Godzilla has introduced generations around the world to Japan, its culture, and its society. The character has also evolved from a destroyer in its early days to become a savior and hero. Interestingly, Godzilla has a markedly different depiction in Japanese films versus American films. This program will also focus on how Godzilla movies address issues of environmental challenges, diseases and pandemics, political leadership, and natural disasters.
Join us for a discussion on why international audiences continue to flock to Godzilla film screenings, why Godzilla is important in today’s world, and what we can learn from this iconic monster.
Date and Time
Wednesday, December 2, 2020
6:00 PM Dallas/4:00 PM Los Angeles
Thursday, December 3, 2020
9:00 AM Japan
Steve Ryfle – Film journalist, co-author of Ishiro Honda: A Life in Film from Godzilla to Kurosawa and author of Godzilla vs. The World (forthcoming)
Bill Tsutsui– Edwin O. Reischauer Distinguished Professor of Japanese Studies at Harvard University and author of Godzilla on My Mind
Moderator
Ryan James Barr – Program and Development Coordinator, Japan-America Society of Dallas/Fort Worth
Japan-America Society of Dallas/Fort Worth fall 2020 online programs are supported by these generous sponsors. If you would like to contribute, please contact JASDFW Executive Director Paul Pass at paul.pass@jasdfw.org.