Review of Godzilla vs. Hedorah (1971) by Emi K — 22 Aug 2008

The first monster movie since 1954's Gojira to successfully use the genre as a mode for conveying a deep message. This surreal and progressive film deals with the increasing pollution problem and its affect on the planet as Godzilla fights the embodiment of sludge, grime, smoke and all other forms of pollution.

Strange editing and animated interludes make this look more like an independent Sundance entry than a monster flick, which makes it stand above most. But, the final act disregards that approach and turns back into the classic Godzilla film which is fine but a strange turn considering the mood of the rest of the movie.