TM & © TOHO CO., LTD., © Special Effects DNA Production Committee, All photos by Edward L. Holland ()
DNA of Tokusatsu SOS: Godzilla and Mothra Toho Exhibition props and displays at the kaiju centric Tokyo Tower is now open to the public and runs until August 7.
Step back into Godzilla special effects history on the basement floor of Tokyo Tower with artifacts subtly illuminating the cherished Toho monstars and the artisans responsible for these priceless pieces of art.
After an abbreviated 2021 summer show in Yamanashi due to the pandemic, DNA returns with a streamlined and majestic exhibition for fans to enjoy.
This showcase of special effects masters presents offerings from working industry professionals and the DNA committee. Shinichi Wakasa (What to Do with the Dead Kaiju 2022), a suit sculptor on Toho-produced Godzilla films from 1993 to 2004 has a variety of works at the event and will give an afternoon talk show on Saturday July 30.
Working props like the Oxygen Destroyer used against Godzilla (1954) and other artifacts on site honor the Japan science fiction movie industry. See the large flying monster Varan (1958) made by monster modeler Keizo Murase, who is currently working on his swansong production, Brush of the God slated for a 2023 release.
The original Mechagodzilla 2 used in Terror of Mechagodzilla (1975) is preserved in the most pristine state possible with dramatic lighting conveying its epic film proportions.
The mechanical head from Godzilla (1984) developed by the late great, explosive special effects director Teruyoshi Nakano (1935-2022), the twin faeries from Mothra (1961) and more await you.
The exquisite showstopper is a cityscape complete with (Kiryū) Mechagodzilla and Mothra that coincides with the twentieth anniversary of Godzilla Against Mechagodzilla (2002), directed by Masaaki Tezuka.
During a preview on July 19, Tezuka emphasized that Tokyo Tower is an indispensable element of his subsequent film Godzilla: Tokyo S.O.S. (2003) that culminates in a fierce confrontation between Godzilla, Mothra and Kiryū. Regarding the diorama executed by special effects artist, Yusuke Miki, director Tezuka proudly commented, “The charm of the machine dragon is now even more attractive in this setting.”
Aside the diorama, a graceful illustration hangs titled, Mechagodzilla / Shinagawa Fantasy by artist Tokyo Genso, who collaborated with Tezuka on the futuristic design. Much to the ongoing delight of collectors, there are limited toys and more goods commemorating the ninth installment of the DNA of Tokusatsu.
Tokyo Genso illustration (left), TM & © TOHO CO., LTD.
In a year where industry stewards like famed Godzilla actor Akira Takarada (1934-2022) have unfortunately left us, monster movie fans have much to gain from a visit to the symbolic Tokyo Tower to see surviving documents from the Showa and Heisei era movies at the DNA exhibition, which runs through August 7. A mere four days later on August 11, visit the gallery again during its transformation into the DNA of Tokusatsu Heisei Gamera Trilogy Exhibition / Gaos Flying to Tokyo Tower! that runs until August 28.
Check the DNA site for updates, talk show ticketing, online sale items and more at the website.
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Visit the DNA of Tokusatsu Tokyo SOS Godzilla and Mothra exhibition at Tokyo Tower which runs until Aug 7, 2022. The exhibition includes props, artifacts, costumes, and art.
Note: Non-flash photography is allowed. Video photography is strictly prohibited.
Address: Tokyo Tower B1 Tower Hall Chome 4-2-8 Shibakoen, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Hours: Open every day from 11:00 am ~ 7;00 pm with last entry at 6:30 pm
Sponsors: Special Effects DNA Production Committee in cooperation with Yuji Nishimura /M1 and Shinichi Wakasa / MONSTERS INC. / Toho Corporation / Toho Visual Art & Design Co., Ltd. / ADK Emotions Co., Ltd. / TOKYO TOWER Co., Ltd. / M1 Co., Ltd. / Yamamoto Co., Ltd.
Tickets: Available for purchase online at DNA of Tokusatsu.
Free membership registration required for ticket purchases.
Tickets also available from Lawson Tickets.
Please check the precautions regarding ticket sales.
Prices: High school students and older 1,500 yen – tax included 6 to 15-year olds 700 yen – tax included Ticket pair (2) tickets 2,800 – tax included Preschoolers 5 years old and under – FREE and ticketing is required
At admission: You will receive (1) specially designed DNA of Tokusatsu hand fan for this event to keep you cool in the monstrous, summer heat, while supplies last.
Please refrain from visiting the exhibition if you are sick, not feeling well or are a close contact to someone with COVID symptoms to help limit the spread of potential infection. Customers over the age of 3 must wear a mask during the entire visit and are encouraged to practice social distancing. Please do not touch the exhibits or display cases during your visit. Admission is limited to once a day per ticket. Thank you for your understanding.
Check the DNA of Tokusatsu site for the latest information here.
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Edward L. Holland is a photojournalist, a recipient of a community service award from the Cabinet Office of the Government of Japan and was raised on rock ‘n’ roll & Japanese kaiju culture.
