Head of Godzilla Doll at Shinjuku District in Tokyo in Japan

Celebrating Godzilla: 70 Years of the Iconic King of the Monsters

Free Talk Event

September 25 – 26, 2024

Godzilla has captured the hearts and minds of people all over the world for 70 years. Whether you’re an avid filmgoer or have never seen a Godzilla film in your life, there is a significant chance that you have heard of Godzilla and recognise what Godzilla looks like. Maybe you even use Godzilla’s distinguished roar as your ringtone. In addition to the filmic image, Godzilla’s countenance has graced cartoons, toys, hotels, advertisements and other elements of popular culture, while also serving as the source material for countless parodies. How could the popularity of one monster continue unabated for seven decades?

Join us as we ponder answers to this question across three engaging presentations spanning our two-day celebration of the King of the Monsters. On Day 1, Jason Jones will conduct a retrospective on Godzilla, exploring some of the key moments in Godzilla film and popular culture history as they serve as a reflection of the cultural zeitgeist. Day 1 will also feature a Godzilla quiz with a special guest, Godzilla comic book creator, Louie Joyce. Onsite attendees can test their Godzilla knowledge and win Godzilla-related prizes.

On Day 2, Simon Avenell will guide us through an exploration of the original Gojira (1954) film in its functioning as a time capsule for Japan’s experience in the post-war era. Then, also on Day 2, Masafumi Monden will bring us back to the present day, exploring Godzilla’s appeal and cultural significance through two recent renditions: Shin Godzilla (2016) and Godzilla Minus One (2023). It will be a roaring good time!