Remastered GREEN SLIME Coming To DVD From Warner Archives

Written By: Ken Hulsey
Sources: Dread Central / Warner Archives

During my decade long career of writing about sci fi and horror movies there were always two DVD releases that fans have constantly hounded me about. One was "War of the Gargantuas", which thankfully Sony (Classic Media)released in 2008, and the other was "The Green Slime", which had surprisingly remained a no-show, that is, until now.

Warner Bros has finally seen the light and decided to give all the B movie junkies out there what they want. The film will be released through the studios "Warner Archives" service, which is similar to Amazon's "On Demand", where in the DVD won't be produced until someone orders it.

In other words, there aren't copies of "The Green Slime" sitting on a shelf somewhere, when you order it, Warner Bros presses a copy and ships it out to you. It's kinda the studio's way of saving money by not producing DVDs that are just going to sit on store shelves.

However, unlike the Amazon.com service, these DVDs will not just be DVD-R copy of some old print of the film that Warner Bros found laying around someplace. This is a brand-new, remastered, print of "The Green Slime" presented in it's original widescreen (16x9 2.35 scope) format.

From what I hear, the copy is as "pristine" as it can get.

Fans can pre-order their copy of "The Green Slime" from Warner Archives before it's official October 24th release date for only $24.99 - HERE

Here is the info:

Green Slime, The (DVD, Remastered)
Made To Order DVD

Studio: Warner Bros.
Screen Aspect: 16 X 9 LETTERBOX
Run Time: 99 minutes
Packaging Type: Amaray Case
Genre: Horror, Sci-Fi/Fantasy

Synopsis:

After a perilous mission to a huge asteroid, a crew returns to its space station, unaware a bit of ooze from the asteroid clings to a crewman’s uniform. The green goop grows – into murderous, tentacled monsters. And as station members fight to live, gunk from the monsters’ wounds turns into more monsters! That’s the story. Now enjoy as our heroes fight to preserve Earth and, unintentionally, our own senses of humor with a movie that Kevin Thomas of the Los Angeles Times called “one of the funniest made-in-Japan sci-fi monster movies ever.” Kinji Fukasaku, whose later work was championed by Quentin Tarantino, directs. The world would be a far more bleak and joyless place without marvels like The Green Slime.

See Also: The 100 Greatest Monsters From Movies And Television #91 - #100 / The Los Angeles Comic & Sci Fi Con Prepares To Get Invaded By The Green Slime / The Green Slime (1968)(Toei / MGM)

Magnet To Release South Korean Monster Flick CHAW In The US As CHAWZ

Written By: Ken Hulsey
Sources: Undead Backbrain / Collider.com / Avery Guerra

Over the past half decade film makers in South Korea have really fallen in love with good old fashioned monster movies and despite what you might think, they have produced some of the genres better films over that time span.

One of these surprisingly good monster movies is Jeong-won Shin's giant boar on the loose film, entitled "Chaw", which has flown under the radar, mostly, here in the western world.

Now, thankfully, Magnet Releasing is set to bring the film to US shores under the odd title "Chawz". If you think that the film's new Americanized title sounds a little bit too much like "Jaws" you would be correct, for the folks over at Magnet are not trying to hide the fact they want people to make the mental connection.

Here is the press release:

The Wagner Cuban Company’s Magnet Releasing, genre arm of Magnolia Pictures, announced today that it has acquired North American rights to CHAWZ, a wild and funny Korean monster movie about a giant, vicious pig terrorizing an idyllic countryside. Directed by Jeong-won Shin, CHAWZ is an affectionate tribute to classing monster movies that boasts fantastically gory special effects of the porcine beast attacking innocent tourists looking to pick organic vegetables.

“If JAWS was looking to branch out to dry land, without a doubt he’d want to be CHAWZ,” said Magnet SVP Tom Quinn. “Another worthy addition to the Korean monster hall of fame and the Magnet Releasing library.”

Youngjoo Suh, CEO of Finecut comments, “I’m delighted to work again with Magnolia who did a brilliant job for the distribution of THE HOST. We very much look forward to our collaboration through CHAWZ.”

The North American deal was negotiated by Magnet’s Quinn and Peter Van Steemberg with Youngjoo Suh and Luna Kim from Finecut.

And here is another synopsis:

Shock and fear wash over the quiet, peaceful town of Sameri when ecologist (Soo Ryeon) discovers the body parts of a girl in the mountains. Officer Kim Kang Su (Uhm Tae Woong), newly transferred from Seoul, gets assigned to the case, but it soon transpires this is no ordinary homicide. Cheon Il Man (Jang Hang Seon), the victim’s grandfather, is convinced that the culprit is a giant man-eating boar, and more will be claimed if the beast isn’t taken down. Kim’s own mother has gone missing, and may have already fallen victim. All interested in capturing the boar for reasons of their own, Kim, Cheon, Soo Ryeon, opportunistic hunter Baek (Yoon Je Moon), and detective Shin (Park Hyuk Kwon) head into the dangerous wilds, but will they make it back out alive?

"Chaw" .... or "Chawz" as it were, made it's debut on this side of the Pacific this past June at the New York Asian Film Festival, where it drew very favorable reviews from the fans in attendance.

Here are some great stills from the film, that were collected by Avery Guerra:

See Also: The Ancient Dogoo Girl, Death Kappa And Chaw Invade New York / The First Look At The Giant Razorback From Jeong-won Shin's "Chaw" / It's Giant Korean Pigs Run Amok In Chaw

Bigfoot Movie News - Nightbeasts Premiere Info - The Bloody Rage Comes To DVD

Written By: Ken Hulsey
Sources: Brent Thomas / James Baack / Avery Guerra

Well, the Bigfoot movie craze that exploded throughout 2009 and the early part of 2010 seems to be coming to a halt, or at least taking a breather for a bit.

It seems like all that I have been writing about lately is stories about monsters from the sea, but fear not, I do have a couple of noteworthy items from the world of Sasquatch cinema to pass along to you.

I don't know if you remember back to a October of last year when I wrote an article about a very promising Bigfoot related film project called "Nightbeasts", which was written, produced and directed by film maker Wes Sullivan.

The film was to be Sullivan's first foray into 'live-action' cinema after a very successful career as a animator on such classics as "Aladdin", "A Goofy Movie", "Pocahontas" and "Hercules" for Disney.

At the time I didn't really do much of a write-up on the film, mostly because I was literally overwhelmed with harry hominid movie stories at the time, though I though the trailer that was out for the film at the time was quite good, and I thought that the story was rather interesting.

Well, almost a year has gone by since that time, and I had pretty much forgotten about "Nightbeasts" until I received an email about it's premiere earlier this week.

Also attached to the email was a link to a brand-new trailer for "Nightbeasts", which has rekindled my interest in seeing this one.

Here is the skinney:

"Nightbeasts" stars Zach Galligan (Gremlins 1&2), Audra Wise (Nip/Tuck, Miss Cast Away) and young Chad Trager, as common everyday people who, along with a group of Native Americans, are menaced by a clan of angry Sasquatch.



I know that's not much of a synopsis, but there is no official info out there about the film, so I had to go with a 'Readers Digest" condensed summery of what is seen in both trailers.

"Nightbeasts" is set to premiere at the Arpa International Film Festival at the historic Hollywood Egyptian Theatre in Hollywood California on September 24th 2010.

At this time the website for the Egyptian doesn't reflect that festival, yet, but when it does you can find out more info - HERE

I am happy to report that James Baack's film, "The Bloody Rage of Bigfoot", is now available on DVD through Amazon.com!

As I first reported back in July, Baack was able to secure a distribution deal for his film through Cheezy Flicks Entertainment, the same company that owns the rights the Charles Pierce classic, "The Legend of Boggy Creek." Well, now that deal has bore fruit and the film has been unleashed on the unsuspecting populous.

If you have been even a casual reader of MIN for the past year-and-a-half then you should know all about "Bloody Rage", due to the fact that Baack has been feeding me exclusives about the film since it was first announced in March of 2009.

If for some reason you are either new to the site, have short-term memory loss, or ya just missed it somehow, let me some up the film this way ......um ...... Bigfoot (obviously, right?) ..... um ....... hot sadistic witches, a nutso clown ..... really cheesy special effects, blood, guts, a Godzilla/Sasquatch hybrid .... oh, and it's all in 3D!

Okay, that makes the film sound crazy right? Well, there is much more here than meets the eye. The film really is a psychological thriller that incorporates all of the elements that I mentioned above, plus, and most importantly, it's a fun film to watch.

Check out the trailer:



And buy the movie below:

See Also: Another Reason To Not Wander Around In The Woods At Night - Wes Sullivan's 'Nightbeasts'

THE BLOODY RAGE OF BIGFOOT - New DVD Deal And Website / The New Poster For James Baack's BLOODY RAGE OF BIGFOOT - Cast And Crew On MNBRT Radio / The Bloody Rage Of Bigfoot - Preview Clips, Nasty Church Letters And Sequel News / The Bloody Rage Of Bigfoot - Behind The Scenes Shots / And Yet....More Photos From 'The Bloody Rage Of Bigfoot' / New Evidence Of The Bloody Rage Of Bigfoot / James Baack Overcomes All Hurdles To Complete 'The Bloody Rage Of Bigfoot' / The Bloody Rage Of Bigfoot - Two Hot Girls On A Motorcycle / Baack's Hardcore Bigfoot Babes....With Guns! / The Bloody Rage Of Bigfoot - Censored For Your Protection / Satantha And Loosey-Fur The Two Wicked Witches From The Bloody Rage Of Bigfoot / Satantha Cuts Through The News - The Bloody Rage Of Bigfoot / The Bloody Rage Of Bigfoot (3D) - Beauty And The Beast....Well, More Like Beauty Is The Beast.. / The First Look At Demonfoot From The Bloody Rage Of Pigfoot...I Mean Bigfoot / The Bloody Rage Of Bigfoot - New Trailer And Filming News / The Bloody Rage Of Bigfoot - Bigfoot Revealed! / The First Image Of The Monster From The Bloody Rage Of Bigfoot / The First Publicity Stills From The Bloody Rage Of Bigfoot / The Bloody Rage Of Bigfoot Trailer And Teaser Poster / James Baack Is Conjuring Up A Bloody Bigfoot Movie In 3D<>

StarCrash Coming To DVD And Blu-Ray From Shout! Factory

Source: Shout! Factory (Press Release)

A couple of weeks back I broke the story that Shout! Factory was going to be releasing "StarCrash" on DVD and Blu-Ray as part of their "Roger Corman's Cult Classics" line.

From the press release below, it really looks as if the video distributor has gone all-out on this one, which shout make the fans of this cult-classic, and the ultra-sexy Caroline Monro, absolutely ecstatic.

STARCRASH

Starring Caroline Munro, David Hasselhoff, Christopher Plummer,
Joe Spinell and Marjoe Gortner

2-DISC SPECIAL-EDITION BLU-RAY™ AND DVD
Digitally Remastered and Presented in Widescreen for the First Time with a Galaxy’s Worth of Special Features!

Crashing Home Entertainment Shelves Nationwide September 14, 2010 From Shout! Factory

One of the most eagerly awaited inter-galactic science-fiction adventures, released by Roger Corman’s New World Pictures, will finally be made available for the first time to the home entertainment shelves as StarCrash, directed by Luigi Cozzi, will debut September 14, 2010 on 2-Disc Special Edition Blu-ray and DVD from Shout! Factory, in association with New Horizons Picture Corporation. An adventure like no other, the StarCrash 2-Disc Special Edition contains anamorphic widescreen presentation of the movie with DTS HD 5.1 surround sound (Blu-ray), a reversible cover featuring vintage art for original movie posters and a payload of bonus content including all-new interviews and commentaries with cast and crew, rare behind-the-scenes footage and much more! A must-have for loyal fans of Roger Corman and Luigi Cozzi, science fiction enthusiasts and collectors, StarCrash 2-Disc Special Edition Blu-ray and DVD mark the latest installments from the popular ROGER CORMAN’S CULT CLASSICS home entertainment series from Shout! Factory. Each Special Edition Blu-ray and DVD is sold separately. Blu-ray is priced to own at $26.97; and DVD is available at $19.93.

Produced in Italy in the wake of Star Wars’ phenomenal success, StarCrash (also known as The Adventures of Stella Star in overseas territories) became an international blockbuster in its own right. This 1979 film became one of New World Pictures’ biggest box-office hits. Critics might have laughed, by so did audiences, who grooved to its campy humor, wildly imaginative special effects (some of them quite good!) and non-stop adventure. Where Star Wars dared not go, StarCrash went -- at warp speed!

The lasting peace of the galaxy is threatened by the diabolical and relentless Count Zarth Arn (cult icon Joe Spinell, Rocky, The Godfather and The Godfather - Part II), who is determined to take the universe for himself and make each planet his plaything, each inhabitant his slave. There is no question that the Count is evil, given his propensity for cackling at every opportunity.

Can anyone save the universe from this megalomaniacal madman? Indeed there is, and she’s quite a beauty.

Brave, bikini-clad star warrior Stella Star (Caroline Munro, The Spy Who Loved Me, At the Earth’s Core) and her co-pilot Akton (child evangelist-turned-actor Marjoe Gortner, Food of the Gods, Mausoleum) are pressed into service to thwart the evil Zarth Arn’s plot. If they succeed, galactic peace will be achieved. If they fail, the universe will fall into decay and destruction at the hands of its sadistic new overlord.

Have no fear, because Stella Star is here!

The film’s zesty, star-studded cast also includes People’s Choice Award winner David Hasselhoff (Knight Rider, Baywatch) in one of his first big-screen roles, noted screen tough guy Robert Tessier (The Longest Yard, The Cannonball Run) and legendary two-time Emmy® and Tony® Award winner, and Academy Award® nominee Christopher Plummer (The Last Station, Murder by Decree, The Sound of Music) as The Emperor.

StarCrash was written and directed by fan favorite Luigi Cozzi (AKA Lewis Coates), whose other cult masterworks include Alien Contamination (an “homage” to Alien) and the unforgettable Lou Ferrigno vehicle Hercules (an “homage” to Conan the Barbarian). The film also boasts a rousing score by five-time Academy Award® winner John Barry (Dances With Wolves, Out of Africa, 10 James Bond films).

Alas, StarCrash would prove to be the only big-screen Stella Star adventure ... but as its worldwide legion of fans will attest, it was one to remember!

STARCRASH 2-DISC SPECIAL EDITION BLU-RAY and DVD BONUS CONTENT

New Anamorphic Widescreen Transfer (1.85:1) and DTS HD 5.1 Surround Sound (Blu-ray), Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound (DVD)

Disc One:

• Interview with writer/director Luigi Cozzi
• StarCrash: the music of John Barry, a detailed analysis of the score by
Mars of Deadhouse Music
• 2 feature-length commentaries by StarCrash historian Stephen Romano:

Commentary 1: the history of StarCrash, the making of the film and its importance in 1970s fantastic cinema.

Commentary 2: StarCrash scene-by-scene: production trivia, anecdotes and critical analysis.

• Behind-the-scenes image gallery, featuring storyboards, art, and rare, never-before-seen photos!
• Promotional art gallery, featuring photos, posters, lobby cards and early poster designs by Drew Struzan
• Fan art gallery, featuring an exclusive look at the all-new, sexy Stella Star art from fantasy illustrator Robin Greenville Evans
• Theatrical trailer with commentary by Eli Roth from Trailersfromhell.com and an all-new exclusive trailer commentary by filmmaker/editor Joe Dante!
• TV spots and radio Spots

DISC TWO
• Interview with actress Caroline Munro (60 min.)
• 17 Deleted and alternate scenes
• The complete, original StarCrash screenplay, illustrated with original storyboards and early, full-color concept art
• Exclusive 20-minute behind-the-scenes footage reel, with commentary
• The making of the special effects of StarCrash by Armando Valcauda with exclusive, never-before-seen special-effects footage

Shout! Factory will continue to present ROGER CORMAN’S CULT CLASSICS home entertainment releases on a monthly basis. Upcoming highlights include The Slumber Party Massacre collection, The Evil, Twice Dead, The Warrior and The Sorceress, Barbarian Queen, Not of This Earth, Terror Within, Streets, Angel in Red, Lady in Red, Crazy Mama, Big Bad Mama, among others.

Independent filmmaker-producer Roger Corman’s storied career ranks as one of Hollywood’s most amazing success stories. Having produced more than 350 films and directed 50 others, his influence on American film goes far beyond his own energetic, creative low-budget movies. He is arguably one of Hollywood’s most gifted and masterful filmmakers. In 2009 he was the recipient of an honorary Academy Award for his contribution to the medium of film.

Noted for his keen ability to spot young talent, Corman’s most lasting legacy will undoubtedly be the legion of producers, directors, writers and actors he has fostered, among them: Jack Nicholson, Francis Ford Coppola, Robert De Niro, Martin Scorsese, James Cameron, Ron Howard, Peter Fonda, Jonathan Demme, Gale Anne Hurd, Diane Ladd, Tommy Lee Jones, William Shatner, Sandra Bullock, Bruce Dern, Talia Shire, Charles Bronson, Joe Dante, Carl Franklin, Jonathan Kaplan, Bill Paxton, Dennis Hopper, Curtis Hanson, Peter Bogdanovich, John Sayles, David Carradine and Sally Kirkland.

Shout! Factory is a diversified entertainment company devoted to producing, uncovering and revitalizing the very best of pop culture. Founders Richard Foos, Bob Emmer and Garson Foos have spent their careers sharing their music, television and film faves with discerning consumers the world over. Shout! Factory’s DVD offerings serve up classic, contemporary and cult TV series, riveting sports programs, live music, animation and documentaries in lavish packages crammed with extras. The company’s audio catalogue boasts GRAMMY®-nominated boxed sets, new releases from storied artists, lovingly assembled album reissues and indispensable “best of” compilations. These riches are the result of a creative acquisitions mandate that has established the company as a hotbed of cultural preservation and commercial reinvention. With its fingers on the pulse of pop culture, Shout! Factory continues to impact the entertainment media landscape through acquisition of top quality programming for home entertainment releases. Shout! Factory is based in Santa Monica, California. For more on Shout! Factory, visit http://www.shoutfactory.com/

See Also: Starcrash And Gamera DVD News / B Movie Queen Caroline Monro To Make A Special UK Appearance / Starcrash (1979)

Club Tokyo: A G-collectors' Database

Above, a porcelain Godzilla figure (owned by yours truly). Is it listed at Club Tokyo?

Club Tokyo: A G-collectors' Database

by Armand Vaquer

Fans of any subject, genre or person tend to collect items associated with that particular passion. Godzilla (and kaiju) fans are no exception.

Some collect movie memorabilia such as posters, lobby cards and theater giveaways. Others will collect toys, action figures, VHS tapes, DVDs and other items.

There is one place where all Godzilla and kaiju collectors can get information on virtually all collectibles: Club Tokyo.

Club Tokyo is a website database in which all items are catalogued with a history of each item, including variants, are presented. It is overseen by Richard Cox, Mike Johnson and Bob Schneider.

Club Tokyo has been around since July 28, 1998 and it is constantly updated by Cox, Johnson and Schneider with the help from fan contributors. I've contributed a few items.

The site is broken down into different categories, such as figures, candy/capsule toys, theater exclusives, kits, prototypes, articles, paperwork, miscellaneous and reviews.

If there's been an item produced concerning Godzilla, Gamera or other kaiju, chances are it has been catalogued at Club Tokyo. If not, and you have the item, feel free to contribute the information on it!

So, if you are a collector of Godzilla and kaiju items, you will want to take a look at Club Tokyo. It is very easy to lose track of time while perusing it.

Their website is http://www.clubtokyo.org/

Monster DVD Madness! DEMEKING, GAMERA And HOUSE OF THE WOLF MAN

Written By: Ken Hulsey
Sources: Undead Backbrain / Dread Central / Amazon.com / Avery Guerra

Isn't it amazing how things always happen in 'threes'?

Here I was, about to post a quick little article about the new DVD art for Shout! Factory's upcoming Gamera releases, when I get a couple of emails from my buddy Avery Guerra about two more really cool DVDs that are set to be released later this Fall.

Not wanting to spend all day writing up a bunch of articles on these upcoming DVD releases I, like I generally do in these instances, opted to create one article that includes everything.

So here we go:

HOUSE OF THE WOLF MAN

Honestly I am a bit ashamed of the fact that, until about twenty minutes ago, I had never heard of this movie, which is a real shame because I would have loved to have written another article on it, and also because after watching the trailer (below) "House of the Wolf Man" is now on the top of my 'must have' DVD list.

Though filmed in 2009 this homage to the classic monster films from Universal, directed by Eben McGarr, has the look and feel as if it was filmed in the 1940s.

This one has it all, Dracula, Frankenstein, The Wolf Man, sexy dames, and a supporting cast of creepies that look as if they honestly stepped out of Hollywood's golden age of horror.

Oh, and most importantly, the film stars Ron Chaney, the son of Lon Chaney Jr., who played the Wolf Man in many of Universal's classics and the grandson of Lon Chaney, the legendary "Man of a Thousand Faces".

Rounding out the cast are John P. McGarr, Dustin Fitzsimons, Jeremie Loncka, Sara Raftery, Cheryl Rodes and Jim Thalman

The Plot:

Five strangers are invited to a castle under the pretense that one may inherit it. Little do they know what dangers await at the House of the Wolf Man.

Sounds like "House on Haunted Hill" meets "The Ghost of Frankenstein" ........ which is a good thing.

Look for "House of the Wolf Man" on DVD September 28th from Taurus Entertainment and Ryko Video.

After watching the trailer (at the bottom of this article) you will want to order this one from Amazon.com (Below)

GAMERA VS GYOAS / GAMERA VS VIRAS and GAMERA VS GIRON / GAMERA VS JIGER

Okay, this is what I originally set out to write about this morning.

As I reported last week, Shout! Factory will be releasing both the "Gamera Vs. Guiron" / "Gamera Vs. Jiger" (2 DVD Set) and the "Gamera Vs. Gyaos" / "Gamera Vs. Viras" (2 DVD Set) on September 21st.

Since that time the cover art for both of these Gamera DVD sets had been released, so I thought you might enjoy taking a look at them.

Speaking of Shout! Factory, and Gamera, kaiju know-it-all (and my friend) August Ragone will be heading a panel about Shout's two prior DVD releases, "Gamera Vs. Barugon" and "Gamera, The Giant Monster" tomorrow at noon at the San Diego Comic Con.

Here is the skinny:

Gamera, The Invincible!— Author August Ragone (Chronicle Books' Eiji Tsuburaya: Master of Monsters) presents a visual tribute to Godzilla's No. 1 rival, the original Mutant Flying Turtle himself: Gamera! This program celebrates the first official DVD release of the original 1960s-1970s film series from Shout! Factory, with commentary on how Gamera was created and how the films were made, as well as rare, behind-the-scenes photographs and clips. Find out if Gamera is really full of turtle meat in the Q&A and win copies of Shout!'s latest release Gamera vs. Barugon -- all in one colossal presentation guaranteed to knock you right out of your shell! Room 32AB

As luck would have it, I'm going to miss that one. My family has tickets for Friday, not Thursday.

As you can already assume, Amazon already has these two available for preorder:

Gamera Vs. Gyaos / Gamera Vs. Viras [Double Feature]DVD $17.99

Gamera Vs. Guiron / Gamera Vs. Jiger [Double Feature] DVD $17.99


DEMEKING, THE SEA MONSTER

Speaking of Japanese monster movies, here is one that didn't get much press, "Demeking, The Sea Monster".

Just like how "Gappa, The Monster From a Prehistoric Planet" really came from an island, not outer space, "Demking" hails from space, not from the sea.

Isn't amazing how American distributors always get these things wrong? Don't they even watch these movies before they give them an English title?

Anyway, Cinema Epoch will be releasing this one on DVD October 12th.

Here is the plot:

Set in a dreary port town in 1970, the story revolves around a group of boys led by the older Kameoka (Kohei Kiyasu) who form their own exploration group. One day Kameoka meets a strange man named Hachiya (Takeshi Nadagi) who works at the local amusement park. Hachiya is convinced a vision of the future he experienced is real, and one day he will have to fight a giant monster called Demeking to stop it from destroying Tokyo. When the time comes, Hachiya suddenly up and leaves. However, with the guidance of a note he leaves behind, Kameoka and his friends set off on an adventure to discover the true nature of Demeking.

sounds like a 'coming of age' story, but in actuality it is about a giant alien snail that comes to Earth to slime everything up ......... which is also a good thing.

You know, Amazon, buy now ..... blah, blah, blah....

No, Really, Buy Now From Amazon!

Okay, I went a little nuts there. It's been a long morning.

Here is that "House of the Wolf Man" trailer I promised you, plus some more promo pics from the film as well. Enjoy!

Starcrash And Gamera DVD News

Written By: Ken Hulsey
Source: Amazon.com

While researching a DVD for a loyal MIN reader, I stumbled upon three upcoming DVD releases from Shout! Factory that will be of interest to many of you.

Though Shout! has not officially announced them yet, they will be releasing "Starcrash", "Gamera Vs. Guiron" / "Gamera Vs. Jiger" (2 DVD Set) and "Gamera Vs. Gyaos" / "Gamera Vs. Viras" (2 DVD Set) this September.

Since none of these DVDs have been officially announced, there are no details to report yet.

The Gamera DVDs have a tentative release date for September 21st while "Starcrash" will be falling to Earth a week earlier on September 14th.

Each of these can be preordered through Amazon:

Starcrash (Roger Corman Cult Classics) DVD $17.99

Gamera Vs. Gyaos / Gamera Vs. Viras [Double Feature]DVD $17.99

Gamera Vs. Guiron / Gamera Vs. Jiger [Double Feature] DVD $17.99

Here is an excerpt of my review of "Starcrash":

In a galaxy of neon colored stars, two would be space pirates, Stella Star and Arkton, are forced into a quest to find a secret weapon that could destroy the ruling galactic empire. Of course there is the evil Count Zarth Arn who uses his forces to thwart the two as they search for it. Thrown into the mix are a tribe of Amazons and a missing prince who was believed dead, but turns out to be very much alive. All mixed in together with over the top laser fights and girls running around in as little clothes as possible. Hardly the kind of film that would be considered "original."

See Also: B Movie Queen Caroline Monro To Make A Special UK Appearance / Starcrash (1979)

"Destroy All Planets 2010": The Case of the Missing DVD / "Destroy All Planets 2010" Controversy - Part II / DESTROY ALL PLANETS Possible Legal Issues - My Two Cents / Fight Over "Destroy All Planets" Rights Brewing / DESTROY ALL PLANETS Gets A DVD Release While No One Was Looking / Shout! Factory To Release Gamera Vs. Barugon DVD July 6th! / A Classic Movie Monster Comic Strip - The Monsters That Devoured Canarsie / Monster Uber Geekdome- Ultraman Collages, Playing Cards & Alien vs Pooh / Shout! Factory To Release Gamera DVD / Scientists Ready To Unleash "Gamera" And Giant Cows Upon Mankind / Showa Gamera Movies To Be Released By Shout Factory / ADV Films: Rest In Peace / Ayako Fujitani Returns To The Spotlight In Michel Gondry’s Interior Design / "Gamera The Brave" Box Art / Gamera The Brave Comes To DVD December 30th!

THE BLOODY RAGE OF BIGFOOT - New DVD Deal And Website

Written By: Ken Hulsey
Source: James Baack

I just received an email from film maker James Baack stating that he has just signed a distribution deal for his film, "The Bloody Rage of Bigfoot" through Cheezy Flicks Entertainment, the same company that sells the Charles Pierce classic, "The Legend of Boggy Creek."

James didn't go into any details, except that the contract was inked on Wednesday, and that the deal would expand the availability of his Bigfoot horror movie that doubles as a psychological thriller.

In related news, Baack also passed along the news that his production company, Great Lakes Artists Group, a co-op between James, Steve Galayda, Ron Feyereisen, Tina Boivin, and his brother Paul Baack, had just launched a brand-new website. (Go Here)

Here is the info on Great Lakes Artists Group:

The Great Lakes Artists Group is an association of Chicago-area artists,
filmmakers, musicians, and writers. Founded in 2006 by noted cryptozoological
artist and painter James Baack, the group focuses on creative expressions
representing the outré and fantastic side of reality. The group has recently
celebrated a team milestone with the release of its first motion picture, the
horror comedy The Bloody Rage of Bigfoot. The enthusiastic reception the film has received from fans of the genre has inspired the group to begin planning a follow-up feature, tentatively called The Sisters of St. Tommygun. Watch this site for news of further developments!

"The Sisters of St. Tommygun" film is a new one on me, I may Baack revealed to me that his next film would be "Orgy of the Damned", (originally titled, "The Uninvited Alien Invasion"). I guess we will just have to wait and see on that one.

Along with news and information about the groups upcoming film the site is also the new home of Satantha & Loosey-Fur's House of Sin, a sub-site that features actresses Andrea Hutchison and Tina Boivin from "Bloody Rage" and the proposed "Orgy of the Damned". If you like girls with guns and girls posed on motorcycles go - HERE

I tip my hat to Baack and his comrades up in the Chicago area. I wish them continued success in their endeavors to keep pumping out their over-the-top horror movies.

See Also: The New Poster For James Baack's BLOODY RAGE OF BIGFOOT - Cast And Crew On MNBRT Radio / The Bloody Rage Of Bigfoot - Preview Clips, Nasty Church Letters And Sequel News / The Bloody Rage Of Bigfoot - Behind The Scenes Shots / And Yet....More Photos From 'The Bloody Rage Of Bigfoot' / New Evidence Of The Bloody Rage Of Bigfoot / James Baack Overcomes All Hurdles To Complete 'The Bloody Rage Of Bigfoot' / The Bloody Rage Of Bigfoot - Two Hot Girls On A Motorcycle / Baack's Hardcore Bigfoot Babes....With Guns! / The Bloody Rage Of Bigfoot - Censored For Your Protection / Satantha And Loosey-Fur The Two Wicked Witches From The Bloody Rage Of Bigfoot / Satantha Cuts Through The News - The Bloody Rage Of Bigfoot / The Bloody Rage Of Bigfoot (3D) - Beauty And The Beast....Well, More Like Beauty Is The Beast.. / The First Look At Demonfoot From The Bloody Rage Of Pigfoot...I Mean Bigfoot / The Bloody Rage Of Bigfoot - New Trailer And Filming News / The Bloody Rage Of Bigfoot - Bigfoot Revealed! / The First Image Of The Monster From The Bloody Rage Of Bigfoot / The First Publicity Stills From The Bloody Rage Of Bigfoot / The Bloody Rage Of Bigfoot Trailer And Teaser Poster / James Baack Is Conjuring Up A Bloody Bigfoot Movie In 3D

DESTROY ALL PLANETS Possible Legal Issues - My Two Cents

Written By: Ken Hulsey

Little did I know that when I was writing an article on Retromedia's DVD release of "Destroy All Planets" that it was going to be like pulling the pin on a hand grenade.

And now I can't put the pin back in.

Soon after I posted my article Armand Vaquer responded with a follow-up that reported on some concerns voiced by fans on just about every monster related message board that the Retromedia release may possibly be facing a legal challenge from Kadokawa Pictures who own the rights to the Gamera film series stemming from their purchase of Daiei, the studio that produced the original film.

In the spirit of fairness, I extended an open invitation to Fred Olen Ray of Retromedia to address many of these concerns/questions with a letter or article.

As of the time of this posting, Ray has not responded to invitation, though I should point out that I gave him a vary narrow window in which he could get his response to me and it may be still forthcoming, so please don't try to read anything into that.

If it comes in, I will post it here.

I think what needs to be pointed out here is the simple fact that it is not up to us fans to try and determine if Retromedia has the legal right to sell "Destroy All Planets" on DVD or not. That is up to Kadokawa Pictures, Retromedia, and most importantly, their legal representation to hassle over.

Long story short, Ray is a businessman and Retromedia is a business and generally speaking a company the size of the DVD manufacturer doesn't try to take on a major motion picture company like Kadokawa unless they legitimately believe they are in the right. Of course, some foolishly do, and end up forking out a big hunk of money in the precess.

It doesn't make any sense from a business stand point simply because no matter how many DVDs Retromedia may sell of "Destroy All Planets" it couldn't possibly add up to the legal fees and fines they could be saddled with if they loose a lawsuit to Kadokawa.

Trust me here, if the Japanese film maker believes that Ray and Retromedia are selling something that they own the rights to, a lawsuit will be coming very quickly. These are kind of situations copyright lawyers dream about.

Ultimately the only parties that now the whole story here are Retromedia and Kadokawa.

I should point out that since the aforementioned articles went to press, I have gotten e-mails to back up Fred Olen Ray's character and his company, which echo his claims that he has done nothing wrong in this case.

That may be very well be true.

I personally have had interactions with Ray and he does seem like a straight-up guy, but that only leads to the assumption that he hasn't acted with malice in this situation.

Which he very well may not have.

When it comes down to the bare facts, either Kadokawa will challenge this release of "Destroy All Planets" or not, and if they do it will be up to court to determine who legitimately owns the copyright.

It should be noted that so far, to my knowledge, the Japanese film company has not challenged any of the prior DVD prints of the Americanized versions of any of the Gamera films, namely from Alpha Video.

Read into that as you may.

So concludes "Destroy All Planets" DVD day on Monster Island News.

To be continued........

See Also: Fight Over "Destroy All Planets" Rights Brewing / DESTROY ALL PLANETS Gets A DVD Release While No One Was Looking / Shout! Factory To Release Gamera Vs. Barugon DVD July 6th! / A Classic Movie Monster Comic Strip - The Monsters That Devoured Canarsie / Monster Uber Geekdome- Ultraman Collages, Playing Cards & Alien vs Pooh / Shout! Factory To Release Gamera DVD / Scientists Ready To Unleash "Gamera" And Giant Cows Upon Mankind / Showa Gamera Movies To Be Released By Shout Factory / ADV Films: Rest In Peace / Ayako Fujitani Returns To The Spotlight In Michel Gondry’s Interior Design / "Gamera The Brave" Box Art / Gamera The Brave Comes To DVD December 30th!

DESTROY ALL PLANETS Gets A DVD Release While No One Was Looking

Written By: Ken Hulsey
Sources: Fred Olen Ray / Sidelong Glances of a Pigeon Kicker /Carl Craig / Avery Guerra

Sometimes good things come to those who wait, and if you have been waiting for the deluxe DVD release of "Destroy All Planets" (Gamera vs. Viras), you have been waiting for a few years.

In preparation for this article I had to look back, way back, into my archives to try and remember just when I first learned of Retromedia's plans to release a special edition DVD of "Destroy All Planets". Much to my surprise, I had to go back to the days before Monster Island News was a blog, back when the site was kensforce.com (remember that), which was pre 2007, probably something like 2005 or 2006. When you get older your memory isn't as crisp my friends.

I do recall talking to Carl Craig, who played Jim Morgan in the film, about him recording the commentary tracks for the release and I did write an article about that, but alas, since kensforce.com is gone, so is that article, so I couldn't pin down the exact date all of this started.

Anyway, since I hadn't heard a peep about it in a few years, I figured that the project had been scrapped.

Well, imagine my surprise when I was forwarded an email from Fred Olen Ray of Retromedia to announce that this long-forgotten DVD had been released and was now for sale on Amazon.com through their "on demand" program.

That means that the DVD is not produced until someone orders it, which also means that it will take about 48 hours for the product to ship out.

It seems with all the talk about Shout! Factory's release of both "Gamera, The Giant Monster" and "Gamera Vs. Barugon", "Destroy All Planets" was able to fly onto the online retailers listings under the radar. Well, as under the radar as a giant turtle with fire shooting out of it can get.

In fact, the release was done in such a covert manner that there isn't even any mention of it on the Retromedia website. Honestly, none whatsoever.

According to Ray, "We've transferred an original 16mm AIP-TV print and color corrected it two times to produce the best version of this film available"

"But the real reason to catch this Special Edition is the commentary track by American star, Carl Craig," He adds, "His recollections of the film making process is fascinating. Hosted by Brett Homenick and Damon Foster, recorded in Chicago by our own Randy Carter."

While I was doing all of my research, I did manage to dig up my 2005 interview with Carl Craig. I thought it would be cool to give everyone a preview of what will undoubtedly be on the commentary track for "Destroy All Planets" by posting a few excerpts here:

MIN: Destroy all Planets was your only acting job and it has been noted that you never really wanted to become an actor. For those fans who may have never heard the story, how did you end up being cast as Jim Morgan in the film?

CC: I was an American serviceman's kid in Japan from 1965-1969. My mother is Japanese and her older brother (my uncle) lived next to a Daiei producer. The producer was telling my uncle that Kenji Yuasa had finally gotten approval from Daiei management to have an American in the upcoming Gamera film but they were having a problem finding someone for the part. My uncle explained that he had a nephew that was blond and blue-eyed that spoke Japanese fluently. Numbers were exchanged and when I came home from school one day, my father explained I was going down to audition for a movie part. The rest is history.

MIN: Some of the Gamera films that were produced later also had story lines that featured young people. Were you ever considered for parts in those films? Was Jim Morgan ever considered as a character in those films?

CC: I was never approached or asked to do another Gamera feature. I left Japan in 1969 (the year after Destroy all Planets was done) and was not available anyway.


MIN: What is you fondest memory of working on the film?

CC: Getting out of school for almost 3 months. I had a limo driver and a tutor go to and from the set everyday.

MIN: I read on your website (gone now) about the passing of Gamera director Noriaki (Kenji) Yuasa. Was he a great influence on your life? How did his influences help mold that young man into the man you are today?

CC: Yuasasan was a gentle man. He was great with children and specifically me, a rookie on the set. He was calming, yet very forceful and made his point to me very clearly. He expected me to act when I had no acting experience. He was very fair and expected nothing less than 100% attention to detail. I sorta have that quality but feel I am very fair in my interpersonal relationships.

MIN: Are you surprised at how many fans there are worldwide of the Gamera films? Did you ever think that some 30+ years later people would still remember your role as Jim Morgan?

CC: I was rather freaked out actually. I attended my first convention in 2000 (shortly after it was discovered that I was Carl Craig aka Jim Morgan) I was amazed at all the stories told to me about fans who indicated their sentiments about the film. They called it their favorite Gamera movie. I am still amazed at the fanfare and the following. That is why I make every effort to share my experiences, the memorabilia and my experiences that I have from the film.

MIN: Have you remained a big Kaiju fan throughout the years? If so what are some of your favorites?

CC: I always liked Godzilla and Bob Eggleton made me a believer again. I liked the new Gamera from Kanekosan but feel loyalty to the Yuasa era Gamera. I have seen all the modern Gamera films. I own them all.

MIN: Many fans may not know that after Destroy All Planets you went on to become an Air Force Pilot and an advisor to former U.S. President George Bush. What are you most proudest moments from your post Gamera career?

CC: I retired from the Air Force as a Field Grade officer and senior pilot. I flew the venerable F-4 Phantom and the sleek T-38 Talon. I can say that I lived a dream by accomplishing those feats. I am a 18+ year Federal Law Enforcement officer in the Department of Homeland Security. The duty tour at the White House was an interesting one. I took two oaths to defend the constitution and have worked with some great people, doing an important and sometimes thankless job. I am proud of my Japanese heritage but I am most proud to be an American in a country with no boundaries for those that wish to push the envelope!

Sometimes you are afforded an opportunity of a lifetime. What you do with those opportunities says a lot about yourself. In my case a chance to act in a Kaiju film as a young kid. The other, a chance to fulfill a lifelong dream of being a jet pilot. Lastly, to serve my country in a capacity where dedication to duty, difficult times in leadership and horrific events (Oklahoma City Bombing, 9/11, etc) compel us all to act in a way we feel fit to express ourselves. Some may never have the opportunities that I had, some may never have something that significant in life just presented to you. I had to work to accomplish my goals in life. I have been successful in some and a failure in others but those failures were not because I didn't try hard enough. One must remember that no one owes us anything. If we expect to succeed in life, we must make the effort, time and time again, until we reach the level we desire to achieve. Failures can be expected, how we deal with failure also makes us better people. My favorite saying is; "Loyalty above all, except honor." Be sure you understand that loyalty has a price and that price cannot exceed the statute of honor. Doing the right thing all the time will get you far in life, selling yourself short of doing the right thing because your loyalty is misplaced, is a sad way to travel the roads of life. The first time you sell yourself short, you'll never be able to look yourself in the mirror ever again. I am proud of the fact that I can still look myself in the mirror, every day!

See Also: Shout! Factory To Release Gamera Vs. Barugon DVD July 6th! / A Classic Movie Monster Comic Strip - The Monsters That Devoured Canarsie / Monster Uber Geekdome- Ultraman Collages, Playing Cards & Alien vs Pooh / Shout! Factory To Release Gamera DVD / Scientists Ready To Unleash "Gamera" And Giant Cows Upon Mankind / Showa Gamera Movies To Be Released By Shout Factory / ADV Films: Rest In Peace / Ayako Fujitani Returns To The Spotlight In Michel Gondry’s Interior Design / "Gamera The Brave" Box Art / Gamera The Brave Comes To DVD December 30th!

Shout! Factory To Release Gamera Vs. Barugon DVD July 6th!

Source: Shout! Factory (Press Release)

Watch out Barugon, Gamera’s back this Summer!

GAMERA VS. BARUGON – SPECIAL EDITION
Presenting the North American DVD debut of the original Japanese version of the second GAMERA movie in anamorphic widescreen from a newly restored High-Definition master

SMASHING ONTO DVD ON JULY 6, 2010
FROM SHOUT! FACTORY

Returned from his exile into space, Gamera is the last survivor of a species of colossal chelonians, rumored to have originated 8,000 years ago from the lost continent of Atlantis. This titanic terrapin is feared by adults and loved by children.

Hot off the heel from the excitement of fan favorite Gamera, The Giant Monster – Special Edition DVD, Shout! Factory will unleash the second film in the original series, Gamera Vs. Barugon – Special Edition on July 6, 2010. The DVD contains a collectible reversible cover, a special booklet featuring an essay by actor Kojiro Hongo, audio commentary with August Ragone and Jason Varney, publicity galleries and widescreen presentation of the original movie from an all-new HD master and more! Packed with heart-pounding action and jaw-dropping fun, the collectible Gamera Vs. Barugon – Special Edition DVD is priced to own at $19.93.

Even though Japan's Self-Defense Forces sent Gamera hurtling into space in a giant rocket at the climax of Gamera: The Giant Monster, a stray meteor soon collides with his flying metal prison, freeing the ginormous turtle and allowing him to spin back to Earth. That sounds like it spells doom for Japan, but when another colossal creature named Barugon is awoken from an ancient slumber, all Hell breaks loose. And only Gamera can stop him.

After three greedy Japanese explorers steal a rare opal in New Guinea, not realizing that it is actually a monster egg, and unwittingly subject it to infrared radiation, it hatches and grows to immense size. Barugon is not simply bad because he's big: His elongated tongue, itself a deadly weapon, can emit a freezing spray, while he has the ability to shoot a deadly, laser-like rainbow from his back. And when our favorite fire-spitting Gamera becomes trapped in the creature’s frozen grip, mankind looks like it could be doomed. Can one of the explorers, Keisuke Hirata (Kojiro Hongo, Satan’s Sword), and a New Guinea native, Karen (Kyoko Enami, The Woman Gambler), help to defeat Barugon before it plunges Japan into a new Ice Age?

Gamera Vs. Barugon, the second entry in Daiei Studios’ monster series, was directed by veteran Shigeo Tanaka (The Great Wall) and is more lavish than the original in terms of scale and scope — it was shot in spectacular color! Noriaki Yuasa (Gamera, The Giant Monster) was charged with helming the visual effects for this outing, and the results are fantastic!

The original films have woefully been underrepresented on DVD, especially releases featuring the authentic Japanese versions. Shout! Factory, in association with Kadokawa Pictures, will continue to present Gamera Special Edition home entertainment releases in North America. Upcoming highlights include Gamera Vs. Gyas, Gamera Vs. Viras, Gamera Vs. Guillon, Gamera Vs. Jiger, among others.

See Also: A Classic Movie Monster Comic Strip - The Monsters That Devoured Canarsie / Monster Uber Geekdome- Ultraman Collages, Playing Cards & Alien vs Pooh / Shout! Factory To Release Gamera DVD / Scientists Ready To Unleash "Gamera" And Giant Cows Upon Mankind / Showa Gamera Movies To Be Released By Shout Factory / ADV Films: Rest In Peace / Ayako Fujitani Returns To The Spotlight In Michel Gondry’s Interior Design / "Gamera The Brave" Box Art / Gamera The Brave Comes To DVD December 30th!

The Original KING KONG Comes To Blu-ray September 28th!

Source: Warner Bros (Press Release)

Warner Brothers presents...
KING KONG (1933) — Fully Restored Blu-ray Book Special Edition (with 32-page booklet of rare photography and trivia)
— Available September 28

On September 28, 2010, the original 1933 RKO classic KING KONG makes its long awaited debut on Blu-ray Disc. Suggested retail price is $34.99.

Presented by Warner Home Video, the newly remastered King Kong features extensive bonus content, including a collectible Blu-ray Book written by renowned film historian Rudy Behlmer; a feature length documentary on Kong creator Merian C. Cooper, directed by acclaimed filmmakers Kevin Brownlow and Christopher Bird; commentary by Ray Harryhausen and Ken Ralston with Merian C. Cooper and Fay Wray; and a seven-part documentary that delves deeply into just about every aspect of the making of the film (see detail list of extras below).

With 32 pages of rare photography and trivia, the captivating Blu-ray Book, written by Rudy Behlmer, centers around the vision of director, Merian C. Cooper and his larger than life persona that brought the story of King Kong to the screen. A prolific film researcher and historian, Behlmer personally interviewed Cooper and has written numerous books and contributed to a wide variety of documentaries, videos, DVDs and LaserDiscs about Hollywood's Golden Age.

In this very special Blu-ray release, the newly remastered film is presented in its 1933 entirety and includes scenes that were originally considered too shocking for the 1938-1956 re-releases. With equal parts adventure, horror and old-fashioned romance, King Kong is a milestone of movie-making that has endured for more than seven decades.

Named as one of the "100 Best Films of All Time" by Time Magazine, King Kong premiered in New York City in 1933. The film was an instant success, breaking box-office records to become one of the top moneymakers of the 1930s.

King Kong's state-of-the-art visual effects, entertaining story and touching conclusion captivated audiences and started a worldwide love affair with the giant ape. The film has also been included in seven of the American Film Institute's Top 100 lists, including the "100 Years...100 Movies" list.

A film ahead of its time, King Kong defied the technological limitations of the 1930s. Special effects pioneer Willis O'Brien's revolutionary stop-motion animation was not only technically brilliant but also highly imaginative and continues to impress even in today's era of computer-generated wizardry.

Directed and produced by Merian C. Cooper and Ernest B. Schoedsack, with a rousing score by Max Steiner (who also scored Gone with the Wind), King Kong stars Robert Armstrong, Bruce Cabot and Fay Wray, whose memorable performance as damsel in distress Ann Darrow cemented her place in pop culture and earned her the nickname "The Queen of Scream."

"It wasn't the airplanes. It was beauty killed the beast." —Carl Denham (Robert Armstrong)

In addition to its Blu-ray debut, King Kong will be available On Demand from cable and satellite providers, and for permanent download and digital rental through iTunes, Amazon Video On Demand, PlayStation Store and Xbox LIVE Zune Video Marketplace.

Blu-ray Book BONUS FEATURES:
• Commentary by Ray Harryhausen and Ken Ralston, with Merian C. Cooper and Fay Wray
• Merian C. Cooper Movies Trailer Gallery
• I'm King Kong! The Exploits of Merian C. Cooper (2005 documentary)
• Creation Test Footage with Commentary by Ray Harryhausen
• RKO Production 601: The Making of Kong, Eighth Wonder of the World --
a. The Origins of King Kong
b. Willis O'Brien and "Creation"
c. Cameras Roll on Kong, The Eighth Wonder
d. A Milestone in Visual Effects
e. Passion, Sound and Fury
f. The Mystery of the Lost Spider Pit Sequence
g. King Kong's Legacy


EXCERPT: At first blush "King Kong" may seem outmoded, with its exaggerated histrionics, its stilted dialogue, and its wooden acting, but then there's Kong, and how can you not still love him? When he falls from the Empire State Building, he takes us all with him. Yet we know, thanks to the magic of movies, that he'll be back, again and again, better than ever, whenever we want to see him once more. He wasn't called "King" for nothing.

—> Visit Warner's Official KONG site »
(currently contains details on the DVD editions)

"The joy is seeing the 1933 original, complete with Max Steiner's classic score and once-censored scenes."
—Peter Travers (Rolling Stone)

"It's still the quintessential pulp saga, capable of popping eyeballs 70-odd years later without the help of computers."
—Michael Atkinson (Movieline's Hollywood Life)

"The black-and-white granddaddy of beast-on-the-loose movies... The movie looks improved over earlier video and TV copies, and still packs a wallop."
—Steve Daly (Entertainment Weekly)

"What makes KONG unique is its mix of hokum, horror, and peculiar poetry."
—Glenn Kenny (Premiere)

Film Synopsis:
A Monster of creation's dawn breaks loose in our world today!
The legendary classic about a giant ape that is brought to New York City, and wreaks havoc!

A masterpiece and one of the top moneymakers of the 1930s. Fortune-hunters travel to Skull Island in search of the fabled giant ape "King Kong." Enticing him with the lovely Fay Wray they capture him and bring him back to New York where he escapes and ransacks the city searching for her.

Film director Carl Denham and actress Ann Darrow arrive on a prehistoric island in the hope of capturing a giant ape, worshipped as a god by the local inhabitants. The mighty Kong shows his sensitive side by falling for Ann, and, after his transportation to New York, rampages across the city in search of his new love.

Robert Armstrong stars as movie producer Carl Denham who travels to a mysterious, uncharted island in search of material for his next film. Also aboard are unemployed actress Ann Darrow (Fay Wray) and adventurer Jack Driscoll (Bruce Cabot).

Once the crew reaches Skull Island they discover it is home to prehistoric beasts including Kong, a giant ape who becomes obsessed with the crew´s blonde starlet.

King Kong teems with memorable moments, from the audience´s first glance at the giant ape to his last stand atop the Empire State Building.

Theatrical release: March 2, 1933 (New York).
KING KONG was added to the Library of Congress National Film Registry in 1991. The story originated with writer Edgar Wallace, who died before the film's 1933 release.

Despite Kong's apparent death at the end of the 1933 classic, the tale of a giant ape set loose on the modern world has been retold many times since. The quickie sequel, SON OF KONG, was released in 1933 and shared director Ernest B. Schoedsack, special effects man Willis O'Brian and star Robert Armstrong with the first film. Armstrong joined Helen Mack and Victor Wong on a trip back to Skull Island, where they discover Kong's young son.

In 1949, Schoedsack, O'Brian, and Armstrong went back to the well once more and retrieved MIGHTY JOE YOUNG, about another giant monkey. O'Brian shared effects duties with Ray Harryhausen this time out and Armstrong was joined in the cast by Terry Moore, Ben Johnson, Frank McHugh, and "Mr. Joseph Young."

Japanese director Inoshira Honda produced a pair of mid-1960s KONG movies, KING KONG ESCAPES and KING KONG VS. GODZILLA. Dino de Laurentiis produced an extravagant and largely unsuccessful remake of KING KONG in 1976. It was directed by John Guillermin with effects by Rick Baker. Jeff Bridges, Charles Grodin, John Randolph, and Rene Auberjonois starred in the film, which also featured the film debut of model Jessica Lange.

De Laurentiis and Guillermin also produced a 1986 sequel that was aptly titled KING KONG LIVES, which starred Brian Kerwin, Linda Hamilton, John Ashton, and Peter Michael Goetz. In this film, a pair of scientists find the resurrected gorilla a giant mate and battle those who would destroy the beast.

Before KING KONG, Willis O'Brian worked on the 1925 film THE LOST WORLD. Based on the Arthur Conan Doyle tale, this silent classic tells the story of a group of scientists who stumble on a prehistoric world of dinosaurs and other presumably extinct creatures while on a museum outing. It was directed by Harry Hoyt and starred Bessie Love, Wallace Beery, and Lewis Stone.

Stop-motion animation was used to create the 50-foot Kong out of six 18-inch models. These models were constructed out of rubber and rabbit fur over a metal skeleton. For close-ups, the filmmakers created a full-scale hand and 20-foot model of Kong's head and shoulders and covered them in bear hides.

See Also: The Top Ten Hottest Monsters Of 2009 / "Kong: King Of Skull Island" - New Artwork For The Graphic Novel / Kong: King Of Skull Island - The Mighty Ape Sequel / 3D Animation Bonanza - King Kong And Killer Beans / Steve Bissette Creates Special Artwork For New Hampshire Screening Of King Kong vs Godzilla / King Kong And Godzilla Invade The London Subway / King Kong vs Godzilla (1962)(Toho) / Nerdoh Is Producing Movie Inspired T-Shirts In The UK / King Kong, Godzilla And The Creature From The Black Lagoon At The Rose Parade / King Kong vs Godzilla: Trailer / Universal Fire: King Kong & Godzilla Up In Smoke? / Kingukongu no gyakushu / King Kong Escapes (1967)

New Photos And DVD Release Info For “Deep Sea Monster Raiga"

Written By: Ken Hulsey
Sources: J-Film2009 / JETRO-USA / Taito International Comedy Film Festival / Starchild /Raiga Blog / Avery Guerra

It has been almost a year since Shinpei Hayashiya's film, "Deep Sea Monster Raiga", made it's debut at the “Tokusatsu Kaiju Tengoku” (SFX Monster Heaven) film festival in Tokyo last June. Since that time, things have been very, very, quite, with no new reports coming out of the "Raiga" camp.

That is, until today.

Indeed, it has just been announced that the film will, finally, be released on DVD, in Japan, on August 25th.

Here is the scoop:

...... Global Warming is the catalyst for unleashing giant monsters on Japan. The melting of the southern polar ice causes a disruption in Earth's ecosystem that causes the migration of the monsters to the island nation.

The largest of the sea monsters is a beast called "Raiga", which unleashes it's "Inconvenient Truth" on Tokyo just like Godzilla, Gamera, Mothra and Rodan have numerous times.

Reportedly, there are four different monsters in the film, "Raiga", and three others. You can get a look at one of them in the photos below.

Here are the film's details from the DVD:

“SHINKAIJÛ RAIGA” (2009)
English Title: RAIGA, the Monster from the Deep Sea
Genre: Sci-fi
Format: Digital Betacam / 85min / Color
Year of Production: 2009
[Theatrical] Release Date (Japan): June 27, 2009
Production Company: Crossroad
Director: Shinpei Hayashiya
Producers: Atsuko Iwai
Screenplay: Shinpei Hayashiya
Director of Photography: Toshiharu Nakagawa
Music: Keiichiro Kitazono
Main Cast: Yukijiro Hotaru, Miyu Oriyama

Also in conjunction with this upcoming release of "Deep Sea Monster Raiga", now being called, "Raiga, The Monster From The Deep Sea", three new English language synopsis have surfaced, and several new photos have been released.

First, here are the synopsis:

Set 60 years after the events from the previous film “Deep Sea Monster Reigo”, the threat of global warming is causing the southern polar ice-cap to slowly melt. Because of this, the ecosystem is disturbed and sea monsters are heading to Japan. [As] if things couldn’t get any worse, a huge sea monster by the name of Raiga arrives at Asakusa and begins its path of destruction on the town. (J-Film2009)

A monster from the deep-sea attacks again! This time in Asakusa, where many temples attract visitors from not only Japan, but also all over the world, the sparkling thunder brings a gigantic monster from the deep-sea with deadly fangs. It will burn Asakusa to ground. (JETRO-USA)

The second theatrical film directed by Shinpei Hayashiya, a rakugo master (comic storyteller). Raiga, the evolved version of the deep-sea aquatic dinosaur “Reigo” from his first film Deep Sea Monster Reigo, runs rampant in the town of Asakusa! …

It has been over six decades since the battle of Deep Sea Monster Reigo and Battleship Yamato. As global warming worsens, throwing the ecosystem off balance, a disaster approaches Japan. A mysterious, massive creature emerges from the nearby ocean and a fishing boat encounters an ominous deep-sea creature in Tokyo Bay. Then a giant monster “Raiga” lands in Asakusa, Tokyo! The Taito Guard is called out at the request of the government, and a cut-throat battle beyond all imagination begins… (Taito International Comedy Film Festival)

Just like in Minoru Kawasaki's 2008 film, "Monster X Strikes Back: Attack the G8 Summit!", "Raiga" is part monster movie, part comedy, that lampoons the giant monster genre, while also paying a respectful homage to it.

I was actually half tempted to add, 'music video' to that description, due to the fact that director Shinpei Hayashiya spent almost as much time promoting the singing careers of his three young leading ladies, Enosawa Manami, Urata Mao and Oriyama Miyu, as he did for his monster movie.

For those of you who don't know, "Raiga, The Monster From The Deep Sea" is actually a sequel to Hayashiya's 2005 film, "Deep Sea Monster Reigo", which was set during World War II and told the story Japanese battleship Yamato and it's confrontation with a giant monster in the remote Pacific.

As you have probably gathered, the events in "Raiga" take place in modern times.

No word yet on any possible DVD release for "Raiga, The Monster From The Deep" here in America.

Here is the website for the Japanese DVD - http://www.starchild.co.jp/special/raiga/

Here are the photos, plus the films trailer, now with English subtitles:

See Also: New Photos And Interviews From The Premiere Of Deep Sea Monster Raiga / Are There Four Monsters In Deep Sea Monster Raiga? / The First Music Single From Deep Sea Monster Raiga To Be Released June 27th / New Deep Sea Monster Raiga Photos And PR Events / The New Trailer And Photos For Deep Sea Monster Raiga / Deep Sea Monster Raiga - A Tale Of Toys And Teeth / New Photos From The Set Of Deep Sea Monster Raiga / The First Trailer For Deep Sea Monster Raiga