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Gappa the Triphibian Monsters (1967) on IMDb

Gappa: The Triphibian Monster (1967) – A Forgotten Gem of the Kaiju Genre

A Year in Production…GIGANTIC GAPPA IS HERE!

Gappa: The Triphibian Monster (also known as Gappa: The Colossal Beast or Monster from a Prehistoric Planet) is a Japanese kaiju film from the 1960s that has often been overshadowed by the likes of Godzilla and Gamera. However, this lesser-known entry in the genre is a fun and entertaining film in its own right, with impressive special effects, an interesting story, and unique monsters that make it a worthy addition to any kaiju fan’s collection.

The film follows a group of scientists and reporters who travel to an uncharted island in the Pacific Ocean in search of a story. Upon arrival, they discover a race of primitive people who worship a giant bird-like creature called Gappa. However, when the scientists accidentally capture a baby, the adult monsters become angry and begin attacking the human settlements on the island.

One of the standout features of the film is its special effects. While not as polished as some of the bigger-budget kaiju films of the era, the effects work in this film is still impressive, particularly given its relatively low budget. The Kaiju themselves are unique and interesting, with a mix of bird and reptile features that set them apart from the more familiar kaiju like Godzilla and King Kong.

The story of the film is also engaging, with themes of human greed and the consequences of meddling with nature. The film’s human characters are a mix of likable heroes and less sympathetic villains, which adds some complexity to the plot. The pacing of the film is also well-done, with a good balance of action and character development.

Another strength of the movie is its soundtrack. The film’s main theme is a catchy and memorable tune that is sure to stick in your head long after the credits roll. The sound effects are also effective, particularly during the climactic battle between the Gappa and the military forces sent to stop them.

In conclusion, Gappa: The Triphibian Monster may not be as well-known as some of its kaiju counterparts, but it is a fun and entertaining film that deserves more recognition. Its unique monsters, engaging story, and impressive special effects make it a must-see for any fan of the genre.

This is a poster for Daikyojū Gappa. The poster art copyright is believed to belong to Nikkatsu. Gappa, The Triphibian Monster
This is a poster for Daikyojū Gappa. The poster art copyright is believed to belong to Nikkatsu.

Cast

  • Tamio Kawachi as Hiroshi Kurosaki
  • Yoko Yamamoto as Itoko Koyanagi
  • Yuji Okada as Daize Tonoka
  • Kōji Wada as Mashida
  • Tatsuya Fuji as George Inoue
  • Keisuke Inoue as Mr. Funazu, Magazine owner
  • Zenji Yamada as Captain of the Kamome-Maru
  • Bumon Koto as Chief of Obelisk Island
  • Kôtarô Sugie as Reporter #1
  • Saburô Hiromatsu as Hosoda
  • Binnosuke Nagao as Commander Riku
  • Masaru Kamiyama as Professor
  • Kokan Katsura as Saburo Hayashi
  • Shirô Oshimi as Oyama
  • Yoko Oyagi as Aihara
  • Sanpei Mine as Islander #1
  • Takashi Koshiba as Reporter #2
  • Kensuke Tamai as Islander #2
  • Minoru Sato as Reporter #3
  • Kiyoshi Matsuoka as Islander #3
  • Hiroshi Itoh as Reporter #4
  • Mike Danine as Petty Officer
  • Ruich Fidancer as Captain of the Sea Angels
  • Paul Scheman as Professor McDonald
  • Hiroshita Atami and Takashi Konagaias as Gappa (male)
  • Ken Misugi and Shiro Tonami as Gappa (female)
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