Review of Terror of Mechagodzilla (1975) by Carl M — 17 Jun 2013

Picking up immediately where the previous film left off, TERROR OF MECHAGODZILLA follows a mad scientist that has created a monster mind control device so that he may harness the giant beast Titanosaur in a plot for revenge. Dr. Mafune aligns himself with an evil alien race that has rebuilt the mechanical terror Mechagodzilla as well, and together, they set out to destroy all of mankind! TERROR OF MECHAGODZILLA would be the last film in the original series, as well as the last Godzilla picture to be directed by the great Ishiro Honda. With aliens, androids, secret agents, and (of course) giant monsters, TERROR OF MECHAGODZILLA assembles all of the most successful science fiction and fantasy elements together at last, while focusing on the same tragic and multi-layered characters that have defined Honda's career. On top of the excellent costuming and incredible miniature set design that are featured here, the greatest strength in this entry lies in the creative framing and expressive camera work that bring us right into each explosive action scene. Honda uses an array of low and wide angle shots as he pans around the entire set, giving the monster battles a larger look and feel than ever before. Godzilla is restored to an indestructible force of nature as he absolutely obliterates his opponents in a series of vicious attacks. Of the many epic moments contained within the film, Godzilla's first striking appearance against the black, lightening-strewn sky as he is announced by Akira Ifukube's triumphant score remains the most memorable. Unfortunately, poor box office returns would result in Godzilla's unofficial retirement for over a decade, but the unmitigated King of the Monsters would return to wreak havoc in GODZILLA 1985.

-Carl Manes.

I Like Horror Movies.