Godzilla first appeared in Toho’s “Godzilla” (1954), a classic monster film widely regarded as a masterpiece. The work launched a monster movie franchise that continued for over 64 years and more than 30 films. Toho’s line of original movies has continued up to the controversial “Shin Godzilla” (2016). The following year, Toho launched its first animated production, which is currently streaming on Netflix. Godzilla has become a globally recognized icon, finding its way into worldwide pop culture and influencing many creative minds. The character has been adapted via numerous international motion pictures, including TriStar Pictures’ “Godzilla” (1998) directed by Roland Emmerich (“Independence Day”) and Warner Bros. and Legendary’s “Godzilla” (2014) directed by Gareth Edwards (“Rogue One”), re-introducing the character to a new generation and global audience.
Godzilla continues to stomp through popular culture with “Godzilla: King of the Monsters” directed by Michael Dougherty (“Krampus”) to be released in May 2019, and “Godzilla vs Kong” (tentative title) planned for 2020.