Considering Godzilla 1954 and 1985: Should You Watch Them with or without Raymond Burr?

Let's delve into the classic Godzilla films, particularly focusing on the 1954 original and its 1985 American reimagining. These iconic movies are available for viewing on various platforms, with the 1985 version streaming on this website. For a long time, when it came to Godzilla's famous 1984 return, I was only familiar with the Americanized, box office-failure version known as The thing that spawned a thousand monsters, an English dub of the original Japanese film Godzilla, King of the Monsters!

Godzilla 1954: The Original Japanese Marvel

The original 1954 film, Godzilla, King of the Monsters!, sets the stage for a story filled with chilling terror. Despite Godzilla's rubber suit look not being perfect in every scene, the movie managed to captivate audiences. The creature was only shown in two scenes at night, which contributed to a more intense and ominous atmosphere. This approach contrasts with the old feeling where monsters appeared almost daily, instead instilling a sense of real danger. The graphics used for Godzilla's death-ray were particularly impressive, as they were as realistic as the effects in late 1950s films like Mystery of the Suns.

The Music Score: A Masterpiece

One of the standout elements of the 1954 version is its haunting score by Reijiro Koroku. The soundtrack is a collection of pieces that evoke all emotions: horror, tranquility, love, and even sadness. The ending theme is particularly poignant, making it heart-wrenching even for non-Godzilla fans. This music is arguably the best in any Godzilla film to date, setting the tone for the franchise and providing a surreal and emotional atmosphere throughout the movie.

Godzilla 1985: The Americanized Retelling

The 1985 American version, titled Godzilla, is a much shorter film designed for a Western audience. It runs about 15-20 minutes shorter than the original and includes significant cuts. The removal of these scenes not only shortens the film but also strips away a lot of the underlying message present in the 1954 version. This message was crucial in establishing the film's tone and impact. Without these elements, the Americanized version fails to deliver the same chilling and intense atmosphere.

Raymond Burr's Impact on the American Version

When it comes to the 1985 American version, the presence of Raymond Burr has been debated. Some viewers argue that his narration and presence add depth to the film. However, others, like myself, feel that the Raymond Burr versions don't add anything to the movies; on the contrary, they remove a lot from the originals. The cut scenes, which often contained important thematic elements, were essential to the original's message and impact. Therefore, the versions with Raymond Burr are recommended for nostalgic value but might not be as impactful for the full Godzilla experience.

Evaluating the Choice: Watching with or Without Raymond Burr

When deciding whether to watch the 1954 or 1985 versions of Godzilla with or without Raymond Burr, consider your personal preferences and the message you hope to experience. For those interested in the full story, original atmosphere, and the haunting score, the 1954 version is highly recommended. However, if you are more interested in the Western adaptation and have fondness for the presence of a charismatic host, the 1985 version with Raymond Burr might be more enjoyable. Both versions provide unique experiences, but the 1954 original offers a more complete and immersive journey into the world of Godzilla.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the choice between watching the 1954 original with an engaging score and the 1985 American version with Raymond Burr comes down to personal preference and the elements you value most. Regardless, both films remain significant milestones in the Godzilla franchise, offering unique and memorable views of the King of Monsters. Explore these classics and experience the terror and wonder that make the Godzilla franchise so enduring and beloved.