Since Godzilla’s first appearance more than fifty years ago, the King of the Monsters has become a cinematic icon and a globally recognized symbol of Japan. But why have audiences around the world responded with such passion to a giant, fire-breathing movie monster? What is it about a Japanese actor in a rubber lizard suit destroying miniature cities that has inspired love, loyalty, and laughter over generations of fans? This talk will explore the reasons why postwar Japanese pop culture, and Godzilla in particular, has been embraced globally. Lighthearted but rooted in current scholarship, the talk will consider the legacies of historical traumas (like World War II, the Cold War, and 9-11), the role of marketing and media economics, the wacky appeal of dubbing and inexpensive special effects, the lingering charm of nostalgia, and the abiding power of Godzilla as a big-screen hero.
Event Details: Sunday, July 10 from 1:00-2:30 p.m. Rosemont Hotel at O’Hare, (Main Hall) 5550 N. River Road Rosemont, IL 60018 Free Admission
Contact: Erica Kono The Japan America Society of Chicago kono@jaschicago.org 312-263-3049 www.jaschicago.org
