Category: Reviews

Synopsis

Following Godzilla's rampage, scientists find his cells scattered across Tokyo, only for Saradian agent SSS9 (Manjot Bedi) to steal them. The cells are delivered to the Saradian Institute of Technology and Science, where scientists hope to create fertile land. The Saradian government enlists Dr. Genshiro Shiragami (Kōji Takahashi), who brings along his daughter, Erika (Yasuko Sawaguchi), for the project. Unfortunately, a terrorist bombing destroys the lab where the cells were housed and kills Erika. Years later, Dr. Shiragami becomes a recluse trying to merge Erika's cells with a rose to keep her soul. Japanese scientists are developing "Anti-Nuclear Energy Bacteria" using Godzilla's cells, and they recruit Dr. Shiragami, to whom he reluctantly agrees. Unbeknownst to the scientists, Shiragami merges the Godzilla cells with the rose, creating the plant-like monster Biollante. With Godzilla reawakening from his volcanic tomb, it's only a matter of time before both monsters duke it out. 

Review

Godzilla Vs. Biollante tends to be overlooked outside hardcore fans, which is a shame considering its uniqueness. This film not only boasts one of the series' most original monsters, but it also features a strong human-centered storyline. Shiragami's arc of trying to preserve his daughter echoes themes of grief and loss and offers commentary on genetic engineering. Remember that this film came out two years before Jurassic Park tackled similar issues of the dangers of science. Also, Biollante herself has a distinctive monster design, being a giant puppet instead of the tried-and-true guy-in-suit monster. From its initial appearance as a giant rose to a massive plant mass with a crocodile head, it's truly memorable. While the limited mobility means we don't get the knock-down drag-out fights of previous films, the battle is still unforgettable. Plus, Biollante is one of the only monsters that make Godzilla look small in comparison.

Kōji Takahashi does a great job as the brilliant yet grief-stricken Dr. Shiragami trying to atone for his mistakes. Even if you disagree with his methods, you understand what he goes through in wanting to bring his daughter back. Another cast member worth mentioning is Megumi Odaka as Miki Saegusa, a psychic girl who becomes a recurring character. Another aspect that makes this entry stand out is establishing continuity with the previous films, which carries on throughout. Seeing how the world evolves to combat these new threats is exciting and makes you want to see what's next. Like before, the scenes of the military fighting Godzilla are spectacular with its miniatures and guy-in-suit techniques. The Godzilla suit in this looks much more menacing and threatening than the admittedly goofy one in the last film. Unfortunately, the music sometimes lacks, trying to mix the original theme with fast-paced rock.

As great as the human storyline is, it's not without its flaws, namely how scattered it feels. The subplot with the Saradian agent comes and goes out of nowhere without any meaningful payoff. So many little subplots and side stories happen one after another that it's hard to focus on what's happening. Also, like the last film, this tries to philosophize Godzilla by asking who the real monster is, which is silly. Sure, the original explored themes of nuclear destruction in post-war Japan, but it was still a giant monster movie. The film takes a while to get going, but once it does, the final battle with Biollante is a show-stopper. Despite its flaws, this is still a unique and original Godzilla film that longtime fans and newcomers should enjoy. Overall, Godzilla Vs. Biollante is a hidden gem within the legendary monster's historic franchise.

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