Previous Indie Kaiju Films

So the reason I’m making this post is to list some of the previous Kaiju Features made independently or with very tight budgets. These are from the past decade, and also are some of the most well-known films.

1)  Deep Sea Monster Reigo (2005)

Set during WWII, the battleship Yamamoto faces several under sea monsters, including the legendary monster Reigo. A naval film meets the child of Godzilla and Jaws. Directed and Produced by Shinpei Hayashiya, and with the help of veteran SPFX artist Keita Amemiya.

Deep Sea Monster Reigo Trailer

There was also a sequel, Deep Sea Monster Raiga (2009)

2)      The Monster X Strikes Back: Attack the G8 Summit (2008)

A comedy featuring the monster Guilala, who attacks Japan during an important G8 featuring many of the world’s powers. Directed by Minoru Kawasaki, this film depicts the famous monster from “The X From Outer Space” wrecking Japan as several world leaders attempt to defeat it. Released by Shochiku.

3)      Monsters (2010)

The feature film debut by Gareth Edwards (the director of the upcoming Godzilla film), this film brought him to the attention of Legendary Pictures. The film tells the story of a man and a woman who trek through a quarantined Mexico swarming with alien monsters. Released by Magnet Releasing.

Also, a sequel Monsters: Dark Continent is in the works and coming out soon.

4)      Trollhunter (2010)

A Norwegian fictional found footage film, about several University students who follow a man who professes to hunt and track Trolls to keep them under control. The film blends dark fantasy with sci-fi creatures, which in fact makes it an interesting take on the kaiju genre.

So there you have a few well known examples, but of course there are many others out there. If there are some you believe I’ve overlooked, leave a comment, and I might discuss it. Also, I will make a post about Independent short films as well, so I will cover those as well. Anyways, take it easy everyone, and stay tuned for more!