Book Description
In Bambi vs. Godzilla, David Mamet, the award-winning playwright and screenwriter, gives us an exhilaratingly subversive inside look at Hollywood from the perspective of a filmmaker who has always played the game his own way.
Who really reads the scripts at the film studios? How is a screenplay like a personals ad? Whose opinion matters when revising a screenplay? Why are there so many producers listed in movie credits? And what the hell do those producers do, anyway? Refreshingly unafraid to offend, Mamet provides hilarious, surprising, and bracingly forthright answers to these and other questions about virtually every aspect of filmmaking, from concept to script to screen.
He covers topics ranging from “How Scripts Got So Bad” to the oxymoron of “Manners in Hollywood.” He takes us step-by-step through some of his favorite movie stunts and directorial tricks, and demonstrates that it is craft and crew, not stars and producers, that make great films. He tells us who his favorite actors and what his favorite movies are, who he thinks is the most perfect actor to grace the screen, and who he thinks should never have appeared there.
Demigods and sacred cows of the movie business–beware! But for the rest of us, Mamet speaking truth to Hollywood makes for searingly enjoyable reading.
Customer Reviews:
Vintage Mamet with a twist.......2007-09-09
This is vintage Mamet; sharp, insightful, renegade, taking potshots at sacred cows. Unlike earlier collections like 'Writing in Restaurants' there is a new ingredient running through most pieces- a knifetip of something angry and bitter.
That's made more noticeable by a chapter that starts with a genial, witty quote from 'Richard Weisz'... Richard Weisz being one of Mamet's alter egos. The world -and specifically that world- needs all the Mamet it can get.
War Stories A Plenty.......2007-07-29
As the title suggests, this is not a book that glorifies the movie business. Through stories from the trenches Mamet paints a vivid and realistic picture of what it's like trying to negotiate the turbulent rapids of Hollywood. I was a little afraid of this book at first, because I really thought the author, whom I respect very much, was going to trash the business, that I love so very much. But I was pleasantly surprised that he was able to present a balanced picture. Yes, there are some people that he hates (actors be ware), but you can tell that he has a true love for the business. Mamet also uses his humor to offset some of the more acidic anecdotes. All in all, a good book. A quick read. And his insights are very unique.
Disappointed.......2007-07-24
I love David Mamet's plays. He's an excellent writer. So I was enthusiastic about getting the chance to read his personal views of Hollywood. And while I agree with him that the studio machinery is all about profits and very little about art or craft - when was it ever different? - I was ultimately disappointed by his book. There were times when I just didn't know what he was talking about. I think his writing here is often inaccessible. I may not be the most erudite reader, but Mamet left me cold. I just couldn't get into the style of his writing. I felt distanced rather than drawn in. When I read a book like this, I want to devour it, not pick at its little pieces. You may feel differently, that's fine. The book didn't pull me in the way I'd hoped it would.
David Mamet on the movie business? Please?!.......2007-06-01
This book was so wonderful, I took it out from the library, read it, and then had to buy it. I never do that. It's a book you'll want to read over and over, have other people read (at least certain essays) and refer to the filmography repeatedly. Mamet is so amazingly astute about everything, but particularly about things relating to theater and the movie business. If you are a movie buff at all, read this book.
Great Beach Book.......2007-05-28
A bit of Hollywood background, some insightful comments on current culture, essays of a sort and one can pick up and put down but comforted that it remains there to continue to read. I read it on spring break in the South of France as did two other family members. Three generations enjoyed it on the terrace overlooking the Mediterranean.
Book Description
This year, to mark the fiftieth anniversary of his first appearance on the screen, the original, uncut version of Godzilla was released in American theaters to the delight of Sci-Fi and B-Movie fans everywhere. Ever since Godzilla (or, Gojira, as he is known in Japan) crawled out of his radioactive birthplace to cut a swath of destruction through Tokyo, he has claimed a place alongside King Kong and others in the movie monster pantheon. He is the third most recognizable Japanese celebrity in the United States, and his fan base continues to grow as children today prove his enduring appeal. Now, Bill Tsutsui, a life-long fan and historian, takes a light-hearted look at the big, green, radioactive lizard, revealing how he was born and how he became a megastar. With humorous anecdotes, Godzilla on My Mind explores his lasting cultural impact on the world. This book is sure to be welcomed by pop culture enthusiasts, fans, and historians alike.
Customer Reviews:
A real downer..........2007-03-21
This book ridicules G-fans, stating that the movies were intended as "campfests". Not true. Most of the movies had serious social and political commentary. Ishiro Honda intended all the G-films to have a message. He overuses the word "cheese" Not ALL G-films are cheesy, OK? Shut up, you lame excuse for a G-fan! Don't even borrow this book. I'ts a downer for G-fans.
Godzilla In Our Hearts.......2007-02-02
Godzilla On My Mind is a wonderful celebration of the movies, the myths and the magic of Godzilla. Professor Tsutsui writes with both candor and passion about the "monster" so many of us love, exploring the connection so many fans have made with Godzilla over the years. It is clear that he loves Godzilla, yet he is able to look with a keen mind and critical eyes at the movies themselves, as well as the cultural phenomenon that has swept over the world.
His style is clean and engaging, even when he swims in the "deep waters" of "what it all means". At it's core, "Godzilla" is far more than a man in a rubber suit thrashing about on a set of miniature buildings in a series of "kid's movies". Tsutsui teaches without "preaching" as he explores the cultural differences between what Godzilla "means" in Japan, as well as in America and other nations.
Even if you are a casual fan, you will find much here to enjoy. If you want to learn more about the "king of the monsters" this is the book for you.
Meh, it is alright........2007-01-13
If you are looking for a book that gives a lot of facts, this is not the book for you. Get Steve Ryfle's "Japans Favorite Mon-star", hell, even get "The Godzilla Compendium". Those two books have way more information. But, "Godzilla On My Mind" does have some facts not mentioned in other books. The book itself looks more in depth on Godzilla and Japan at the time. Altogether it is a more personal piece than a haven for facts. As I said, not a book if you are looking for information and reference, but good if you want to learn more about Godzilla's affect on pop culture.
JUST BUY IT.............2006-11-26
This is a really great fun read written by a lifelong fan of THE BIG-G. As a Godzilla fan myself, I find this book to be an insightful overview of not only the films but also of the times when these films were made. Tsutsui covers his subject with style and humor, informative without being academic. This is both a FRIENDLY read and a WELL WRITTEN history of Godzilla and his affect on pop culture then and now. Buy this book. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!!
Feel, understand and explore the love of the Big G..........2005-08-12
...or maybe not. Associate Professor William Tsutsui attempts to detail and explain the alluring popularity of watching a guy in a latex suit tearing through a mock-up of a Japanese metropolis. While he succeeds in the former (relating the history of both the series and the merchandising it spawned) Tsutsui stumbles in the latter. The author himself admits that, as a subject, Godzilla is far too complex (what with being reinvented from bad guy to good guy and every point in between with each new film) to pigeon hole with a quaint, easy to understand theory - which does more to explain Godzilla's enduring popularity over the years, the continents, and differing generations than any critical theory could ever aspire to. Whether adored as a city smashing monster (Gojira, 1954) or dismissed for being a cute n' cuddly Barneylike defender of The World via Japan (Godzilla Versus Gigan, Megalon et al) it can be safe to say that Godzilla will live on for at least another generation, or two. For a fan like me, the book didn't really offer any information about The Big G that I did not already know, but it was nice to read someone with an opinion similar (but quite different) to my own, but some might wonder if a blog turned book is worth investing in. It is better suited for fans to share with non-fans, with the disclaimer "This book attempts to explain just what it is about Godzilla and his movies that I adore so" attached. Recommended for the Kaiju Curious, the fans will be buy it regardless.
Book Description
GODZILLA is... King of the Monsters! Nature's Radioactive Revenge! A Camp Superhero! The Big G!
Bigger, Badder, and more durable than Hollywood's greatest action heroes, Godzilla emerged from the mushroom cloud of an H-bomb test in 1954 to trample Tokyo. More than 40 years later, he reigns as the undisputed king of monsters, with legions of fans spanning several generations and countless international boundaries.
Japan's Favorite Mon-Star is the first complete guide to the Godzilla legend published in North America. It is also the first totally unauthorized Godzilla book to be successfully published (legal challenges from Toho Co. Ltd. have previously snuffed out two others by Fantasma Books in 1996 and Quill Publishing in 1998). This book, the culmination of many years of in-depth research, includes production details on all 22 Godzilla movies produced by Toho in Japan between 1954 and 1995, plus several "unmade" features, plus the 1998 big-budget U.S. Godzilla remake by the makers of INDEPENDENCE DAY. It dispels the myths and illuminates the mysteries of Japan's enigmatic mon-star, and is loaded with background information, trivia, and exclusive interviews with the people who created Godzilla - then and now. Interviewees and personal profiles include special effects director Teruyoshi Nakano, Godzilla suit actor Haruo Nakajima, composer Akira Ifukube and actors Yoshio Tsuchiya (MONSTER ZERO, DESTROY ALL MONSTERS) and Robert Dunham (MOTHRA, GODZILLA VS. MEGALON). With over 300 fact-filled pages and over 94 photos and illustrations, JAPAN'S FAVORITE MON-STAR is the biggest and best Godzilla book available, and the only one you'll need. 94 b&w illustrations
Customer Reviews:
Everything you don't need to know about Godzilla!.......2004-01-28
Japan's Favorite Mon-star: The Unauthorized Biograhy of "The Big G" is probably the best information of Godzilla movies from movie 1 to 22 (Godzilla through Godzilla vs. Destroyer and the stupid fake one, not counting as a series number). This book is chock-full of it, from movie credits to production to unused concepts to everything! Unfortunately, this book loses two stars. Why? Because Steve Ryfle, the author, seems like he just mildly likes the Godzilla series. I mean, he only gives 5 stars to the first one (even though I agree with his opinion, but movies such as Destroy All Monsters, Godzilla vs. King Ghidorah, Godzilla vs. Destroyer get 5 from me), and the average rating for all the others is about 2 to 3 and a half stars. He's really mean to the series, and it's hard to believe he's a "fan" (makes quotation signs with fingers). Anyway, at least the book's informative. Goes good with The Official Godzilla Compendium.
Pretty much required reading for Godzilla fans........2002-09-13
Whether you agree with Steve Ryfle's criticism of the the later and contemporary Godzilla movies or not (and I do not not, with the exception of the American version, I rate no Godzilla movie lower than three stars), his book remains a fairly exhaustive look at the legendary monster and its decades long film franchise. Just about any question you may have about the still running series will probably be answered in these pages. Sadly legal hassles (i.e. it being unauthorized) prevented more photos of the star attraction appearing in the book, but that it is a pretty nitpicking quibble for such a book as this. If you want cool pictures of The Big "G", then buy the Cerasini/Leeds Companion. If you want an affectionate, yet candidly unvarnished, look that people who created and/or appeared in so many wonderfully entertaining movies, then get this. You will not be disappointed. I can only give it my highest recommendation.
An excellent history of the all-time greatest movie monster........2002-08-11
Steve Ryfle weaves a heck of a book here. It goes without saying that Godzilla fans will love this, but I'll say it anyway: Godzilla fans will love this. But that's not all. Film fans will like this as well, for it offers an intriguing look behind the scenes of Japanese cinema. And if you've ever been curious about "just who DID create Godzilla," then you should check out this book.
Ryfle reviews twenty-two Japanese Godzilla films (the few most recent, beginning with Godzilla 2000, not included), as well as the American abomination. He also gives in-depth profiles of writers, actors, and others who worked on the movies, and gives looks at unmade films (such as Godzilla vs. Frankenstein) and special projects (such as the two Godzilla episodes of Mystery Science Theater 3000).
A final ironic note: This book was originally held up by studio lawyers, which only gave Ryfle time to review the American monstrosity as well and add his savaging of it into the final product.
This book is recommended.
Great Information, Yet Highly Critical.......2001-11-12
Being a long-time Godzilla fan, I was extremely excited that such an information filled book about Godzilla was finally available to his US fans. And although this book is jam-packed with information, the author (Steve Ryfle) is so incredibly critical towards te Godzilla series that it's hard to believe he considers himself a G-fan at all. His attitude goes something like "The first eight Godzilla movies are great, but anything and everything that comes after that (...)". He doesn't even give anything after that a chance! It's like he makes up his mind about a new movie before he even sees it. After "Son of Godzilla", the highest review you'll find has just 3 and a half stars. And that's rare to find a review that high! he definetely favors old movies. However, despite all the critical opinions and Godzilla-slamming, the book is the BEST source for Godzilla behind-the-scenes information out there. While the Official Godzilla Compendium was flimsy, it had great pictures and monster-stats. If you can get past the negativity in this book, it really is the best source for Godzilla information you can find. So, my final opinion is: Buy this book for the information, and get "The Official Compendium" for the pictures and monster stats.
Big book for a big monster.......2001-07-25
Despite a shortage of photos (quite understandable, given this book's "unauthorized" status), JAPAN'S FAVORITE MON-STAR is a superb package, with a wealth of behind-the-scenes and other related facts on each of the Godzilla films (up to 1999). With numerous interviews with the filmmakers, actors, and even American distributors, the amount of information in this volume is prodigious yet consistently entertaining. The reviews reflect the author's heartfelt, fannish connection to G films, and help lighten the overall tone of the book with their informal and highly personal sentiments. Godzilla fans will probably find much to agree--and disagree--with here; that said, I found that in most cases the author and I were on the same wavelength in our views of the Godzilla films. Whether this is the definitive volume on the Godzilla series is debatable, but after JAPAN'S FAVORITE MON-STAR, one would be hard-pressed to publish a book on the subject that isn't superfluous.
Book Description
Godzilla first rampaged across Japan's silver screen in 1954. Not to be contained, the "King of the Monsters" soon strode across the Pacific, creating mayhem in America's theaters from 1956 onward. In his wake were left shattered cities, ardent fans ... and a mighty mountain of collectibles. This book captures the wide range of Godzilla collectibles in comprehensive listings and over 570 color photographs. The vast array of collectibles detailed and displayed include everything from animation cels, badges, and banks to posters, toys, and trading cards. Every item in this book has been organized into easily identified categories for quick reference. Also included in the text are collecting tips, a history of Godzilla toys, a collector's market overview complete with the listings of the top manufacturers of Godzilla collectibles, and "top ten lists" of Godzilla toys, posters, and vinyl figures. Completing this all-encompassing work are values for the many collectible lines listed.
Customer Reviews:
An Unauthorised Guide to Godzilla Collectibles.......2002-01-27
A comprehensive masterpiece of full Godzilla's merchanise on toys, posters, models etc. which is definitely a 'must-have guide' for true collectors in search of complete amazing collection. Very well recommended for all ages and good investment with value in money. Do not miss it or you are not complete Gozdilla's fan yet.....
A Must for all Godzilla Fans........2000-02-08
I am most impressed with this book. As a rookie Godzilla collector, it was fascinating to see the huge selection of merchandise that has been available. Living in the UK, it has been near impossible (until the internet came along) to obtain Godzilla merchandise and now I know what a task is ahead of me! Even if I cannot own the items, at least this book will provide me with a good photographic record. I was especially interested in the section devoted to film posters - it is interesting and hilarious seeing the variations between different country's versions. The book is lilterally packed with colour photos - in fact the only thing which lets it down is the lack of background text/information on the merchandise. I was glad to see no mention of the American/Tristar Godzilla (1998) apart from a entry in the film poster listing -the book was probably compiled just a little too early for this but I feel that it would have no place in the Japanese Godzilla World.
Some nice pictures of stuff you will never own..........2000-01-02
Invaluable book for collectors and dealers alike. Clear pics on some of the really rare and expensive items. The only problem is that many of the prices are WAY too low for some of the toys, but when the author is one of the largest buyers and sellers of Godzilla toys, you have to expect that.
A great book for Godzilla or toy collector fans.......1999-07-26
Spend hours just looking through all the godzilla items in the last 30 to 40 years. Anyone who is a collector or a true godzilla fan, this book is a must!!!!
WOW! Simply the best Godzilla collectibles book there is!.......1998-12-01
If you like Godzilla, this is the book for you. Even if you have just a passing fancy into the world of collectibles, you will be amazed at how in depth and complete this volume is. Covers thousands of items. I looked at it for hours after getting it.
Book Description
Godzilla is sad because everyone on Monster Island is afraid of him. He goes off to live alone on a deserted island, then one day, he senses trouble back on Monster Island. He returns to find that Anguirus, one of the monsters, has fallen into a volcano pit. Using his long tail, Godzilla saves Anguirus, and his act of kindness dispels the fears of the other monsters. Happily, Godzilla finally finds a home.
Customer Reviews:
Godilla is cute.......2003-03-24
Even if you're not a Godzilla fan, this book is adorable. All the monsters on Monster Island like to play together, but poor Godzilla is lonesome because the smaller monsters are afraid of him. So he swims away to make new friends, but everywhere he goes, people get upset and shoot missiles at him. Poor Godzilla! The story has a happy ending, though, which is important. After all, we all want Godzilla to be happy, don't we?
The best starting point for young Godzilla fans........1998-11-21
This is exactly how I saw Godzilla when I was young, and I still see him that way today: a misunderstood being without a kindred spirit in the world. If any child wants to take an interest in Godzilla, this is the book to start with. Not only does it depict some of the greatest monsters of the movies, like Angilas, Gigan, Rodan, and Varan, but it also contains a powerful message that is conveyed in a way that all children should understand. Plus, you and your child can enjoy the book together with its stunning illustrations by one of the greatest Godzilla artists of all time-- Bob Eggleton. A definite must-have for fans and parents. Its companion companion book, Godzilla Likes to roar, should not be passed up, either.
Book Description
Beginning with his birth in the heart of a nuclear explosion in the 1954 film Godzilla: King of the Monsters, The Official Godzilla Compendium has everything you ever wanted to know about the King of the Monsters. Published in cooperation with Toho, the Japanese studio that produced Godzilla's first 22 films, it takes an intimate peek behind the cameras and a nostalgic look at all of his movies. It even compares all of Godzilla's giant monster friends and foes by height, weight, wins and losses! Packed with photos and illustrations, movie summaries, and entertaining essays that cover all aspects of the last 40 years of Godzilla, this is the only official compendium published in America.
Written by J. D. Lees, editor and publisher of G-Fan magazine, and Marc Cerasini, a New York Times best-selling author of nonfiction.
Customer Reviews:
Great Eye CAndy, Little Information.......2006-05-11
This book is supposed to be a complete guide to the Toho Godzilla universe, but it hardly goes into enough depth to satisfy more serious fans. The writing style implicates that it was obviously written for younger fans. I myself got it as a present at a very young age (I think I was seven) and this book was my bible. The movie guides are somewhat indepth, each having a synopsis and some afterthoughts by the author. The afterthoughts cover the special effects and actors as well as short, always positive reviews. There are some other various features in the book, adn then in the back there is probably the greatest reason for one to buy this book: a complete guide to the monsters in each movie, with specific facts about their size and appearances with interesting illustrations. Pretty good eye candy, but the rest of the book is a little bland. Kids will love it.
A wonderful resource for fans of the Big G........2006-03-15
For some reason I can't understand, I've always enjoyed Godzilla movies because there was just something about a giant lizard fighting other large monsters as well as thwarting man in his effort to destroy what they can not control. I got this book because what amazed me was that it gave information on all of the Godzilla movies (at the time) which also included those that had never been released in the USA. It also detailed how the Godzilla suit has evolved through the years as well as a few articles of how you can use Godzilla as a parenting model, much to shaking head of my wife-to-be at the thought of having our future children behaving....improving their behavior on how to act like monsters.
You're right this time, it's the big fellow: the lizard king.......2004-05-28
First off, this book is appreciating at a better clip than the stock market: I picked up my copy four years ago for what I thought was the catastrophic sum of $35.00. How many of your investments have more than doubled in value over the last four years?
But that is the WORST reason to buy this book! Buy it because it is possibly the very best source book on Godzilla. Buy it because it's well put together, well-made, well-written and lavishly illustrated. Buy it because, well, because it's about Godzilla.
Sure, if you're reading this you probably ought, by general opinion, to have outgrown any childish fascination or affection for a guy in a rubber suit stomping a cardboard Tokyo. You probably shouldn't speed on the highway, ride fast motorcycles or make rude gestures at the television news people either and stop eating raviolis out of the can, would 'ya???
It's not the inner child or any of that psycho-nonsense that motivates you to a) keep reading this even if you know it's nuts and b) keep faith with the Maximum Lizard, his films, books and exploits. It's the 'enduring' child: the continuing ability to be delighted, to wonder and, quite frankly, enjoy watching major urban areas get trashed by something wilder than your average daydream but not nearly as scary as reality.
Unless your investments have been paying off nicely or you've been selling oil to the government, you might want to put this on your wish list and make nice with firends and relatives. Godzilla approves of social harmony in a sort of offhand, one-more-thing-to-stomp way.
The best informative book you can buy on Godzilla in the U.S.......2004-02-20
The compendium is absolutely THE reference book for fans in the U.S.! Although with the internet, many of us can access other books about Godzilla. But this one is one of the best out there on Godzilla! I must have for any fan of the series!
A feast for the eyes........2003-01-14
This official compendium of Godzilla adoration offers nothing that any serious or longtime fan of The Big G doesn't already know, but it DOES offer a huge amount of stills - something the superior unauthorized tomes do not. Although weakened by a lack of detail (not mentioned are the prickly facts of Toho's shrinking budgets, the overuse of stock footage, etc.) and glowing reviews of every single movie in the series without bothering to mention their individual shortcomings (although it is nice to read commentary on Godzilla versus Megalon that doesn't grind the doofy flick into the dirt) this book would be a welcome addition in any true fan's library, just based on the stills and artwork alone. Highly recommended.
Average customer rating:
- Good and bad together: but worth it.
- Marvel Foresight!
- Something big is coming your way, Essential fans!
- Godzilla from the House of Ideas
- A worthy comic series of the king of the monsters himself done by none other then the great marvel comics
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Essential Godzilla (Marvel Essentials)
Doug Moench
Manufacturer: Marvel Comics
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ASIN: 0785121536 |
Product Description
You have your fear, which might become reality. And you have Godzilla, which IS reality. From Godzilla, King of the Monsters (1956)
And what a reality it was! For two years, Japans greatest export was one of Marvels biggest stars, and the King of the Monsters upheld his title against some of the best and worst the House of Ideas had to offer including the Fantastic Four, the Avengers, and Nick Fury and the Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.! Godzilla shrinks, goes West, travels through time and hosts one of Spider-Mans most gratuitous guest-shots ever! Plus: aliens, mutants, mad Scientists and almost a dozen MORE giant monsters! Its so big, you cant miss it! Collects GODZILLA #1-24.
Customer Reviews:
Good and bad together: but worth it........2007-02-08
The bad points first: Black and white printed on cheap news print. But that is how they pobably make this so affordable. But hey man, This is the seventies, should definately be in color.
Good points: At least this volume allowed me to read the issues ive not been able to fingd in comics shops.
Fans who dont like the way Godzilla looks here: Godzillas design for this comic was modeled on the Aurora model kit, which was in turn modeled on the Godzilla suit from KING KONG vs Godzillla. That particular suit was probably the most dinosaur like (especially the head )version seen in the films and is distictly different from the way he appeard in all the other films. So its somewhat diferent from what many fans are used to. The model kit they used to make the drawings from was probably painted green with red eyes. In some of the comic book art
there is an attempt to create a forced perspective to exagerate G's size. But it doesnt work and he just ends up looking weird.
The Godzilla cartoon from around the same time used the same Aurora design, but they had painted the eys the right way. (HIs eyes are humanoid looking, usually, with redish brown pupils.
For those unfamiliar with this incarnation of Godzilla or this version of The Marvel Universe for that matter,
It shold be noted that this comic was released during what is known by fans as the "Second Monster craze".
the first was in the 1950-sixties, The second was fom mid 70s to about 1980 when slashers became the rage.
The huge theatrical release of movies like Godzilla vs. Megalon and Inframan were a big part of this. But the era is mostly owed to the release of many high quality monster toys. A lot of Universal monster inspired Action figures. The import of weird Japanese toys like micronauts and Shogun warriors (also marvel comics)
and Godzilla Toys and games fro mattel. Mattels Shogun Warrior GODZILLA toy as the holy grail or at least the pinacle of this era. The aurora monster kits, including Godzilla, were rereleased in glow in the dark versions at this time. Glow in the dark Monster postrs were prizes in Super Sugar Crisp cereal boxes. And there was even a Godzilla record containing two audio adventures.
Marvel Foresight!.......2006-08-28
Being a Daikaijuologist (Studies Giant mysterious beasts) I remembered this series of comics fondly as a boy but did not have them all, Now I do. Something I found interesting, TOHO (the company resonsible for the Godzilla Movies) didn't reveal that Big-G was a vegitarian until 1993, But Marvel Knew he was back in 78! (See the cowboy issues in the book) all trivia aside though, even a Non-Comic reading Godzilla fan will enjoy this Book! It's fun to watch the Shodai (Original)Dark,evil, mean, Godzilla thrust into the weird & almost funny 70's godzilla situations! Goofy aliens, time travel, saving kids what have you. Buy it, Love it! that fact that it's black & white? who cares? So were the first TWO Movies!
Something big is coming your way, Essential fans!.......2006-05-15
Marvel has done a number of comic series of independently licensed characters in the past, like Doctor Who; Rom the Spaceknight; and Doc Savage, Man of Bronze. Last year, the brass at Marvel set out to court many of these other companies and get their permission to reprint their licensed material, in anticipation of the large quantity of Essentials and Masterworks for 2006 that they wanted. The only taker was Japan's Toho Studios, hence the arrival of the Essential Godzilla, King of Monsters. I wasn't really into Godzilla or the "kaiju" scene (the last Godzilla movie I saw had a guy and two robots in the lower right-hand corner making fun of it) but I just had to witness the fruits of Marvel's labor. That's why the Terror of Tokyo recently stomped onto my bookshelf, standing and roaring defiantly right between Ghost Rider and Howard the Duck.
The 1977-79 twenty-four issue series allowed the big G to cut a swath of destruction across America's fruited plains, just as his fans have always wanted. The saga begins with `Zilla's emergence after a two decade hiatus off the coast of Alaska. He then picks his teeth with the Space Needle in Seattle before causing some tremors in San Fran. He becomes the ultimate high roller in Vegas, wades into the Grand Canyon, flattens Salt Lake City, and even draws the ire of cattle rustlers in the Great Plains. There's an entire issue devoted to burly cowpokes trying to lasso and corral Godzilla (A deliberate symbol of the tension between two different national cultures: possibly. Hysterical: yes). Finally, our U.S tour via gigantic lizard concludes in the Marvel Universe's most happenin' hot spot, New York City. Like I said, I wasn't really a fan, but if wanting Godzilla to lay waste to the Big Apple is wrong, then perhaps I don't want to be right.
One thing I really must mention to the true Godzillophiles out there is that Toho always licensed each of their creations separately, and Marvel only footed the bill for the big Kahuna. That means no Mothra, no Rodan, no ... uh, the three-headed one, King Gur-something; so the House of Ideas came up with some new giant monsters. Firstly, a bat-dragon and a huge centipede are among the creatures unleashed from a crazed scientist's island lair (there's always some of those scattered around comic books and Bond movies). An 80-foot tall shaggy yeti opposes Godzilla in Arizona, and then two warring alien races with a predilection toward sicking gargantuan beasts on each other stop by (What are the odds?). My favorite of the new colossi is Red Ronin, a towering robot piloted by a twelve-year old boy (no other image defines "Japan" more to me than that).
Of course, this is an in-continuity Marvel title, so naturally plenty of superheroes are called in to try their luck against the big G. The Champions are there to defend `Frisco, and the Fantastic Four banish our title character to the stone age where he runs into the little-known Kirby creation called the Devil Dinosaur (seems like a good fit). Also, Godzilla learns if size really does matter when he's shrunk down to six inches, courtesy of the Avenger Yellowjacket's "Pym particles". Then Pym joins the rest of his fellow assemblers for one final stand against a restored King of the Monsters in Manhattan. But his primary pursuers are from SHIELD and Nick Fury's second-in-command, Timothy "Dum Dum" Dugan (his name comes from the slang for hollow-point bullets, by the way). Even if you're not as much of a Marvelite as I, you have to admit that you'd rather see Godzilla face any of these guys than Matthew Broderick and Tea Leoni, right?
In the end, what we have here is a campy, deliciously fun comic book caper and also the first Essential that's a real collector's item. The entire series is penned by Doug Moench, esteemed creator of Moon Knight, and almost all of it is penciled by long-time Incredible Hulk artist Herb Trimpe (What can I say? The man knows how to draw huge green guys!). Doug and Herb set out to make a product that would please both Marvel readers and monster movie fans, and in my opinion they clearly succeeded. They did a fantastic job in identifying Godzilla not as the unholy demonic force that he appears to be, but as a simple creature that was accidentally thrust into a world that's too small for him (and at one point that simple creature decapitates a foe with its own tail. #$%&ing awesome!). This is among the most enjoyable Essentials I've ever read, and if you want a copy of your own, my advice is to get one ASAP because this may be the only printing. Sure, it may cost slightly more than your average Essential, but if you can afford five modern comic magazines, you can afford this.
Before I sign off, I'd like to ask you all something. How many of you ever heard of Rom the Spaceknight or Doc Savage before you read my introduction? Probably not too many, eh? It's a shame there isn't anything out there to generate more interest in those long forgotten franchises, like say, I don't know, maybe a collection of their previous comic appearances gathered in one inexpensive volume. Yep, what a shame.
Godzilla from the House of Ideas.......2006-04-28
This is a collection of the Marvel Comics imprint of Godzilla comics. It is in their "essential" line, so expect a great volume of story and art at an affordable price. One caveat, the interiors are all black and white. The lack of color is jarring at first, but once you've read a bit you will get used to it.
The material is imaginative as it is great fun to have Godzilla come play in the Marvel sandbox. There are numerous guest appearances from various Marvel stalwarts as diverse as the Fantastic Four to Devil Dinosaur.
Godzilla purists will be put off by Godzilla's appearance (he is much more tyranosaur-like than the classic Godzilla)but there is no mistaking Godzilla.There are lots of guest-spots from Marvel Comics characters, but none from Godzilla's rogue's gallery (we all love Monster Zero, mecha-Godzilla, and Mothra).
Make no mistake though that this a fun read, particularly if you are a Godzilla fan and a Marvel-Zombie!
A worthy comic series of the king of the monsters himself done by none other then the great marvel comics.......2006-04-14
I must say, marvel did an excellent jop of showing godzilla. godzilla proves himself no matter the size,place,time,or opponent, he is still the king of the monsters. Even when he was shrank down the size of a rat, a rat was still no match for him. When he grows to human size, he meets up with his friend Rob, who thinks that godzilla should not be killed, and as rob gets godzilla some clothes to disguise him (its funny to see godzilla in a hat and a trench coat) two street guys try to mug both of them. Needless to say, godzilla does not take too kindly to threats and as strongbad would put it, "BURNATED". Anyways, any kaiju fan or marvel comics fan should check this out as he fights plenty of marvel classics (including the fantastic four,thor,ironman,iceman,and others.)
Book Description
In this gentler Godzilla monster tale, Godzilla and his monster friends find a strange-looking egg on Monster Island. Knowing instinctively that the egg is important, Godzilla protects it from Gigan and Mecha-Godzilla's vicious attacks. The egg turns out to be a cocoon, and when it opens, it releases beautiful Mothra--the newest monster on Monster Island!
Customer Reviews:
A great story with good pictures.......1999-06-16
Godzilla and Anguirus discover a strange white ball, which is what the monsters call it. In reality it is a giant cocoon! Mechagodzilla comes to get it! Godzilla defends it. I like it because of the plot and pictures. Godzilla looks ok--although his eyes seem too big.
Good.......1998-03-20
good story but bit more descriptevive battle with pictures of it that caught more of the moment
Book Description
This sophisticated sci-fi thriller is set in the year 2001. A team of young science students makes an eerie discovery. Miles below the surface of the South Pole, the Ancient Ones, a race of crystalline beings, have awakened after a million years, horrified to find "their" world infected by a plague of humans. To eliminate humanity, the Ancient Ones create an army of cybernetic monsters who lay waste to South America, China, and Russia before descending upon Japan to do battle with Godzilla. The young scientists in Antarctica and Godzilla, King of the Monsters, are humanity's last line of defense against the giant monster army of the Ancient Ones. Nonstop action and thrilling battles will keep young adult readers glued to the page!
Customer Reviews:
a slight dissapointment.......2005-08-05
this book was slightly dissapointing. for starters, there were too few monster battles. another thing was the ending. they should not have left godzilla to be buried alive! however i did enoy this book
Great for G lovers.......2002-12-03
I loved it. It included some great monsters like Gigan, Megalon, Hedorah, and Biollante. I do like seeing Megalon and Gigan in serious roles because the old films made them to be mindless space monsters. I recommend it to any and all.
Not quite finished.......2002-02-11
When I first started reading this book I could'nt stop , But before I could finish my dog tore it to shreds , so for over a year I've been reading online summaries of the book to make this review.
Godawful.......2000-10-19
I am a MAJOR Godzilla fan, so ofcourse when i saw this book ibought it. Ha! Marc Cerasini claims to be a big Godzilla fan, yet he is ruining the whole series with his horrible novels. First MAJOR mistake is his is mixing the Monster series with the Hensi series. Are we to believe that Megalon, the goofiest of the monster (not including Gabbera cause he was make believe in a childs dream) is in the same story as Biollante and Battra? I mean your mixing serious Godzilla with the goofy 70's Godzilla. If you were to take Biollante and Battra out mabey, MABEY this book might actully be worthy of having the title of Godzilla on the cover. Infact the cover is the only highlight of the book. I dont like how the new wave of Godzilla books are totaly destroying the Godzilla Series its self. I own ALOT of imported godzilla toys and posters, but ill never buy these American books agian. Shame on you Marc Cerasini. Dont buy this book if your a serious hardcore Godzilla Fan!
Godzilla returns to save the world and this book (almost)........2000-03-25
This sequel picks up after Godzilla 2000 ends (appropiately enough). There are plenty of in-joke references to Emmerich and Devlin's Independence Day and their own Godzilla film's add compaign. There are also references to other classic SF flicks, notably John Carpenter's superlative version of The Thing, and H.P. Lovecraft's Cthulthu Mythos stories. Sadly the humans eclipse some of the monster action, so this feels kind of slow mving. Kaiju classic creatures Megalon and Hedorah (aka The Smog Monster) feel tacked on rather than integral parts of the main plot. But the ending is nothing short of incredible and leaves the reader wanting more. If only the monsters had been better handled, this would have garnered five stars. Recommended.
Book Description
The rhyming story follows a day in the life of Godzilla in his Monster Island home. Godzilla roars when he's hungry, when he wants to play with his monster friends, and when he's tired. But eventually, even monsters have to go to sleep! This is a gentle monster "good night" tale for the youngest Godzilla fans.
Customer Reviews:
A day in the life of Godzilla, kiddie style........2002-12-10
A nice poem of playing, eating, and sleeping giant monsters on Monster Island with some truly beautiful Eggleton drawings of the classic Toho beasts for both young and old to marvel over. A great bedtime story and a personal favorite in our house. Highest recommendation.
Too Cool For Words!!!!.......1998-07-30
Being adopted from Russia I wasn't familiar with Godzilla. I really enjoyed this book and since have seen the original Godzilla movie. I wish the author would write some more about Godzilla, maybe "Godzilla visits Russia" or "Godzilla was an orphan". Thanks for a great story.
OG Godzilla!.......1998-07-18
Great book with fantastic Art for og Godzilla fans and their kids! Its hard to find kids books about anything actually cool... who cares about some lousy kid saying goodnight to the moon? I wish that stinking bunny WOULD run away I'm so tired of that book! Now Godzilla, he's worth reading about! Check out the whole "Pictureback" Godzilla series, pure fun. Babies to readers... a fantastic transition book.
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