The final film in A Roaring 70th: Godzilla Film Season is one of the most peculiar of the whole Godzillafranchise, dividing opinion at the time of its release and beyond.  

 The alien life form Hedorah (its name derived from the Japanese word hedoro, meaning ‘sludge’) arrives on Earth and steadily grows by feeding on industrial waste, climbing from the sea onto land and then into the sky. Wherever it goes thousands die from its toxic mist, until Godzilla appears to fight the slimy monster. 

 Director Banno Yoshimitsu took inspiration for Godzilla vs Hedorah from environmentally-conscious films released in the 1950s and 1960s, at a time when pollution in Japan had reached crisis levels following the country’s rapid post-war economic growth. To bring Banno’s creation Hedorah to life on screen an enormous suit was fashioned and covered in multiple layers of paint and glitter to give its slimy appearance.  

 Despite its dark imagery, mass death and message about the consequences of uncontrolled environmental exploitation, Godzilla vs Hedorah remains humourous and even goofy. It includes an animated sequence, scenes of drug-induced hallucinations, others where human bodies dissolve, and (most controversial of all) Godzilla achieving flight using its own heat-ray. Received very negatively by many at the time of release, Godzilla vs Hedorah has gone on to achieve cult status for its daring blend of ecological horror, psychedelia and monster antics.  

*Please note that this movie is rated PGand is therefore not considered suitable for an audience younger than 8 years old unaccompanied

 The screenings are in Japanese with English subtitles. Duration: approx. 85 mins

Guests who are booked to attend the screening can also enjoy 10% off drinks at The Stand on their way in.

*Please note that filming and / or photography may take place at this event. Photos and footage of the event may then be used to promote Japan House London, helping more people to discover what we offer. If you have any concerns, please contact us online or contact a member of the team on site.

Booking opens on 22 November at 10:00

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