Gamera vs. Viras (1968) Review in 2025
Gamera vs. Viras is a 1968 Japanese kaiju film that pits the giant turtle Gamera against the alien creature Viras. The movie is a fun and action-packed ride, but it's not without its flaws.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
This movie is suitable for children, but parental discretion is advised due to some intense scenes.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is worth watching for fans of kaiju films and Japanese cinema. However, it's not a must-see, and viewers may find it a bit dated and cheesy.
Spoiler Alert!
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The movie starts with Gamera, a giant turtle, being awakened from its slumber by the sound of a spaceship landing on Earth. As Gamera emerges from the ocean, it's confronted by Viras, an alien creature that's determined to destroy the planet. The two engage in an epic battle, with Gamera using its powerful strength and Viras using its advanced technology to try and outmaneuver its opponent.
Review Details
story7.00/10
The story is simple and predictable, but it's engaging enough to keep viewers interested. The pacing is a bit slow, but the action scenes are well-choreographed and exciting.
acting5.00/10
The acting is not great, but it's not terrible either. The actors do their best with the material they're given, but they're not memorable.
characters6.00/10
The characters are not well-developed, but they're likable enough. Gamera is the clear standout, with its powerful strength and heroic personality.
direction7.00/10
The direction is solid, with some nice camera angles and compositions. The special effects are a bit dated, but they're still impressive for a 1968 film.
cinematography8.00/10
The cinematography is excellent, with some beautiful shots of the ocean and the city. The color palette is vibrant and eye-catching.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Gamera vs. Viras is a fun and action-packed ride, with some impressive special effects and a memorable villain. The movie is a great example of Japanese kaiju cinema, and it's a must-see for fans of the genre.
Cons
The movie is a bit slow-paced, and the characters are not well-developed. The acting is not great, and the special effects are a bit dated.
Notable Quotes
"Gamera: 'I am the guardian of the Earth! I will protect it from harm!'"
"Viras: 'You are no match for me, Gamera! I will destroy you and your precious Earth!'"
