#honda metropolitan

[shummthechumm]

car shopping while everything is inflated to hell is torture actually. do i drop 5k on a well-used car and risk getting shackled to a bad vehicle; or do i take several more months to save up 10k (at minimum) to get a less-well-used car but also restricting my university progression because my campus is 40+ minutes away + im not paying for a dorm

[ajleeblog]

(via The 2025 Honda Metropolitan: A Stylish Companion for Urban Commuting)

[uwabbittuwabbit]

if we wanted to do discourse on motogp and catholicism at least we should do it the fun way

sources (pt 1): Reliquary, Wikipedia // Helmet, Instagram // Skull, Wikipedia // Glove, Twitter // Saint Teresa, El Confidencial // Relic, Wikipedia // Lorenzo Finger, Asphalt & Rubber // Hand of John, Facebook //Marquez Arm, Instagram // Arm of Jude, The Apostle of the Impossible // Christus on the Cross with Mary and St John, Wikipedia // Stigmata, Wikipedia // Quartararo Scar, Twitter // Stigmata, Zenit // Pedrosa Surgery, Honda Racing Corporation // Pedrosa Collarbone, Cycle News // Arm Pump, MotoGP // Marquez Surgery, MotoGP // Marquez Arm (2), Motorcycle Sports // Lorenzo in Water, FNCounter.com // Lorenzo in Water (2), TuttoMotoriWeb // Christ Walking On the Sea, Wikipedia //

pt 2: //Stained Glass, flickr // Ouroboros, Google // Valencia, Reddit // Crown of Thorns, Wikipedia // Christ Falling On the Way to Calvary, Wikipedia // Marquez Crash, MotoriOnline // Crown of Thorns, Twitter // Lorenzo Collarbone, Eurosport // Bezzechi Collarbone, motorsport.com // Marquez Sprint, MotorSportMagazin.com // Marquez Sprint (2), Honda Racing Corporation // Last Supper, Wikipedia // Ghent Altarpiece, The Guardian // The Crucifixion, The Metropolitan Musuem of Art //

pt 3: // Gestures, Aleteia // Rossi Conference, Road Racing World & Motorcycle Technology // Rossi Conference, Visordown // The Last Supper, Wikipedia // 2017 Aragon Press Conference, Twitter // 2018 Misano Press Conference, YouTube // The Taking of Christ, Wikipedia //Parc Ferme, motorsport.com // The Kiss of Judas, Wikipedia // Marquez on Rossi, Crash.net // Marquez on Rossi (2), Crash.net // Marquez Rossi Handshake, speedcafe.net // Marquez Rossi Handshake (2), Australian Motorcycle News // Creation of Adam, Wikipedia // Rossi Refuses Handshake, motorsport.com // 2014 Sepang, AutoRacing1.com // 2018 Argentina, YouTube // The Fallen Angel, Wikipedia // 2014 Qatar, MotoGP // 2015 Sepang, motorsport.com // Pieta, Daily Art Magazine // Stained Glass, Wikipedia // Ouroboros, tvtropes //

[yanderederee]

Boys on Bikes

A discussion piece about motorcycles!

Also note; these Motorcycles were Modified in the anime, since that’s what you did in a Biker Gang lol. The individuality of these loud modifications made them one-of-a-kind bikes! So stuff like Kazutora’s Windshield and Baji’s second-seater are not apart of the original design.

More Discussion Pieces here: BozosokuCulture

-ˋˏ✄┈┈┈┈

Mikey - Honda: CB250t, Hawk (1978) / Scooter**

Draken - Kawasaki: Zephyr 400 (1989)

Baji - Suzuki: GSX250e (1984)

Kazutora - Kawasaki: KH400, Rocket (1976-80)

Mitsuya - Suzuki GSX400FS, Impulse (1982) *my personal favorite

Now listen.

There is something to be said about Mikey’s scooter.

This Scooter is fucking impossible to find. So much so I’m questioning it’s existence**.

(I also really like how Draken confirmed that most of the guys got their Bikes via Hand-me-down or through connections by their Senpai’s lol) / Besides Baji? Who I think found his.

** Honda came out with a lot of ‘scooter types’ in the early 2000’s, but nothing for the Hawk models.

I found this really hidden away Giorno 50cc model from 1995, and Japan did remodel them 2011-2022 era, so maybe this was the inspiration? But if you look at the Nose the Headlight of MIKEY’S Scooter, they closely resemble the Elite Model more.

Like ?? The Elite and Metropolitan models are the closest I could actually find.

Interesting.

—-…

I was raised around the Harley Davidson mechanic shops my dad owned/worked at, I wish I remembered which one he’d drive me around on as a kid, but we’re no longer close.

I could make a Part2 to this too lmao..

[beardedmrbean]

Rep. Henry Cuellar (D-Texas) was carjacked at gunpoint Monday outside his Washington, DC, apartment building, according to his office. 

The 68-year-old south Texas lawmaker was unharmed during the incident in DC’s trendy Navy Yard neighborhood at approximately 9:32 p.m., according to DC’s Metropolitan Police Department. 

“As Congressman Cuellar was parking his car this evening, three armed assailants approached the congressman and stole his vehicle,” Cuellar’s chief of staff Jacob Hochberg told The Post.

“Luckily, he was not harmed and is working with local law enforcement. Thank you to Metro PD and Capitol Police for their swift action and for recovering the congressman’s vehicle.”

Cuellar was reportedly outside “a dorm building in which dozens” of House members live, according to Axios reporter Andrew Solender, who cited a group chat used by the lawmakers who occupy the building. 

Three men reportedly held guns to Cuellar’s head as they took his phone and vehicle, which was parked on the street, according to the group chat. 

An MPD crime alert on the incident says police are on the lookout for “three black males wearing all black clothing” who made off with the congressman’s white Honda with Texas tags. 

The alert warns the public to “not take action” but instead call 911 if the vehicle or suspects are spotted.

Capitol Police told The Post that the armed carjacking is being investigated by DC police and USCP investigators.  

“Injuries were not reported. Detectives are working to track down the suspects,” a spokesperson for USCP said.

The incident is the latest in a series of violent crimes in the district this year that have affected members of Congress or their staffs. 

In February, Rep. Angie Craig (D-Minn.) was assaulted in the elevator of her northeast DC apartment building by a homeless man with a long rap sheet. She suffered bruises as a result of the attack and got away by tossing her hot morning coffee at the assailant. 

The following month, a staffer for Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.)  was brutally attacked in broad daylight by a knife-wielding assailant in DC, on the same street where Craig was assaulted. 

The staffer, 26-year-old Phillip Todd, suffered serious injuries in the attack, including multiple stab wounds to the head and chest.

In June, a staffer for Rep. Brad Finstad (R-Minn.) was attacked at gunpoint near Nationals Park in Washington, DC, just hours after the conclusion of the annual Congressional Baseball Game. 

That staffer suffered minor injuries in the attack, which occurred in the same neighborhood where Cuellar was carjacked. 

To date, 750 carjackings have been reported in DC this year alone, with 75% involving a firearm. 

That is a 115% increase in the number of carjackings from this time last year, according to DC police crime statistics.

[thealmightyemprex]

Hey wanna do a King Kongathon?Internet archive has ya covered

So I am doing a King Kong marathon for Thanksgiving and hey if you wanna do one too or just havent seen any of the Kings filmography here are a few

We have the toho films starting with King Kong vs Godzilla,in both Japanese

And the English version

As well as the highly underrated King Kong Escapes in both english

and Japanese

There is also the much darker 1976 King Kong

Though if in the mood for something softer ya have the direct sequel to the 1933 classic Son of Kong

You also have Mighty Joe Young ,done by the same team as the original Kong and I see it as a sister film

And of course the original classic King Kong from 1933

@the-blue-fairie @angelixgutz @amalthea9 @princesssarisa @filmcityworld1 @metropolitan-mutant-of-ark @themousefromfantasyland @marquisedemasque @ariel-seagull-wings

[takurohtoyama]

Tokyo Arts and Space Annual Report 2022

トーキョーアーツアンドスペース アニュアル 2022

編集　杉本勝彦、トーキョーアーツアンドスペース(市川亜木子、関 朝子、武智あさぎ)

インタビュー　内田伸一 翻訳　ロバート・リード(プロフィールを除く)、トーキョーアーツアンドスペース

インタビュー撮影　トヤマタクロウ

撮影　大野隆介、加藤 健、佐藤 基、髙橋健治、トヤマタクロウ、中川 周、丸尾隆一、 トーキョーアーツアンドスペース

デザイン　加瀬 透、本田千尋 印刷　株式会社シナノパブリッシングプレス 発行　公益財団法人東京都歴史文化財団東京都現代美術館　トーキョーアーツアンドスペース事業課　東京都江東区三好4-1-1

発行日　2023年6 月16日

非売品・転売禁止

Tokyo Arts and Space Annual Report 2022

Editors　SUGIMOTO Katsuhiko, Tokyo Arts and Space (ICHIKAWA Akiko, SEKI Asako, TAKECHI Asagi)

Interviewer　UCHIDA Shinichi

Translation　Robert REED (except artist profiles), Tokyo Arts and Space

Interview Photos　TOYAMA Takuroh

Photos　KATO Ken, MARUO Ryuichi, OHNO Ryusuke, SATO Motoi, TAKAHASHI Kenji, TOYAMA Takuroh, NAKAGAWA Shu, Tokyo Arts and Space

Design　KASE Toru, HONDA Chihiro

Printing　SHINANO PUBLISHING PRESS CO., LTD

Published by Tokyo Arts and Space, Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo, Tokyo Metropolitan Foundation for History and Culture 4-1-1 Miyoshi, Koto-ku, Tokyo Publication Date: June 16, 2023

The sale or resale of this publication is strictly prohibited.

©2023 Tokyo Arts and Space, Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo, Tokyo Metropolitan Foundation for History and Culture

お問い合わせ|Inquiries

contact@tokyoartsandspace.jp

URL www.tokyoartsandspace.jp/ Facebook Tokyo Arts and Space Twitter [日本語] @tokas_ jp [English] @tokas_en

[car-hamro]

Hyundai Xcent: A Comprehensive Overview of a Versatile Compact Sedan

Introduction

The Hyundai Xcent, a popular compact sedan in the Indian automotive market, has garnered a significant following due to its blend of style, comfort, and practicality. Introduced as a sub-4-meter sedan, the Xcent was created to meet the demands of metropolitan drivers seeking a vehicle with excellent fuel efficiency, a spacious cabin, and modern features, all wrapped in a stylish package. This piece will examine in detail the Hyundai Xcent, exploring its design, performance, features, safety, and explanations for why it is still the best option among compact sedans.

The Hyundai Xcent was launched in 2014 as a sedan variant of the popular Hyundai Grand i10 hatchback. It quickly became a strong contender in the compact sedan segment, competing with models like the Maruti Suzuki Dzire, Honda Amaze, and Tata Zest. Hyundai’s reputation for building reliable and feature-rich vehicles was crucial to the Xcent’s success.

Design and Exterior Features

One of the key selling points of the Hyundai Xcent is its well-thought-out design. The front fascia is adorned with Hyundai’s signature hexagonal grille, flanked by stylish swept-back headlamps. The chrome accents on the grille and the LED DRLs (Daytime Running Lights) add a touch of sophistication to the overall look.

The alloy wheels, body-colored ORVMs (Outside Rear View Mirrors) with integrated turn indicators, and a sculpted rear with wrap-around tail lamps contribute to the car’s modern and dynamic appearance.

Interior Comfort and Features

Step inside the Hyundai Xcent, and you’ll be greeted by a well-appointed cabin that exudes comfort and quality. The interior layout is designed with ergonomics, ensuring that all controls are easily accessible to the driver. The dual-tone color scheme and premium materials create an inviting and pleasant environment.

The well-cushioned seats provide good support, making long drives more enjoyable. The rear seat has a center armrest and cup holders, adding convenience to passengers.

The Hyundai Xcent is packed with modern amenities and features. One of the infotainment system’s touchscreen displays has Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and voice recognition. The system makes driving more enjoyable overall and is easy to use. Additionally, the car comes equipped with automatic climate control, steering-mounted audio controls, rear AC vents, and power windows, further enhancing the comfort and convenience of occupants.

Performance and Engine Options

The Hyundai Xcent has petrol and diesel engine options, catering to different driving preferences. The 1.2-liter gasoline version has a Kappa Dual VTVT engine, which delivers 83 PS and 114 Nm of torque. This engine is known for its smooth and refined performance, making it ideal for city driving.

The Hyundai Xcent’s suspension is tuned for comfort, quickly absorbing road imperfections. The car’s compact dimensions and responsive steering make navigating through congested city streets easy, while the engine’s power delivery ensures a smooth and hassle-free driving experience.

Fuel Efficiency

Fuel economy is among the essential elements buyers consider when choosing a compact sedan, and the Hyundai Xcent does not disappoint. The gasoline version has a fantastic range of approximately 19.1 km/l, while the diesel variant boasts a fuel efficiency of approximately 25.4 km/l. These figures make the Xcent an economical choice for daily commuting and long-distance travel, further solidifying its position as a practical and budget-friendly vehicle.

Safety Features

Hyundai prioritizes safety, and the Xcent is fitted with several safety measures to guarantee the well-being of its occupants. The car has dual front airbags as standard across all variants, providing essential protection during a collision. Higher variants offer features like ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) with EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), rear parking sensors, and a rearview camera, enhancing the vehicle’s overall safety.

The Xcent’s body structure is designed with high-strength steel, which improves crashworthiness and passenger protection. The car also features impact-sensing auto door unlock, a rear defogger, central locking, and child safety locks, making it a secure and family-friendly vehicle.

For More Details, Click Here

[bsauto9876-5]

Activa Accessories for Safety and Comfort

A Honda Activa scooter is a lifestyle choice that offers convenience, fuel efficiency, and dependable performance, going beyond simple transportation. Millions of riders, including those who ride for fun and everyday commuting, have chosen this scooter because of its easy handling and adaptable design, particularly in the case of the well-liked Activa Black model. The Activa provides passengers with unmatched convenience as it navigates through congested metropolitan streets with ease thanks to its small design. Its outstanding fuel efficiency is another feature that sets it apart from the competition and makes long-distance driving without many stops at gas stations an affordable option for daily travel.

1. Crash Guard Black

A crash guard, one of the most important Activa accessories, offers vital protection in the event of falls, mishaps, or small collisions. This is particularly crucial if you wish to prevent expensive damages or serious harm from an accident involving an Activa. The Black crash guard for the Honda Activa preserves the scooter's elegant appearance while providing strong protection.

Benefits:

Impact Protection: Minimizes repair costs by protecting the scooter’s body from dents and scratches, especially in the event of an accident.

Balance: Improves stability while riding on uneven surfaces or taking sharp turns.

Durability: Crafted from rust-resistant material, the black crash guard is built to last​.

2. Baby Seat for Scooters

For riders who frequently travel with children, a baby seat is one of the most vital Activa accessories for safety. This seat ensures your child is securely seated during rides, reducing the risk of accidents or falls.

Benefits:

Child Safety: Prevents accidental slips or falls, especially during sudden stops or maneuvers.

Comfort: Padded seating offers a smooth ride for children, even on bumpy roads.

Peace of Mind: Allows parents to ride confidently, knowing their child is safe and secure.

Conclusion

The appropriate scooter accessories can significantly improve your comfort and safety when riding. The best accessories to enhance your riding experience are the Crash Guard, Baby Seat, Univercel Backrest, Premium Seat Cover, and Grip Covers. These add-ons not only shield you and your scooter from mishaps like an Activa collision, but they also guarantee a more pleasurable and pleasant ride—whether you're traveling farther or just taking short journeys. 

Learn more about activa accessories:

https://bsautoaccessories.com/top-activa-accessories/

[gujarattaxi]

Welcome to Gujarat Taxi, the fastest growing online car rental booking and taxi hiring Service Company in India, committed to provide door-to-door best car rental services to the travelers. We provide local travel, out station car rental, long term car rental, corporate cab booking and various other tour packages in more than 100 metropolitan and small cities of India. Our aim is to provide the world class car rental service to the travelers at an affordable price along with utmost efficiency and comfort. Gujarat Taxi provides premium class railway transfers and airport transfers for pick up and drop facilities. We have various types of cab such as the Crysta, Swift Dzire, Toyota, Honda, Tavera ECS etc. We endeavor to constantly improve your car rental experience with our company. Wherever you are traveling in India you're searching for a car rental stop at Gujarat Taxi.

[motorgroup]

Why South Morang is the Go-To Spot for Car Dealerships

South Morang, a vibrant suburb located in Melbourne’s northern region, has become a hub for car enthusiasts and prospective buyers alike. The area is home to a wide range of car dealerships, offering everything from brand-new vehicles to high-quality used cars. But what makes South Morang stand out as the go-to spot for car dealerships? Let’s delve into the factors that contribute to its growing reputation in the automotive market.

Strategic Location and Accessibility

One of the key reasons South Morang has become a prime location for car dealerships is its strategic positioning within Melbourne’s northern suburbs. The suburb is easily accessible via major roads such as Plenty Road and the Metropolitan Ring Road, making it a convenient destination for buyers from across Melbourne. Whether you’re coming from the city or the outer suburbs, South Morang’s central location ensures a smooth and hassle-free journey.

In addition to its road accessibility, South Morang is well-served by public transport, including the South Morang train station and several bus routes. This connectivity makes it easier for customers to reach the dealerships without relying solely on cars, broadening the potential customer base.

Diverse Range of Dealerships

South Morang boasts a diverse array of car dealerships, catering to a wide range of preferences and budgets. Whether you’re in the market for a brand-new luxury vehicle or a reliable, budget-friendly used car, you’ll find plenty of options in South Morang.

The suburb is home to several well-established dealerships representing leading automotive brands such as Toyota, Ford, Mazda, Nissan, and Honda. These dealerships offer the latest models, complete with cutting-edge technology and advanced safety features. For buyers looking for something more premium, South Morang also hosts dealerships specializing in luxury brands like BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi.

For those interested in used cars, South Morang offers a wealth of options. Many dealerships in the area have a strong focus on certified pre-owned vehicles, ensuring that buyers receive high-quality cars that have been thoroughly inspected and come with warranties. This focus on quality and reliability has earned South Morang’s dealerships a reputation for trustworthiness, making it a popular choice for used car buyers.

Competitive Pricing and Attractive Deals

Another factor that draws customers to  Car Dealerships in South Morangs is the competitive pricing and attractive deals on offer. The concentration of dealerships in the area has led to healthy competition, resulting in better prices and incentives for buyers. Whether it’s seasonal discounts, trade-in offers, or financing options, South Morang dealerships are known for providing excellent value.

This competitive environment also means that dealerships are more likely to go the extra mile in terms of customer service. From personalized buying experiences to after-sales support, customers can expect a high level of care and attention when purchasing a vehicle in South Morang.

Comprehensive Services Under One Roof

South Morang’s car dealerships offer more than just a wide selection of vehicles; they provide a comprehensive range of services that cater to all aspects of car ownership. Many dealerships in the area have integrated service centers, offering everything from routine maintenance and repairs to specialized services like detailing and customization.

This one-stop-shop approach is highly convenient for car owners, allowing them to handle all their automotive needs in one place. Whether you need a quick oil change, a major repair, or are interested in upgrading your vehicle’s features, South Morang’s dealerships have you covered.

Furthermore, many dealerships in South Morang offer finance and insurance services, making the car-buying process smoother and more straightforward. Customers can explore various financing options, get pre-approved for loans, and even purchase insurance, all within the dealership’s premises.

Strong Community Presence and Reputation

South Morang’s car dealerships have built a strong presence within the local community, further cementing the suburb’s reputation as a top automotive destination. Many dealerships actively engage with the community through sponsorships, local events, and partnerships with nearby businesses. This involvement helps to foster a sense of trust and loyalty among customers, who are more likely to return for future purchases or recommend the dealerships to friends and family.

The positive word-of-mouth and strong online reviews that South Morang’s dealerships consistently receive are a testament to their commitment to customer satisfaction. This reputation has spread beyond the local community, attracting buyers from other parts of Melbourne and even regional areas.

Future Growth and Development

Looking ahead, South Morang is poised for continued growth and development, which will likely enhance its appeal as a car dealership hotspot. The ongoing infrastructure projects in the area, including road upgrades and the extension of public transport services, will further improve accessibility and convenience for customers.

Additionally, the increasing population in Melbourne’s northern suburbs is expected to drive demand for cars, which in turn will lead to more dealerships and services being established in South Morang. This growth will not only benefit buyers but also contribute to the overall economic development of the area.

Conclusion

South Morang has firmly established itself as the go-to spot for car dealerships in Melbourne’s northern suburbs. Its strategic location, diverse range of dealerships, competitive pricing, comprehensive services, and strong community presence all contribute to its growing reputation in the automotive market. Whether you’re in the market for a new or used vehicle, South Morang offers an unbeatable car-buying experience, making it the ideal destination for your next vehicle purchase

[twittercomfrnklin2001-blog]

Gojira

If you only know GODZILLA from the mangled version shown in the U.S. or its increasingly juvenile sequels, then, if I may be brutally frank (I’m Frank, goddamn it!), you don’t know GODZILLA. Ishiro Honda’s GOJIRA (1954, TCM, Max, Plex, Tubi, YouTube) may have started out as just a monster movie, a blatant rip-off of THE BEAST FROM 20,000 FATHOMS (1953),but in Honda’s hands it rose to metaphoric levels as a commentary on a world at the mercy of unfettered nuclear testing. The film also bears numerous echoes of the U.S.’ firebombing of Tokyo and the dropping of the A bomb on Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

The story is familiar and mostly follows what would become the tried-and-true giant monster formula. Attacks in isolated areas (here the fishing lanes near the fictional Odo Island) lead to the discovery of a giant critter that moves on to a major metropolitan area (Tokyo) until someone can figure out a way to get rid of it. But Honda, who co-wrote the screenplay starts it all with the sinking of a fishing boat that mirrors the then-recent plight of a boat that had sailed too near the U.S. nuclear testing grounds in the Marshall Islands. When word of the monster’s appearance spreads, there’s a brief shot of three people on a train lamenting that they may have to evacuate again. The woman in the group even mentions that she had barely avoided being caught in the bombing of Nagasaki. Later, she and one of the men are on the party boat that first sights Godzilla in Tokyo Bay. Her face is one of the film’s most telling expressions of horror. There are frequent references to radiation and its perils, and the newly developed weapon that could save them all has the potential to destroy humanity, much like the atomic bomb that helped end World War II.

There are flaws of course, Some of the mattes of Godzilla’s attacks are clumsy. At one point you can see the wires moving his tail around. And I could do with less of the romantic triangle that figures into the denouement (though the rejected suitor played by Akihiko Hirata is quite good). But without the Raymond Burr narration added to the American version, you can tell what a good storyteller Honda is. The action moves along quickly until almost the end, with information conveyed through newspaper headlines and radio and TV broadcasts. Honda is also a master of montage who clearly learned his lessons from Sergei Eisenstein. Godzilla’s attacks are conveyed through their effects on repeated characters like the broadcast journalists reporting from a TV tower that eventually becomes one of the monster’s targets. There are also shots of a woman huddled near a building with her children. As Godzilla approaches, she tells them, “We’re going to join Daddy! We’ll be where Daddy is soon!” It’s a devastating image of wartime destruction you won’t find in your run-of-the-mill monster movie.

[jimtrenarychevrolet]

Let’s look at the 2024 Honda Metropolitan today! This unit has a Programmed Fuel Injection 49cc Liquid Cooled engine. Everything you would expect from Honda! The Metro also comes with a V-Matic Automatic transmission, 22 Liters under seat storage and a combined braking system! Come to Jim Trenary Motorsports today to check out this EURO Style Scooter!

[acrosstheuniverse02]

Eve Arnold, fotografa statunitense (1912-2012). Prima free lance dell'agenzia Magnum Photos

[*] Gala Opening, Metropolitan Opera, New York, 1950

[*] During the Civil Rights movement in America, two children sit next to one another at a party to introduce mixed schools. Virginia, USA. 1958.

[*] Marlene Dietrich - NY (1952)

[*] Andy Warhol - NY (1964)

# [*] CUBA. Bahia Honda. Fisherman and family. Island girl. (1954)

[*] Ragazza in un bar nel quartiere a luci rosse - L'Avana, Cuba (1954)

# [*] Marilyn Monroe, studio sessions - Los Angeles (1960)

Robert Penn [*] Eve Arnold sul set del film "Becket e il suo Re" (1963)

https://pleasurephotoroom.files.wordpress.com/2012/10/

https://www.magnumphotos.com/photographer/eve-arnold/

https://periskkop.com/

https://www.pinterest.it/

# https://www.magnumphotos.com/arts-culture/society-arts-culture/

https://corallorosso.tumblr.com/

https://www.vogue.it/galleries/gait22428

[kaiju-film-liv]

The Origins of Kaiju Films

Welcome to my five-part analysis of the Kaiju genre. Kaiju films have always fascinated me for their engaging special effects and compelling social commentary.

Kaiju which roughly translates to “strange monster” is often characterized by massive animalistic creatures wreaking havoc on metropolitan areas. Kaiju are often associated with creatures like Godzilla and Mothra but the concept has existed for much longer. In Japanese folklore large creatures or animalistic spirits have existed for quite a long time. The first use of Kaiju in film was not Godzilla (1954) it was actually a translation for the American film The Beast from 20,000 Fathoms (1953) which used the term on its Japanese poster as a synonym for monster. Godzilla (1954) was the first film to use it to describe the monster itself. 

Godzilla (1954) set the tropes by which the Kaiju genre would become synonymous with. The massive monsters, the destruction of cities, the political overtones in the thematics of the film. All three of these aspects would become common place in Kaiju films going forward.

 The film was written and directed by Ishirô Honda with co-writers Takeo Murata and Shigeru Kayama. The film's special effects were done by Eiji Tsuburaya. The company behind the film Tōhō Motion Picture Company was the go-to production company for Japan during WWII but post-war due to labor disputes it began to falter. The success of Godzilla and the branding around it has maintained the company into the modern era.

Ishirô Honda from a young age had a desire to work in film but was drafted into the military for eight years right when his film career began. While in the war between Japan and China, he was a prisoner of war. When he returned to Japan he also saw the ruins of Hiroshima. These experiences informed the political messaging in his films.

The criterion article “Godzilla’s Conscience: The Monstrous Humanism of Ishiro Honda” written by Steve Ryfle when speaking of Ishirô Honda’s shaping of the Kaiju genre stated “Other directors had begged off the project, believing it was ridiculous, and that it would likely end up a laughingstock. But to Honda, this was no joke… Honda created a monochrome masterpiece of sci-fi horror punctuated by extensive destruction sequences that elicited real-life fears of nuclear terror. Images of Tokyo smoldering in the wake of the monster, of irradiated civilians setting off Geiger counters, and of the Japanese military overmatched by the seemingly indestructible foe helped turn Honda’s entertainment spectacle into a cautionary tale about the atomic power that had not long ago been unleashed at Hiroshima and Nagasaki.”

The article also mentions the success of Honda’s films globally “Honda’s films were distributed around the world more widely than those of any other Japanese filmmaker prior to Hayao Miyazaki. In addition to having been embedded in popular culture for decades”

Ishirô Honda would continue to work on Toho Kaiju films for years after Godzilla (1954). He directed Rodan (1956), The Mysterians (1957), Mothra (1961), and Destroy All Monsters (1968). He was also a long-time friend of Director Akira Kurosawa helping him on films like Stray Dog (1949), Kagemusha: The Shadow Warrior (1980), and Ran (1985).

https://hivemind.modlangs.gatech.edu/non-fiction/kaiju-x-kami/