So why the big deal about giving us GOJIRA (1956) with subtitles? (1 Viewer)

[Dick]

Hell, Sony's been releasing Godzilla movies in widescreen with Japanese language track and English subtitles. Media Blasters is about to release another four in the same fashion. All are, to my knowledge, from the Toho Studio. So why is it such a big issue that the U.S. be permitted a DVD of the original Godzilla movie from 1956 with English subtitles? Or RODAN, for that matter? Seems to me someone is shooting himself in the foot.

 

[Jeff Jacobson]

What I've read (from other people posting on HTF) is that TOHO doesn't want people in Japan importing a DVD of the original version of GOJIRA from America. That way, they can charge whatever they want in Japan.

I don't know if that is true, but that's what I've read.

 

[Jeff Adkins]

I don't think it's true. They allowed it to be released in Spain with Spanish subtitles a few years ago.

 

[Jim Peavy]

We're talking about the original 1954, Japanese cut here, sans Raymond Burr. It's quite a different film, more "Japanese", dark and moody. For Big-G fans, it's pretty much the Holy Grail, seeing as it's the one that started it all.

 

[MarcoBiscotti]

I wish Criterion could somehow license this film and finally release a definitive remastered version, uncut/edited with both subtitles, original Japanese audio and English language dub tracks.

 

[Ian_H]

They almost did on laser disc. It was announced but TOHO nixed it I believe.

-Ian

 

[Jon Robertson]

There's a R4 version already out with both versions on it - see here.

Alas, I haven't seen any reviews on the quality of it, but it's fairly cheap and there if you want it.

 

[MarcoBiscotti]

EXCELLENT NEWS...

http://www.digitalmonsterisland.com/...t_usatoday.jpg

According to Digital Monster Island, Classic Media and Rialto Pictures have FINALLY agreed to release the original, uncut 1954 Godzilla! It should be coming sometime in 2005!!!

 

[Kevin M]

Who is Digital Monster Island & are they reliable for non-net rumor reporting?

 

[MarcoBiscotti]

From Digital Monster Island:



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Regardless of the above, the article posted is taken directly from a USA Today print so I'd say it's pretty reliable.