle the Kaiju Queen but even her fans (including me) may not have thought about just how groundbreaking and influential her debut film was. This is really useful and thoughtful info.
Thank you so much! I feel like the original Mothra is so often overlooked that I wanted to discuss it’s important for everyone
This video is beautiful. Mothra is so special and is always such a treat, and now I see why.
People don’t realize how impactful Mothra is.
Alongside Gojira and King Kong, the three of them make the perfect trifecta. Humanities range of terror, fear, and bravery showcased in those icons.
Godzilla, Mothra, and King Kong truly are the perfect three Kaiju to represent the genre and humanity. They have more range and have been used to tell deeper stories than any other Kaiju. Basically the Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman of the monster world.
I hope Mothra is in the new empire movie, I would be amazing to see all three of them together. I wouldn’t surprise that Mothra is the one who convinced Godzilla and Kong to stop fighting each other and team against Shimo and the Scar King. It worked on Godzilla and Rodan before and Kong can be the new Rodan
Why you clowns keep on inserting dumb monke in on everything 😂😂
@@andreaparedes1987 please stop with with monkeverse shit already I wang to see real monsters like godzilla, rodan and rest not dumb monke
Mothra was always a great change up from Godzilla for me. Loved how she always gave Godzilla a run for his money as a Capable foe and going as far as to talk him into joining forces with another Kaiju to fight a threat that means to destroy the world.
As far as my opinion on the content produced in this essay format, I eat it up! Love the wording and trust the dialog was not produced by an AI and respect that the information being presented was created by the host! I must say the use of the word “titular” was used in a humane way by the human author! Therefore, I express my gratitude for your content and skills as an editor as well as a master of the human language! Bravo sir, bravo!!
Mothra is a fantastic breath of fresh air in the Godzilla marathons. It’s such a wonderful movie.
Thank you so much!! The AI overloa… I mean human making these videos really appreciated that.
Tbh we have to think Kong and mothra for godzila’s lighter tone and popularity as a whole
Lol where tf monke come in from😂😂 and godzilla had nothing to do with that monkey😂
Have you seen "Rodan", "Godzilla Raids Again", "The Mysterians", or "Varan"? None of those follow the "Godzilla formula". You gotta brush up on your history before making videos-not trying to be a dick, I think you got some great videos!
My man. Of course, I have. Not only do I talk about those in depth in this video (with the exception of the alien invasion film The Mysterians, as that isn't a normal Kaiju movie). The entire discussion is around how those films follow a certain formula that Mothra breaks.
Amazing video, I've been in love with your Essays recently. Maybe turn this into a series? "Movies that defined the Kaiju Genre". Some suggestions: Beast from 20.000 Fathoms, Them!, Gamera 3 ROI, Daimajin, Pacific Rim, Goji 1954, KKvsG, Ultraman 1966 (I know its a show but still), Colossal, Cloverfield and so many more. I would love to hear your opinion on the most influental and important entries in our most beloved genre. Take care and keep up the fantastic work ❤
I have a series mapped out that is very similar. It isn’t a video essay series, but I’ve got a list of films that relate to the Godzilla series and how it changed over time either directly or indirectly that I would love to review
Mothra is an interesting concept, so radically different from the standard.
And I am so thankful for it!
Great video, D Man! Very in depth. Which brings me back on that retrospective i'm working on (not sure if you got the update on the formate i sent you in Gmail) but for the videos you can join for, would you be down to join for King Kong Vs Godzilla?
I did not see that yet. I’ve been overworking myself like crazy. So I haven’t been checking as much. I’ll have to check it out
@@DMan1954 No worries! Just let me know your thoughts when possible 😁
I’ve been watching Godzilla since I was 2 , I’ve been watching Godzilla for 24 years, I’m 25 right now, I own all Godzilla movies including the Mothra rebirth movies that go with them, I own every showa era movie, I’m gonna admit, I just bought mothra 1961 2 years ago, and watched it for the first time and I can safely say that it’s one of my favorite showa era movies, I especially enjoyed the characters and it amazing how the character Chujo was reunited in the same role for Tokyo sos. It’s also unbelievably interesting that Mothra was still more popular than Godzilla back in the day before he hit his stride! I’ll be honest, rebirth of Mothra is mildly serious in the first one, the sequel is way too cartoony, and rebirth of Mothra 3 was the best, but most due to the fact that the story went back to serious and also the fact that toho brought in king Ghidorah to be the villain! You know despite their flaws I find them to be soothing, it’s nice that toho at least tried to give Mothra her own solo adventures as well as newly created villains!
Mothra is actually my favorite Kaiju. I've been made fun of for liking " a big @$$ moth" more than Gojira.
I don't like the degree to which godzilla bends everything that shares ip with him. Things only exist insofar as they relate to him. Other kaiju don't matter enough. He's to superstarrish for any kaiju's good but his own good. You have Godzilla's on and off again group of three or four friends with historically only Mothra being distinct enough to carry plots of her own. and ghidorrah for a rival and past that there's just a a clique of monsters that he kills with regularity half of which are partially related to him.
Stakes suffer for it. Kaiju...It should be more like wrestling with a good spread of babyfaces and heels. These wider ensembles before monsterverse's much needed attempts with kong barely developed things outside godzilla & mothra with the old brute overshadowing everything around him. jet jaguar, rodan, Gamora, Ultraman,(yes i know some there are different ip.) there should have long since become kaiju names with gravitas enough to be the ray mysterios & kevin nash's to goji's John cena.
2:54 raids again isn't as serious as the original. I mean come on they're literally laughing and telling jokes after Osaka was destroyed. How is that serious?
The film is a serious movie with very dramatic scenes. The character are lighter hearted than the characters in the first. That’s the difference. The characters in the first movie are fighting to save the world, in the second movie the characters don’t realize they matter and so to them, their personal stakes are only about when they get married or where they live now.
Excellent documentary, D-Man! Thank you for doing it!
14:30 is that a giant turtle doing a gymnastics routine!?! 👀
He sure is!
@@DMan1954"You know, guys. It just dawned on me, how...how weird this movie is, you know? Kinda goofy."
it's so wild after watching all these films now hearing the context of this is fascinating
I remember seeing the original Mothra movie on HBO when I was a kid. I never knew Mothra had her own solo film when I was little? The movie is a classic and a masterpiece! Plus Mothra is a really great kaiju! Hopefully we get more Mothra especially in the Monsterverse. Great job on this video.
Thank you!!
An excellent presentation. Entertaining and thought provoking. Thank you
Thank you!
Man that looks pretty good
This was a very interesting video by the way speaking of monster movies have you heard that Tim Burton is doing a remake of the attack of the 50 foot woman
I did hear that. That’s gonna be so much fun!
@@DMan1954 you can say that again
I don't really like Mothra because it has a two hundred foot problem looming over it and that problem is named "Gorgo". See, Gorgo attacked London in order to get back its offspring from greedy showman seeking to profit off it while Mothra does it to get back its... miniature singing duo the Peanuts.
The sequel, the MUCH BETTER sequel Mothra versus Godzilla, changes its goal from .... that... to its egg which makes the Gorgo influence more blatant and more obviously what they should have done in the first movie. The Peanuts are still there, they still sing but at least they're not part of the main plot without any sort of explanation. They can still disappear and reappear at will but at least when they don't do it, it doesn't affect what happens.
The Peanuts were one of the biggest pop groups in Japan at the time the film came out. Their inclusion is what made it such a hit and that success revitalized the genre. Gorgo is fine, but the film is fairly slow and dull. While the monster's motivation is great, the film itself is not on the same level in terms of quality.
By having the Shobijin at the center of Mothra, the film had a voice and a human perspective to help the audience connect with the monster on a deeper level. This was the first time Toho had ever attempted this type of plotline and using a human voice to help smooth things over was the wise call.
In all seriousness, Mothra does deserve a remake simply for its great plot alone, which can work for a modern audience. Just get the director and crew behind Godzilla-1 to remake the film, and you have a new masterpiece.
🦋🐛
Any director with a really solid grasp on human stories will be great. Yamazaki could be amazing because of his balance between humor, heart, and horror
Cant believe we are at "feminine kaiju that doesn't do masculine things like politics". Girls is wanting equal rights too un feminine?
I don’t think you quite understood what I was talking about
I was never a big fan of the solo Mothra film as a kid because well…there was no Godzilla lol. I appreciate it way more now as an adult and I don’t need Godzilla in every Kaiju film to enjoy them now.
I didn’t enjoy Rodan as a kid for the same reason. Now I rather enjoy the change of pace when Godzilla isn’t involved
Derick I love what you do but I hate your willingness to be dishonest. How old are you bro? What is wrong with your wrists.? Why do you feel it necessary to hide your age?
What on Earth are you talking about? 😂😂 my wrists? Idk what kind of conspiracies exist, but I am so very honest about that and talk about it so often. lol. And you must not watch many livestreams if you’re confused about my age.
I liked Varan's design; I wish there had been a better film around it.
Maybe someday!
I wish that the mentioned Novel of Morthra was available here in the states in English.
Me too!
Where did the animated sequence at 4:10 come from?
I actually don’t know. But I love the clip
Why this feel like a respond to *that video* ?
This video was in the works before that one even came out. lol
What's the animated part from at 4:10 ?
Amazing video btw Mothra is one the best kaijus out there and I'm glad you gave her the recognition she deserves for her importance.
Thank you so much!
Ya know 😂 I have no idea. I’ve always wished someone else would tell me. lol
I believe it’s in the Godzilla: SP ending credits
@@ZG2008 It's from a film from the 80s or 90s, I think.
A very good analysis.
Thanks!
I literally watched her movie for the first time a few days ago!
I hope you enjoyed it!
@@DMan1954 I did, it's not a personal movie I would like the watch over and over, but there's nothing bad about it, *4/5*
...and varan
Grew up as a kid loving both Mothra and Godzilla. Grew up a little, saw the Godzilla movies and hated her for defeating him all the time. Then I fully matured, saw another Kaiju TH-camr's video on the importance of her and accepted her for what she is. Now that I've seen this, I fully forgave Mothra for kicking Godzilla's butt all the time. lol. Thank you! Godzilla ♥Mothra forever!
When I was a kid, I really liked Mothra but hated her babies because they defeated Godzilla. I totally get it. lol
@@DMan1954 I tried thinking about it. Perhaps Godzilla has a fear of web? Or maybe there is a sedative/paralyzing agent in Kaiju web? That would explain why Godzilla lost to Mothra's baby larva and had difficulty fighting Kumonga.
@@DMan1954 When I first watched "Mothra vs. Godzilla", I was at my grandparents' house. They are the ones who got me into the kaiju genre by showing me the old early Showa era Godzilla films. I got mad and yelled when Godzilla lost to the Mothra larva. My grandparents had no idea why I was reacting that way. They were very confused. lol. Since then, it's fine with me.
@@DMan1954 I've always wondered... Why does Godzilla lose to opponents who use web? Does he have some fear of webbing? Or is there something sedative in kaiju web? It'd make sense why Godzilla loses to Mothra's larval children and struggled to fight Kumonga in "Son of Godzilla". But I honestly think the simple answer is that it's just because kaiju web is too strong to break free from.
There for a second I thought you were going to say what you just thanked me for not saying lol
Yes! I answered the poll correctly XD
It’s just my opinion… but it’s a fact! 😂
@@DMan1954 Opinion can be fact! Lol
@@DMan1954It just hit me, isn't the original movie Mothra a male rather than a female?
@@alphadragonwolfwarrior6373 Godzilla and Mothra are both "it" in Japan. The pronouns prescribed to them by the dubs are to westernize the characters a little more. Mothra is called "he" in the early Showa films. It wasn't until the 90s that Mothra was FULLY recognized as a female, although it started much sooner than that.
@@DMan1954 Oh, okay. That makes sense. Thanks for explaining.
I love her divinity and her feminine energy provides a nice balance to Godzilla's masculinity and more "kingly" attributes.
Mothra is my spirit animal. ❤
She’s the best
I sure hope that Godzilla [Gojira] Minuse One, gets the Nomination, as it has been the best film for 2023, so far! I love the Mothra film from i believe 1961, i saw the japense version with english subtittles, as I don't like dubbed films, period.
I hope Godzilla -1.0 wins the award as well. It has done very well at other awards shows.
You can enjoy your videos even if you don't understand English. I think it's because the video editing is amazing. Thank you for translating the "Summary" into Japanese.
Thank you so much! I greatly appreciate that! I have just updated the subtitles so there is a Japanese option.
I recall Mothra's plot as more inspired by the *other* ur-kaiju movie, "King Kong." Only it split the King Kong role between Mothra herself (the giant creature motivated by love) and the Shobijin (the sympathetic captives being exploited by an unscrupulous promoter). And it was set in America-with-the-serial-numbers-filed-off.
I remember thinking of it as part of the transition where these movies went from serious to silly and kid-oriented, and as such not necessarily a good thing, but of course either formula can get stuck in a rut, and at this point what it was doing probably did seem fresh and new.
Mothra is very clearly inspired by King Kong. A journey to a mysterious island leads a greedy showman to kidnap a sacred being. The promoter puts his victim on display for the world during a show leading to a monster rampage through the city that eventually takes is higher and higher into the sky.
Mothra was the key pivot from serious to lighthearted, but the silly aspect was only a bi-product of her success, not the direct result of it. That happened Godzilla started appealing more to children throughout the 60s. The final push happened when Gamera and Ultraman rose in popularity for being so childish.
Mothra is my favorite monster ever since I was a kid and her original movie was a staple for movie history because I think thanks to her we got other characters that while they do bad things they aren’t doing for the bloodshed
The older I get, the more I grow to truly love Mothra and appreciate her as one of my favorite Kaiju. When I was a kid, I wasn’t as I to her, but now I think she’s great.
Great video! Love the history and your analysis. Thank you!
Thank you so much!
Wowsers this is quite interesting and I just love the part where mothras theme plays by the two sisters it’s like they’re worshipping the moth
Thanks!
I really like Mothra, she's the best kaiju outhere and the impact of her film was Great 👍👍.
I hope that either Toho or Legendary gave us a solo film for her, she really needs one these years, it could be like minus one or an animated film a la Spiderverse or Klaus.
I would love a new Mothra film!
@@DMan1954 me too.😃😃
Animated even better.
Beautiful video for my fav Kaiju
Thank you so much!
Oh snap! Fanny pack spotted at 2:51!
Lol
Very informative.
Thank you!
let see what part mothra will play in the next battle
Thank-you for such a great video about my favorite kaiju. I can only hope the same people who made Minus one will make a Mothra movie since the hollywood version is far too much a version that threatens the male-american/male kaiju modern concepts. The hollywood version of Mothra is far too small and made to be way too human female looking, think of the old-fashioned warner bros cartoons of hourglass shaped insect cartoon characters, and mosquito-wasp creature with mantis arms. We need a Mothra that is massive in body size, thick bodied, "Amazon" bodied that is still wonderfully benevolent though not at all meek appearing. She is the Queen of the Kaiju and a gigantic creature. Move over insecure and fragile male Kaiju artists, it's the GODDESS of KAIJU!
I don't think that was the line of thinking behind Mothra's newest design. They wanted her to look more deadly, so rather than pulling inspiration from moths, they took inspiration from more aggressive insects. But I do agree. I would love to see a Mothra film made in Japan today.
11:12 you made a mistake!, Mothra didn’t change Godzilla’s character, Ghidorah himself changed Godzilla from being the bad guy to a good guy Dman!
Godzilla was fully willing to let Ghidorah destroy the planet because he hated humanity. It was Mothra going into battle by herself that inspired the change within Godzilla and made him step up and do the right thing.
@@DMan1954 she convinced him to change, but Godzilla disagreed because humans treat him like the bad guy before having second thoughts
@@DMan1954 plus, was there a reason why Honda made King Kong vs Godzilla campy?
He found the concept of having the two monsters fight to be silly, so he used that to make a comedy satirizing the rise in commercialism and the growing pains of capitalism in Japan. He never intended for the monster scenes to be silly.
@@DMan1954 was Godzilla vs Megalon the only Showa Godzilla movie that gave Godzilla the bad reputation?
Mothra has always been my favorite kaiju.
I loved Godzilla growing up, the monster fights and the music set my imagination ablaze. But Mothra in some strange way acted as a third force to counter both man and Godzilla. She was life itself, regardless of faction or motivation and was
beyond 'sides'. That resonated with me deeply.
The original movie was phenomenal. Been taking my girlfriend through as much of the overall franchise as possible but mainly just the Godzilla movies and standalone Mothra trilogy. A journey I haven't taken in about a 7 years myself, so it's been nice to introduce another fan to one of the greatest movie legacies in history.
That’s fantastic! It’s always so much fun to introduce new people to this stuff. I hope she’s loving it!
Yeah, Mothra is a very different type of monster. That’s why she resonates so much to this day. She stands for something completely different than either Godzilla or his peers.
@@DMan1954 Definitely. She's enjoying herself a lot!!
She started off loving all the work they put into the miniatures but has started to really enjoy the kaiju too, particularly Mothra and Rodan.
What I like
About Kong
Is
He a protector and
❤️ his home
& will
Defend it
From his
FO,S.
Some of the original Mothra hasn't aged particularly well (more specifically the brownface used for the natives...it was the 60s) but despite me having that critique of the film I still can't help but love it, not only is Mothra a beautiful and cute moth, she's also a great character and her prop has aged REALLY well in my opinion. There's a charm to how Godzilla looks in the Showa era, but Mothra's puppet is genuinely great and I'd argue still holds up today. I don't usually watch stuff from the 60s (unless it's Doctor Who, since I've been a fan of that show for basically my whole life), but Mothra is a special exception. She needs another movie, she really deserves one 🦋
I completely agree!
Mothra is, imo, as good as Gojira.
Lol😂
For this reason I come to believe that if minus one is to have a sequel is through a trilogy. A mothra solo movie and then a mothra vs Godzilla movie. The solo movie might not do so well, but can become popular after a vs movie that shows mothra as the forgiving part of nature and counterweight to godzillas rage and pain. Heck even an ending like Godzilla rivals (vs mothra) comic would be a great way to show this imagery.
Or even take inspiration from mothra though another monster like biollante. Who is part human and has conflicts between killing them for creating her or not to not feel lonely. Despite humans trying to kill her ad she is seen as a menace to our existence. And then a Godzilla vs biollante movie.
I would rather they do a Mothra film that isn’t connected to Minus One. Nothing worth with making a fantastic standalone movie
To me the first Godzilla and Mothra movie along with the first Rodan movie are the best monster movies Toho has made.
Fantastic choices!
This video blindsided me. But its nice to see.
I hope you enjoy it!