Happy Godzilla Day 2025!
November 3rd is celebrated as Godzilla Day because it’s the date the original Godzilla (Gojira) movie premiered in Japan back in 1954. Directed by Ishirō Honda and produced by Toho Studios, the film introduced the world to the legendary monster that became a symbol of both destruction and resilience. Since then, fans and studios have marked the day with screenings, events, and new releases to honor Godzilla’s lasting impact on film and pop culture. So, here is a review of one of the best films in the franchise!
Godzilla vs. Biollante (1989) was directed by Kazuki Ōmori. It’s the 17th film in the overall Godzilla franchise and the 2nd film in the Heisei era (following The Return of Godzilla from 1984). The film introduced new special effects innovations for the series, including the first use of animatronics and elaborate puppet work to bring Biollante to life, making it one of the most ambitious Godzilla productions of its time. Very fascinating and wonderful work done here in this film.
The plot goes as follows. Japan is still healing from Godzilla’s last attack, and scientists are trying to find a way to use his powerful cells for good. One geneticist, grieving the loss of his daughter, combines her DNA with Godzilla’s and a rose, creating a new life form called Biollante. What begins as a heartfelt experiment turns into a nightmare when Biollante grows into a massive, plant-like monster. Meanwhile, Godzilla awakens once again, drawn to his genetic counterpart, setting the stage for a dramatic showdown between two creations born from humanity’s ambition and grief.
One of the greatest strengths of Godzilla vs. Biollante lies in its bold and original monster concept. Rather than creating another standard kaiju, the filmmakers introduced Biollante — a haunting fusion of Godzilla’s DNA, a rose, and the soul of a human girl. This unique origin gives Biollante a tragic, almost poetic quality that sets her apart from other monsters in the series. She’s not driven by malice or conquest, but by pain and confusion, embodying both the beauty and horror of nature twisted by human hands. Her design reflects this duality perfectly: a massive, vine-covered creature with a gaping, tooth-filled maw that’s both grotesque and mesmerizing. Through Biollante, the film explores themes of grief, creation, and the unnatural merging of life forms, giving the monster a depth and emotional resonance rarely seen in the genre.
The visuals and effects in Godzilla vs. Biollante are some of the best in the series. The movie uses dark lighting, smoke, and water to create a moody and realistic look, especially during the nighttime battle scenes. Biollante herself is an incredible creation, brought to life through detailed practical effects that make her seem both beautiful and terrifying. The camera work and miniature sets add to the sense of scale, making the monsters feel truly massive and alive.
Overall, Godzilla vs. Biollante stands out because it combines science fiction, emotion, and artistry in a way few other Godzilla films do. It tells a story that is both tragic and exciting, showing how human ambition and loss can create something powerful and dangerous. The film’s unique monster, deep themes, and impressive visuals make it one of the most memorable and meaningful entries in the entire series.
Again, Happy Godzilla day!
