PG-1998

2024

Movies and TV

Kaiju are giant monsters, a staple of Japanese science fiction cinema and television. The word "kaiju" itself translates to "strange beast" in Japanese. The genre gained international popularity with the 1954 film Godzilla, directed by Ishirō Honda. Godzilla, a giant mutated lizard, became the archetype for the kaiju genre.

Beyond Godzilla, other famous kaiju include Mothra, a giant moth; Rodan, a massive pterosaur; and King Ghidorah, a three-headed golden dragon. These monsters often embody fears of nuclear technology, environmental destruction, or natural disasters. Their stories typically involve the kaiju attacking cities and engaging in battles with military forces or other kaiju.

The kaiju genre has expanded globally, influencing films like Pacific Rim and inspiring numerous comics, video games, and other forms of media. While often portrayed as destructive forces, some kaiju are depicted as protectors of humanity or the Earth.