“A marvelous mix of science fiction, monster movie and adventure fantasy filled with colorful characters and an unmistakable socio-political subtext.” — Sean Axmaker
Mothra (Ishiro Honda,1961, 101 min, Japan, Japanese w/ English subtitles, Color, 35mm)
An expedition to an irradiated island encounters a ‘primitive’ native culture. When one sensationalist entrepreneur tries to exploit the islanders by kidnapping two miniature singing priestesses, their ancient deity arises in retaliation and wreaks havoc on Tokyo. Directed by Ishiro Honda (of Godzilla fame), Toho’s sci-fi fantasy Mothra (Mosura), introduces the titular character who would become Toho’s second most popular kaiju (giant monster) after Godzilla, appearing in eleven Godzilla films and her own trilogy in the 1990s.
— Q&A to follow with leading Godzilla scholar Bill Tsutsui (Ottawa University).
Screen/Society screenings are free and open to the public. (COVID-19 Info)
