On Nov. 3, 1954, the “King of the Monsters” was born. Godzilla turns 70 this weekend, as the world celebrates the pop culture icon’s multimedia canon across film, TV, animation, art and a plethora of merchandise and collectibles.
“From a terrifying force of nature representing the horrors of war, to a parental figure primed for blockbuster team-ups (Mothra, Rodan and Mecha-Godzilla), Godzilla’s role varied with each new era incarnation,” notes “Monsterpedia” from Godzilla.com.
“When Godzilla breathed its horrifying heat ray to set Tokyo ablaze, cinema was changed forever.”
On Saturday, Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden celebrates the big scaly lug’s birth with a presentation on Godzilla’s historical and cultural impact, a screening of the original 1954 “Godzilla” and birthday cake.
Marketing and Events Manager Eric Granson says Nikka Yuko is excited about the off-season. “Most people think the garden closes for winter, but we still do things here.”
“There’s a lot of cool things going on,” he adds.
The event this Saturday will feature the history of Godzilla, the symbolism behind the phenomenon and how it all came about, notes Granson. “And the opening of doors it left for monster movies throughout history.”
“We want to celebrate everything about the ‘King of Monsters.’ I even heard Godzilla might be there. We’re still waiting to hear back, but I’m pretty sure Godzilla might make an appearance,” teases Granson.
According to Granson, Nikka Yuko has celebrated Godzilla’s birthday in the past. “This year, we decided to make it a little bit bigger.”
The cost of admission to the special event includes popcorn, a Japanese soda, the film screening and cake.
“It’s going to be a fun night,” says Granson.
The ginormous party kicks off at 6 p.m. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit online at nikkayuko.com/event/godzillas-birthday-bash.
Granson says to also stay tuned to hear more about the annual Winter Light Festival to be announced in November.
Happy birthday big guy from My Lethbridge Now, CJOC and The Ranch.
