RAGONE HOSTS "ULTRAMAN" 50TH ANNIVERSARY A 12-Episode Marathon Streaming on July 31st!

「ウルトラマン50周年記念マラソン」ストリーミングイベント！


Shout! Factory TV’s ad for this upcoming 50th marathon event.

Celebrate the 50th Anniversary of ULTRAMAN this Sunday! On July 31st at Noon Pacific, I'll be hosting "The Ultraman 50th Anniversary Marathon" on Shout Factory TV. I've hand-picked 12 of my favorite episodes for this live, streaming tribute for my favorite teleseries of all time. In addition to an informative intro on the series, at the top of each episode, I'll share anecdotes, factoids, on the specific stories, and a whole lot more!

This only happens once every 50 years, so be sure to watch all the Ultra action on Shout Factory TV and on Pluto TV (Channel 515) or get the Pluto TV app for tablet and TV devices (Roku, Amazon Fire, Fire TV Stick, Android, Chromecast, and Apple Airplay), mobile (iOS, Android and Amazon), and on the web via your Desktops or Laptops, Macs and PCs. And don't forget to join us in the Ultra Twitter convo with the hashtag #Ultraman — SHUWATCH!

Schedule of Episodes*
12:00 pm – Ultraman 101 with host August Ragone 
12:15 pm – Episode 01: "Ultra Operation No. 1"
12:45 pm – Episode 03: "Science Patrol, Move Out!"
01:10 pm – Episode 07: "The Blue Stone of Villarge"
01:40 pm – Episode 15: "Terror of the Cosmic Rays"
02:10 pm – Episode 16: "Science Patrol Into Space" 
02:40 pm – Episode 17: "Passport to Infinity" 
03:10 pm – Episode 25: "Cyphon, the Mysterious Comet" 
03:40 pm – Episode 27: "Monster Majesty"
04:00 pm – Episode 28: "Human Specimens 5 & 6"
04:30 pm – Episode 33: "The Forbidden Words"
05:00 pm – Episode 36: "Arashi, Don’t Shoot!" 
05:30 pm – Episode 39: "Farewell, Ultraman!"

*Times listed are Pacific time, approximate and subject to change.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, EIJI TSUBURAYA! JULY 10, 1901 - JANUARY 25, 1970

お誕生日おめでとう、円谷英二様！


Eiji Tsuburaya, the Father of Ultraman was born 115 years ago!

The "Father of Japanese Special Visual Effects" was born on July 10, 1901 as Eiichi Tsumuraya in Sukagawa, Fukushima (according to the family register). As with his life, even his date of birth is steeped in legend — official sources have often listed that Eiji Tsuburaya was born on July 7th — a date of fortune in the tradition of Tanabata (meaning "Seven Evenings"), a Japanese star festival derived from the celebration of ancestors, know as Obon. Celebrated on July 7th or August 7th, Tanabata commemorates the meeting of Orihime (Vega) and Hikoboshi (Altair).

Tanabata originated from the Chinese Festival to Plead for Skills (Oi Xi), which came to Japan in the Heian Period (795-1192), and spread to the public during the Edo Period (1603-1867), where it was then combined with Obon traditions. From the Edo Period, girls wished for better sewing and craftsmanship skills, while boys wished for better calligraphy skills, by writing wishes on strips of tanzaku paper, which were hung on bamboo trees. This tradition is still practiced today.

A Japanese claiming they were born on the Tanabata, was akin to an American saying they were born on Independence Day. So, even if Eiji Tsuburaya was not born on July 7th, the myth of being born on the Tanabata certainly was apt, because Tsuburaya would become famous for his multiple artistic and practical skills, which he had in spades — and eventually, the name Tsuburaya would become world-renown with the production of GODZILLA (1954).

For more on the Old Man, order your copy of "Eiji Tsuburaya: Master of Monsters" (Chronicle Books), today!

RAGONE STOMPS INTO CHI-TOWN FOR G-FEST! 22nd Annual Chicago Kaiju Con July 10th-12th

大怪獣ラゴーニ、シカゴの「Gフェス」に現わる！　


This year's incredible G-Fest Charity print by Chris Scalf!

Yes, it's time to return to the the Windy City, Chicago (it's really in Rosemont at the Crown Plaza O'Hare) for the annual event known as "G-Fest", the longest-running all-kaiju event in North America. I've been asked to return as a convention guest, but this year, I've been given the moniker of "Special Guest Presenter" (sure, I'll take that, thank you).

For the 22nd show, I'll be stationed at my booth in the Dealer's Room (between my pals, Bob Eggleton and Michael Cherkowski's "Vampire Robots"), and will be signing copies of the paperback edition of "Eiji Tsuburaya: Master of Monsters" while supplies last — and yes, you can bring your pre-purchased copies (I'll deface those for free, too).

There's going to be a lot happening, especially with the guests from Japan, autograph signings, fan sessions, presentations, panels, a costume contest, vendors and more (see the convention links for details). Here's a list of my whereabouts for the weekend:

—FRIDAY JULY 10, 2015—

2:00 PM - 4:00 PM • Book Signing (Dealer’s Room)

4:30 PM - 5:45 PM • Book Signing (Dealer’s Room)

6:00 PM - 6:30 PM • Opening Ceremonies (Ballroom 2)

6:45 PM - 7:00 PM • Book Signing (Dealer’s Room)

—SATURDAY JULY 11, 2015—

10:00 AM - 11:45 PM • Book Signing (Dealer’s Room)

12:00 PM - 1:00 PM • “50 Years of Gamera” (Ballroom 2)

1:45 PM - 2:45 PM • Book Signing (Dealer’s Room)

3:00 PM - 5:00 PM • “Monster Zero” Live!” (Ballroom 2)

5:15 PM - 7:00 PM • Book Signing (Dealer’s Room)

—SUNDAY JULY 12, 2015—

10:00 AM - 12:30 PM • Book Signing (Dealer’s Room)

1:00 PM - 2:30 PM • Awards Luncheon (Ballroom 1)

2:45 PM - 4:00 PM • Book Signing (Dealer’s Room)

Hope to see some of you in Chicago for this year's crazy kaiju convention!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, EIJI TSUBURAYA! JULY 10, 1901 - JANUARY 25, 1970

お誕生日おめでとう、円谷英二様！


Goofing around on the set of FRANKENSTEIN VS. BARAGON (1965).

The “Father of Japanese Special Visual Effects” was born on July 10, 1901 as Eiichi Tsuburaya in the town of Sukagawa, Fukushima. As with his life, even his date of birth is steeped in legend — official sources have often listed that Eiji Tsuburaya was born on July 7th — a date of fortune in the celebration of Tanabata (meaning “Seven Evenings”), a Japanese star festival derived from Obon (a celebration of ancestors). Tanabata is usually celebrated on July 7th or August 7th, to commemorate the meeting of Orihime (Vega) and Hikoboshi (Altair).

Tanabata originated from the Chinese Festival to Plead for Skills (Oi Xi), which came to Japan in the Heian Period (795-1192), and spread to the public during the Edo Period (1603-1867), where it was then combined with Obon traditions. From the Edo Period, girls wished for better sewing and craftsmanship skills, while boys wished for better calligraphy skills, by writing wishes on strips of tanzaku paper, which were hung on bamboo trees. This tradition is still practiced today in Japan.

Even if Eiji Tsuburaya was not born on July 7th, the myth of being born on the Tanabata certainly was apt, because Tsuburaya would become famous for his multiple artistic and practical skills, which he had in spades — and eventually, the name Tsuburaya would become world-renown with the production of GODZILLA (1954).

Order your copy of "Eiji Tsuburaya: Master of Monsters" (Chronicle Books), today!

ULTRAMAN MONUMENT UNVEILED IN FUKUSHIMA New Tributes Unveiled in Tsuburaya's Hometown

来たぞ我らのウルトラマン像 ! 故・円谷監督の出身地に ...


Mayor Hashimoto with 4-year old Ultra Fan, Kosuke Mastsuzaki.

On March 1st in Sukagawa, Fukushima Prefecture, four fiberglass statues were unveiled of Ultraman, Ultra Seven, Gomora and Eleking along the street where the house that Eiji Tsuburaya (1901-1970) was born in once stood — honoring the birthplace of the legendary film-maker who created the traditional Japanese cinema art form of Tokusatsu (special visual effects). Mayor Katsuya Hashimoto, hopes these installations will help attract more tourism to Sukagawa.


Statue of one of the most popular of all the Ultra heroes, Ultra Seven!

Interviewed by the Asashi Shimbun's Naoyuki Takahashi, Hashimoto said, "When the Great East Japan Earthquake struck, we had citizens who helped many others rather than dwelling on their own personal disasters. I want our city to be full of such citizens who embody the Ultraman spirit."


The mighty Gomora roars in the night along peaceful Taimatsu-dori!

This is not the first cooperative between the city of Sukagawa and Tsuburaya Productions, the company that Eiji built. As part of the 50th Anniversary of the founding of the company, in May of 2013, Sukagawa was officially christened as the Sister City to the "Land of Light," the homeworld of Ultraman in the Nebula — becoming the virtual town of "Sukagawa M78: Town of Light." With the city hall accepting resident registration applications (!).


The eerie Eleking howls during the Full Moon over Sukagawa City!

This was followed by the unveiling of an actual stone, art deco-style edifice of Ultraman in front of Sukagawa's main train station on July 7, 2013 (the fictitious birthdate of Eiji Tsuburaya, which falls on the Tanabata), commemorating the "Sister City" status. Of course, there have been Ultraman statues and a permanent exhibit at Fukushima Airport since 2008, including displays with some original props from the pantheon of the long-running series.


The beautiful art deco-style Ultraman sculpture at Sukagawa Station!

On December 28, 2014, the first of six "Ultraman Mailboxes" was christened at Fukushima Airport, a co-op between Japan Post Co., Ltd., Tsuburaya Productions, and the Fukushima Airport Building Co,, Ltd. Letters and Postcards dropped into these special mailboxes will be postmarked with a special design incorporating Ultraman with Peonies, the official flower of Sukagawa. The others are stationed at various locations around Sukagawa.


Sukagawa's Postmaster drops in the first piece of mail into the box!

Needless to say, Sukagawa has other, and older tributes to the "Old Man" and his children from the Ultra Series — and while there's always the Soshigaya "Ultraman Town" walk in Tokyo, one really just needs to take a side trip to the birthplace of Eiji Tsuburaya to get closer to where it all began.

Only in Japan... (and that's why its awesome.)

HAPPY 60th ANNIVERSARY, GODZILLA! King of Monsters Debuted on November 3, 1954

ゴジラ生誕60年のアニバーサリー !


You're not getting older, Big G — you're getting better!

Has it really been 60 years since Godzilla was loosened upon the world? I remember when the Big G turned 25 in 1979, and since I was born long after 1954, it felt like he had been around an eternity from my young perspective. There was no time before him from my frame of reference. I grew up with Godzilla and he was already eternal. Little did we know that when I was growing up, Godzilla’s time was nigh; the first cycle of films that started in 1954 would be winding down by 1975. How could Godzilla not continue? His popularity in the US was at an all-time high — we still hadn’t gotten any of the films following GODZILLA VS. HEDORAH (1971) — he dominated local television, the pages of Famous Monsters and The Monster Times, and our thoughts.

As young Godzilla freaks, we drew pictures, created new monsters, and played with his toys (or made our own from dinosaurs figures) — even using the Aurora plastic model kit — but if you were lucky to live in Hawaii or California, you could buy what the kids in Japan had: 8” tall, soft vinyl “monster dolls” (we used to call them) with the iconic “Bullmark” logo branded on the bottom of their feet. As some of us got older, and remained fans, we organized, we started fan clubs, newsletters, fanzines, and hosted screenings. I was lucky to be retained as the “Godzilla/Japanese Film Expert” for our local horror host, Bob Wilkins, who had me talk about these films and television series on his shows, “Creature Features” and “Captain Cosmic,” thus pushing me in this direction.

The later films came, starting with GODZILLA VS. MEGALON in 1976 (our nation’s bicentennial), and his fans were legion, making the film a box office hit: There was no doubt that the Big G was the "King of the Monsters." Until the summer of 1977. STAR WARS exploded box office records around the world and Godzilla became an old hat, “So, 'last year.'” Even so, I — and others like me across North America — didn’t give up on our mon-star. Long before the Internet, we kept in contact through letters, fanzines, and phone calls. Still, even though Godzilla had been popular, he was looked down upon by many people — whether it was by those who still had a grudge against Japan or science fiction fans who saw the films as subpar — and so those of us who remained loyal, also had to be fiercely protective (not defensive) of the character and the films.

There were promises of revival movies that never materialized: “The Resurrection of Godzilla,” “Godzilla vs. the Devil,” and several US attempts, including a semi-remake, “Godzilla, King of the Monsters! 3D” (written by Fred Dekker and to be helmed by Steve Miner, which was more Gorgo than Godzilla). Finally, by the swelling nostalgic popularity at home, with record merchandise and home video sales, Toho announced an all-new Godzilla for 1984… It was a tenuous return, but one that would eventually spawn another thirteen films over the next two decades. In the 1990s, a new generation of US fans discovered the Big G and loved him. Old Timers discovered these new films, and new fanzines sprung up, as well as several conventions devoted to kaiju eiga.

This brave new fandom did not fade away, it has become stronger through cable and home video, the web, events and social networks. This has also grown to be embraced by those who just love monster movies and fantastic cinema — unscathed by the Roland Emmerich debacle — the reception to both editions of my book, “Eiji Tsuburaya: Master of Monsters” (Chronicle Books) has been phenomenal. New comic books, following in the footstomps those of the ‘70s and ‘90s, have taken off with a new, rabid following. And this summer's megabucks spectacle from Gareth Edwards won hearts and minds across the globe.

Everyone seems to have gone gaga for Godzilla. The Big G, kith and kin, have finally become “cool” (but we knew that already). After all, not only is Godzilla the first and greatest true kaiju ever to grace a motion picture screen, he is the one and true "King of the Monsters" — long live the king!

Dedicated to the memory of my childhood pal, Eric Worth

SCOOP! TOHO DISCOVERS LONG-LOST FOOTAGE! Japanese Satellite Cable Premieres In November

日本映画専門の『ゴジラ』公開60周年記念「発掘！お宝特撮特集」


Were original 35mm elements for KING KONG VS. GODZILLA found?

While Toho’s Visual Effects films have been run before on the Nihon Eiga Senmon Channel (Japanese Movie Specialty Channel), and this past spring and summer saw a countdown of every Godzilla title on the Satellite Cable station to usher in the domestic release of Gareth Edwards’ GODZILLA (2014), there was more amazing news dropped on their website this past Wednesday morning in Japan, that will be another great cause for kaiju eiga fans across the globe to rejoice.

For "Unearthed! Treasures of Visual Effects Collection," four films will be broadcast during the Big G’s 60th Anniversary — a cross section of Honda and Tsuburaya’s best, which isn't special in of itself, nor the premiere of new HD transfers, but rather that two of the films will be hailed as celebrations in of themselves. One of them, fans have been hoping on for decades, while the other is a completely mind-boggling surprising announcement, which I never saw coming.

There's more BATTLE IN OUTER SPACE? OMG, gag me with a SPIP!

Here’s the biggest news, first: According to the NESC website, some of the lost negative elements for the full-length theatrical version of KING KONG VS. GODZILLA (1962) have recently been discovered and will be restored for this presentation. There is no word on when or where the source elements were found, but this is extremely good news since the missing material was previously culled from a worn, anamorphic 16mm print (no "new" scenes have been found or will be incorporated into the film).

NESC's website stated that while this broadcast will be the premiere of a new, “High Quality” version of KING KONG VS. GODZILLA, it was also announced that the missing footage of this presentation will be non-HD (the NESC stating it's an “up conversion"), so although viewers will see a complete presentation, they're forewarning that it's not a full HD restoration (which is set for a future date). No other details were revealed; just a comment asking fans to be patient.

Meh. This old movie... again!? Who cares!? It's not even in color!

The second big one was dropped in the same announcement and on the same page — and with even less information divulged: Toho has discovered over three minutes of missing footage from BATTLE IN OUTER SPACE (1959), presumably never seen before! NESC’s website is promoting this as the “Long Version” of the film, boasting a running time of 96 minutes (the running time of the previously released DVD versions run 90 minutes and 13 seconds).

Despite what appears to be a discrepancy in running times (which is to be sorted out, I’m sure), this is the discovery that I’m most excited about, as I absolutely am bonkers for this film. As a kid, it delivered everything the other space pictures promised, but didn’t (or couldn’t deliver on), and in “flaming color and Tohoscope” to boot! Sure, it might not contain any visual effects footage, and it could be just some dialogue scenes, or some exposition that won’t change our lives, but I could care less — I can’t wait!

The Amazing Colossal Frankie swings in his first HD transfer!

Also running will be the US version of GODZILLA, KING OF THE MONSTERS (1956), originally released theatrically in Japan in a faux “cinemascope” by masking the top and bottom of the 35mm frame. This HD transfer will be the first broadcast ever on television. Also making its HD premiere will be the original theatrical version of FRANKENSTEIN VS. BARAGON (1965), aka FRANKENSTEIN CONQUERS THE WORLD, sans the Giant Octopus shot for the export versions.

All of the films will be aired on the same day, November 24th (sans the original GODZILLA running on November 3rd and November 24th), for one broadcast only! Those with friends in Japan will probably be pressing them for copies of these broadcasts — a great year to be a fan of these films just got better — you can bet that I’ll be looking forward to seeing them as soon as I can!

An important clarification on KING KONG VS. GODZILLA:

There is no "new footage" and there are no "new scenes" being added into the film. If you have seen the Japanese version, then you've seen everything. What was found, were the 35mm source elements, which had previously been considered "lost" after the film was shortened for Toho Champion Festival screenings in the '70s. These missing scenes were replaced (for all subsequent Toho Video releases since the '80s) using a 16mm anamorphic print, and the jump in quality was jarring. So, while the there isn't going to be anything "new", it's going to look a lot better.

(Special thanks to Kevin Pyrtle for keeping me on my toes!)

GIRLS, AND CEPHALOPODS, AND KONGS: OH MY!Behind-the-Scenes on KING KONG VS. GODZILLA

スナップ写真『キングコング対ゴジラ』より。


Candid publicity photo courtesy of Genju Ota. ©Toho Co, Ltd.

THE REAL "GODZILLA" IS COMING TO YOUR TOWN US Theatrical Screenings for the Big G's 60th!

初代『ゴジラ』は、アメリカの映画館に来ている！


Original Japanese theatrical release poster (1954). ©Toho Co., Ltd.

UPDATED (08/01/14): Rialto Pictures is once again rolling out the uncut Japanese version of the 1954 classic, boasting a brand-new 60th Anniversary DCP (Digital Cinema Package) Restoration (the transfer made for the Criterion Collection release) and it is now being booked in theaters around the US of A — contact your local cinema to screen it! Now, below is a quick look at the current dates and cities (those in red are newly-announced):

:: March 11: AUSTIN, TX • Alamo Ritz 1 (SXSW Film Festival)

:: April 12: HOLLYWOOD, CA • TCM Classic Film Festival

:: April 18–24: NEW YORK, NY • Film Forum

:: April 25–May 13: NEW YORK,  NY • IFC Center • HELD OVER (May 22)

:: May 1: SAVANNAH, GA • Savannah Film Festival 

:: May 2: HOLLYWOOD, CA • American Cinematheque Egyptian Theatre

:: May 2–4 & 6: SILVER SPRING, MD • AFI Silver

:: May 2–5: PORTLAND, OR • Hollywood Theatre*

:: May 2–8: SEATTLE, WA • SIFF Cinema Uptown

:: May 2–8: SOMERVILLE,  MA • Somerville Theatre • HELD OVER (May 15)

:: May 2–8: SANTA ANA, CA • The Frida Cinema

:: May 3: HOLLYWOOD,  CA • Egyptian Theatre

:: May 4: ASHBURN, VA • Alamo Drafthouse One Loudoun

:: May 4: LOS ANGELES,  CA • Landmark Regent Theatre

:: May 5–8: EDGEWOOD, PA • Pittsburgh Filmmakers (Regent Square)

:: May 5 & 8: KALAMAZOO, MI • Alamo Drafthouse Kalamazoo

:: May 8: AMBLER, PA • The Ambler Theater

:: May 8: KANSAS CITY, MO • Alamo Drafthouse Mainstreet

:: May 9–10: FAIRFAX, VA • Angelika Mosaic

:: May 9–11: NASHVILLE, TN • The Belcourt • HELD OVER (May 16-17 & 20-22)

:: May 9–11: NEWBERG, OR • 99W Drive-In

:: May 9–11 & 13: LUBBOCK, TX • Alamo Drafthouse Lubbock

:: May 9-15: DALLAS, TX • Angelika Dallas (

:: May 9–15: CHICAGO, IL • Music Box Theatre • HELD OVER (May 22)

:: May 9–15: DENVER, CO • Denver Film Society • HELD OVER (May 22)

:: May 9-15: SANTA FE, NM • Jean Cocteau Cinema • HELD OVER (May 22)

:: May 9–15: FORT COLLINS, CO • Lyric Cinema Cafe

:: May 9–15: ALBANY, NY • The Madison Theater

:: May 9–15: SAN FRANCISCO, CA • Sundance Cinemas Kabuki

:: May 9–15: MENTOR, OH • Atlas Cinemas Great Lakes Stadium 16

:: May 9–15: MINNEAPOLIS, MN • Film Society of Minneapolis/St. Paul

:: May 9–15: PORTLAND, OR • The Bagdad Theatre and Pub

:: May 10–11: YONKERS, NY • Alamo Drafthouse Yonkers

:: May 11–12: MAYFIELD HEIGHTS, OH • Atlas Cinemas Eastgate 10

:: May 11 & 13: ATLANTA, GA • Landmark Theatres Midtown Art Cinema

:: May 12–13: WICHITA, KS • Warren Theatres Old Town

:: May 12 –14: HOLLYWOOD, CA • ArcLight Cinemas Hollywood

:: May 12–13 & 15: EL SEGUNDO, CA • ArcLight Cinemas Beach Cities

:: May 12–13 & 15: PASADENA, CA • ArcLight Cinemas Pasadena

:: May 12–13 & 15: SAN DIEGO, CA • ArcLight Cinemas La Jolla

:: May 12–14: SHERMAN OAKS, CA • ArcLight Cinemas Sherman Oaks

:: May 13: AUSTIN, TX • Alamo Drafthouse Lakeline

:: May 13–14: ALAMEDA, CA • Alameda Theater & Cineplex*

:: May 14: DOYLESTOWN,  PA • The County Theater

:: May 14: BETHLEHEM, PA • Arts Quest

:: May 15: BOISE, ID • The Flicks

:: May 15: NEW BRAUNFELS, TX • Alamo Drafthouse Marketplace

:: May 15: SAN ANTONIO, TX • Alamo Drafthouse Park North

:: May 15: JENKINTOWN,  PA • The Hiway Theater
(Missing from Rialto's current update)

:: May 16–17: BROOKLYN, NY • Nitehawk Cinema

:: May 16–18: CORAL GABLES, FL • Coral Gables Art Cinema

:: May 23–26 HOUSTON, TX • The Museum of Fine Arts

:: May 28: LEXINGTON, KY • Kentucky Theatre

:: May 30–31: ST. LOUIS, MO • Landmark Theatres Tivoli Theatre

:: May 31–June 1: PORT TOWNSEND, WA • The Rose Theatre

:: May 31, June 2 & 5: BALTIMORE, MD • The Charles

:: June 6 – 12: IOWA CITY, IA • FilmScene

:: June 8: SAN FRANCISCO, CA: The Castro Theatre

:: June 14: QUEENS, NY • Museum of the Moving Image

:: June 14: LOUISVILLE, KY • Baxter Avenue Filmworks

:: June 14 – 15: ATHENS, GA • Ciné Theatre

:: June 17: SAN ANTONIO, TX • Texas Public Radio

:: June 18: BRYN MAWR, PA • Bryn Mawr Film Institute

:: June 18: TUCSON, AZ • The Loft Cinema

:: July 1 – 7: ATLANTA, GA • Plaza Theatre

:: July 4: MADISON, WI • UW Cinematheque

:: July 17: COLUMBUS, OH • Wexner Center for the Arts

:: July 18: BERKELEY, CA • Pacific Film Archive

:: August 1: MILFORD, MI • Kensington Metropark

:: August 1, 3 & 6: OMAHA, NE • Film Streams

:: August 8: SHELBY TOWNSHIP, MI • Stony Creek Metropark

:: August 10 & 12: ANN ARBOR, MI • Michigan Theater

:: August 12: SALT LAKE CITY, UT • Utah Film Center

:: August 15: NEW BOSTON, MI • Willow Metropark

:: August 22 & 24: SHELBYVILLE, IN • Skyline Drive-In

:: August 23: VICTORIA, TX • Welder Center for the Performing Arts

:: August 26 & 28: ITHACA, NY • Cornell Cinema

:: September 12: HOLLYWOOD, CA • LA EigaFest

:: October 12 & 18: BLOOMINGTON, IN • Indiana University Cinema

:: October 18: MAITLAND, FL • Enzian Theater

Stay tuned for more dates... And if you don't see your city or town, contact your local theaters and ask them to book the film. Also, the new, paperback edition of my book, EIJI TSUBURAYA: MASTER OF MONSTERS on sale May 6th from Chronicle Books — and I'm available to introduce the screenings (with a visual presentation on the making of the film).

Currently, my confirmed appearance dates (as of Monday, May 5th) include May 2nd - 4th (The Hollywood Theater, Portland, OR) and May 13th & 14th (Alameda Theater, Alameda, CA). More dates to be announced — for booking contact us at august [dot] ragone [at] gmail [dot] com!

Composer and lifelong Godzilla fan, John "Dutch" DeSentis will be introducing the screening at the Arts Quest Center in Bethlehem, PA on May 14th, and will take questions after the film. For more information, click here.

More importantly, Gareth Edwards, director of Legendary Pictures' upcoming GODZILLA, hosted the screenings at SXSW in Austin and the TCM Film Festival in Hollywood!

"GODZILLA" RAIDS ALAMEDA: MAY 13th & 14th! Alameda Theater Signings for "Eiji Tsuburaya"

初代『ゴジラ』と私はアラメダ市に上陸 !


The Big G raids Alameda this week in search of nuclear wessels!

Come join me on Tuesday, May 13th and Wednesday, May 14th for screenings of the original GODZILLA (1954) at the historic Alameda Theatre in Alameda, California, as part of their "Classic Film Series." Prior to the each evening's screening, there will be a reception in the Lobby from 5:30-6:40 pm, offering the opportunity for attendees to obtain copies of the second edition of "Eiji Tsuburaya: Master of Monsters" (Chronicle Books), the lavishly-illustrated biography of the visual effects mastermind behind Godzilla and Ultraman.

At 6:50 pm, on both nights I will be introducing the film with a special presentation, with the film screening at 7:00 pm (running time 98 minutes). Afterwards, there will be a Q&A session, and an additional book signing (courtesy, Books Inc.). The Alameda Theatre offers Discount Ticket Packets for their Classic Film Series (Discount Packets of four are $25.00. Packets of eight are $40.00). Advance ticket packets are valid for any future Classic Films at the Alameda Theatre and never expire. General Admission only is $7.75.

Tickets are currently available, so order now!

THE CONTROLLER WANTS YOU TO CAPITULATE: Buy "Eiji Tsuburaya: Master of Monsters" Now!

X星人統制官の指令：「円谷英二 怪獣の使い」が今を買う！


WANTED: More Readers Like... THE CONTROLLER OF PLANET X!

The Controller orders all mankind to surrender and buy my book, EIJI TSUBURAYA: MASTER OF MONSTERS (Chronicle Books), now on sale across the solar system — including Planet X — and throughout the intergalactic structure, as well. NOW!


Now available in a deluxe paperback edition, amended and updated!

Click here for Plan 2, Item 4, Schedule 5!

"GODZILLA" STOMPS INTO PORTLAND: MAY 2 - 5! Hollywood Theater Signing for "Eiji Tsuburaya"

初代『ゴジラ』と私はポートランド市に上陸 !

The digital restoration of GODZILLA is coming to Portland this week!

This coming Friday, May 2nd, the original, uncut version of Ishiro Honda's GODZILLA (1954) will be smashing onto the big screen at Portland's historic Hollywood Theatre through Monday, May 5th. But, don't worry, Kyle Yount, the host of Kaijucast, and I will be there to help you survive this Northwestern kaiju attack in our opening intro on the making of this historic film. And I will be armed with copies of the new edition of "Eiji Tsuburaya: Master of Monsters" (Chronicle Books)!

The first copies of this new edition will be available at the event!

Showtimes for Ishiro Honda's GODZILLA are Friday (May 2nd) at 7:00 pm, Saturday (May 3rd) & Sunday (May 4th) at 3:00 pm, and Monday (May 5th) at 9:30 pm. I will be signing advance copies of the new "Eiji Tsuburaya" before and after each screening in the Lobby — but, supplies of these early-bird copies are limited (the book goes on sale to the public on May 6th). So, come down and get a copy before the rest of the country does!

Tickets for the Friday (May 4th) & May 6th Evening shows: General Admission: $8.00 • Seniors (65+), Students & Children (12 & Under): $6.00. All tickets for the Saturday (May 3rd) & Sunday (May 4th) Matinees are only $5.00. Advance tickets are available from the Hollywood Theatre!

DO I KNOW THE WAY TO SAN JOSE? WHY, YES! August Ragone (hey, that's me) at Big Wow 2014

著者獣ラゴニは「BIG WOW!」で5月17-18日にゲストになります！


Big Wow is heaping on the Famous Monsters and Kaiju this year!

Adding to the great line-up of horror, sci-fi and fantasy guests this year at Big Wow! ComicFest, Famous Monsters of Filmland magazine will host the "Famous Monsters Pavilion," a special area inside the event on May 17th & 18th at the San Jose Convention Center. I will be participating this year to promote the release of the new and updated paperback edition of my book, "Eiji Tsuburaya: Master of Monsters" (Chronicle Books), as well as joining in with my fellow FM Grue Crew co-horts to celebrate the 60th Anniversary of the Big G, himself, Godzilla!


New and improved paperback edition drops May 6th: Click here!

Our special guests from Japan include Heisei Godzilla suit actor, Kenpachiro Satsuma, Original Ultraman suit actor, Satoshi Furuya, and the star of KIKAIDA, Daisuke Ban! Over the weekend, I will also be moderating their panels and presentations, to celebrate their contributions to the genre during this big celebratory year at this monstrous event in San Jose! Joining me will be multi-Hugo Award winning artist (and pal), Bob Eggelton, who has contributed all of the fantastic covers for our annual "Kaiju Issues" of FM, including four (!) amazing covers for this year's issue!


One of four Eggleton covers for FM #274 available at Big Wow 2014!

FM #274 continues our annual tradition of the wildly popular and best-selling "All Kaiju Issue" restarted in 2011 (featuring my Rondo Award-winning interview with Haruo "Godzilla" Nakajima), and each year, the response and demand has gotten bigger, and now it goes critical mass with this year's 60th Anniversary celebration! I can't say more at the moment, Mr. Eggleton's above-featured cover is the Newsstand Edition, while another of the three covers will be a Big Wow! Exclusive — and we'll unveil them all very soon!

There will be more — much more — at this year's Big Wow! x Famous Monsters event at the San Jose Convention Center... Including an all-new "Creatures Con" tribute to the legendary "Creature Features" and horror host, Bob Wilkins! Stay tuned for breaking news as it develops!

"GODZILLA" LAID BARE IN SAN FRANCISCO! Textless "Coming Soon" Poster from Legendary

米国『ゴジラ』のポスターは今発表！


Textless Coming Soon poster art that has blown-up the internet.

Since the announcement of the upcoming Gareth Edwards' GODZILLA for Legendary Pictures, I've been asked — frequently — what I think about this latest American interpretation of this immortal cinema icon. Long before it unspooled in theaters, I dreaded 1998 debacle (especially after having read the screenplay for the earlier, and ultimately unfilmed, Jan de Bont production), but I am curious and — somewhat cautiously — optimistic for this new round.


And here's the same Coming Soon poster with all of it's clothes on.

Part of the reason stems from the forthright approach of director Edwards and the solid casting. So, I think we might have something good — or at least very sincere — on our hands. It also helps that Edwards and the staff had copies of my book,"Eiji Tsuburaya: Master of Monsters," as reference material (which was also employed in putting together the "Godzilla Encounter" at the San Diego Comic-Con 2013). And he even gave us a great quote for the paperback edition out on April 8th.

Still, what do I think of an American version of Godzilla? Well, I might have to say that it would be the same as what I'd think of a Japanese Superman: Supes is inherently American. Period. (And the Japanese have Ultraman.) When I discovered these films as a child I was drawn to them for some reason, and as I got older I realized it was because they are Japanese. This is why they are appealing to me in the first place. Remove the Japaneseness from Godzilla and what will we have left?

With that being said, I will be waiting to see the film on May 15th with crossed fingers (for Gareth Edwards), but I will not be holding my (radioactive) breath. At least my hometown is on the poster...

Courtesy of Warner Bros. Entertainment:
Download the official textless poster (4050x6000 300dpi), here!
Download the official poster with text (4050x6000 300dpi), here!
Download the isolated text blocks, here!

Special thanks to Chris Mirjahangir!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, EIJI TSUBURAYA! July 10, 1901 - January 25, 1970

お誕生日おめでとう、円谷英二様！


With storyboards for BATTLE IN OUTER SPACE (1959). ©Toho

Click here for more about Eiji Tsuburaya, the Father of Japanese Special Visual Effects.

KAIJU RAGONE INVADES COMIC-CON 2010! Kill Them All, Let Godzilla Sort Them Out!

It's that time of the year... The fandom miasma that is the San Diego Comic-Con International! I've returned to one of my favorite towns to sign the last remaining copies Chronicle Books has of my first book, EIJI TSUBURAYA: MASTER OF MONSTERS, which is almost entirely sold out — which is amazing, considering that the original print run was 15,000, bumped up from 10,000 when it became the most coveted book previewed at Comic-Con 2007 (at least, that's what my editors told me). This doesn't include copies that are on the shelves of bookstores around the world — from Tokyo to Paris — or those remaining with distributors. But, if you're at Comic-Con this weekend, I'll be happy to sign your copy, and destroy any resale value it could have had! But, that's up to you!

Aside from EIJI TSUBURAYA, I'm also hosting a presentation celebrating Shout! Factory's acquisition and release of the eight original Gamera films, produced between 1965 and 1980, spearheaded by the late director Noriaki Yuasa. I was hired as a Special Features Producer for this series of releases, and the first two have already been unleashed on an unsuspecting populace: Yuasa's GAMERA, THE GIANT MONSTER (1965) and Shigeo Tanaka's GAMERA VS. BARUGON (1966), the later of which featured visual effects helmed by Mr. Yuasa. These first two releases will also be available during Comic-Con at the Shout! Factory booth (#3749), and those who pick up either title will receive a free set of eight postcards, reproductions of the original Japanese hand-tinted lobby cards, representing scenes from each of films.

Here's the rundown of what's going down with me at Comic-Con 2010 (besides the usual off-duty chaos):

Thursday, July 22nd

12:00-1:00pm GAMERA, THE INVINCIBLE! — Author August Ragone (Chronicle Books' Eiji Tsuburaya: Master of Monsters) presents a visual tribute to Godzilla's No. 1 rival, the original Mutant Flying Turtle himself: Gamera! This program celebrates the first official DVD release of the original 1960s–1970s film series from Shout! Factory, with commentary on how Gamera was created and how the films were made, as well as rare, behind-the-scenes photographs and clips. Find out if Gamera is really full of turtle meat in the Q&A and win copies of Shout!'s latest release Gamera vs. Barugon — all in one colossal presentation guaranteed to knock you right out of your shell! Room 32AB

Friday, July 23rd

2:00-3:00pm EIJI TSUBURAYA: MASTER OF MONSTERS Book Signing — Author August Ragone will be on-hand once again to sign copies of his life and career biography of the man who brought Godzilla to life and created Ultraman, visual effects pioneer Eiji Tsuburaya! This session will be taking place at the Chronicle Books booth (#1506-1508), one day only!

Through this event that feels like one is riding on a tidal wave of terror, I hope to see some old faces and meet some new ones at this year's overwhelming psychotic cavalcade of electrifying horror known as the San Diego Comic-Con International! SEE! Dynamic Violence! SEE! Savage Action! SEE! Spectacular Thrills! It is seriously more fantastic than any written by Jules Verne! Seriously.

For more information on Comic-Con 2010 and to see this year's full schedule of events, click here!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, EIJI TSUBURAYA! July 10, 1901 - January 25, 1970

お誕生日おめでとう、円谷英二監督!


A break during the production of THE THREE TREASURES, 1959.

Click here for more about Eiji Tsuburaya, the Father of Japanese Special Visual Effects.

IT'S COMIC-CON TIME AGAIN! Godzilla & Eiji Tsuburaya Represented!

JULY 23rd-26th @ SAN DIEGO CONVENTION CENTER

For that last two days, I have been immersed in the biggest gathering of its kind in the world: Comic Con International. Despite being sold out in advance for the first time in its history, the crowds have seemed tame on Thursday and Friday... It's the calm before the storm, as today, Saturday, promises to be a proverbial madhouse.

That's good and bad; I'm signing copies of my book today, Saturday, July 25th at the Chronicle Books booth (#1506), and hope that I don't get lost in the fan feeding frenzy in the Exhibitors Hall today... For those attending and interested, my signing will take place between 2:00 pm and 3:00 pm -- come on down!

Tomorrow, Sunday, July 26th in Room 8, I will be hosting a tribute to the kaiju eiga of Eiji Tsuburaya, entitled "Eiji Tsuburaya & The Master of Monsters" (listed in the program guide simply as "Masters of Monsters"). Running from 1:30 pm - 2:30 pm, show features over 200 behind-the-scenes photographs and production designs from Tsuburaya's major monster movies, from GODZILLA (1954) through LATITUDE ZERO (1969).

So far, Comic Con has been another blast... details to follow after recovery... hope to see you here!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, EIJI TSUBURAYA! July 10, 1901 - January 25, 1970

円谷英二への誕生日おめでとう!


The Father of Japanese Special Visual Effects, 1960.

Click here for more about Eiji Tsuburaya.

WILKINS, TSUBURAYA & RAGONE @ WONDERCON February 27th-March 1st • San Francisco

Commemorative Bob Wilkins poster by Mr. Lobo.

WonderCon returns to the Moscone Center in San Francisco, brought to you by the madmen behind the massive San Diego Comic Con International! This year, I will be hosting my usual Japanese Superheroes Now! presentation, as well as a behind-the-scenes journey to the Golden Age of Toho's kaiju eiga with Godzilla and the Master of Monsters. I also will be sitting in on a presentation on the late Horror Host Bob Wilkins, and there will be a special screening of the documentary Watch Horror Films, Keep America Strong. Hopefully I can squeeze a book signing in, too!

• Friday, February 27th
5:30-7:00 WATCH HORROR FILMS, KEEP AMERICA STRONG
For 14 years (1971-1984) Creature Features was one of the most popular programs in San Francisco Bay Area television history, hosted by the late Bob Wilkins for eight years (followed by John Stanley for another six). Wilkins' sharp wit and unusually droll humor and Stanley's celebrity interviews and encyclopedic knowledge are all part of Watch Horror Films, Keep America Strong, a feature-length documentary illuminating a bygone era of local television. Watch Horror Films also features interviews with Wilkins, Stanley, and other key figures — not to mention classic clips from the show! Room 220

• Saturday, February 28th
2:30-3:30 JAPANESE SUPERHEROES NOW: 2009!
Author August Ragone (Eiji Tsuburaya: Master of Monsters) returns for his 15th anniversary roundup of the latest superhero and kaiju productions from Japan: Kamen Rider Decade, Samurai Task Force: Shinkenger, Superior 8 Ultra Brothers and Ultra Galaxy: Giant Monster Battle Neo. Plus, see clips from recent stateside DVD releases, including Gamera the Brave, Inazuman, Super Robot: Red Baron, Kitaro, and more! Room 236/238

• Sunday, March 1st
3:00-4:00 A TRIBUTE TO BOB WILKINS
Join John Stanley, Bob Shaw, Rob Wilkins, Mr. Lobo, Ernie Fosselius, Tom Wyrsch and August Ragone for an information-packed journey through the life and career of the late Bob Wilkins, host of the Bay Area's mega-popular Creature Features horror movie show (1971-1979). The panel will share personal memories about Wilkins and show rare video clips and photos, as well as introduce scenes from the newly released DVD documentary, Watch Horror Films, Keep America Strong, which examines the history of one of the Bay Area's most beloved television legends. Room 220

4:00-5:00 GODZILLA AND THE MASTER OF MONSTERS
Author August Ragone (Eiji Tsuburaya: Master of Monsters) presents a visual tribute to Japan's Master of Monsters, Eiji Tsuburaya, the man who created the special effects for Godzilla and invented the kaiju eiga (giant monster movie) genre. See over a hundred rare, behind-the-scenes photographs from some of his major films, such as Godzilla, Rodan and Mothra, all in one big presentation! Room 220

Check out the WonderCon link for a full listing of their guests, events and programs.