Return of Godzilla/Godzilla 1984 - All 3 versions of the film on 3 DVDS, UNCUT, in their original form on 3 DVDS

The Return of Godzilla (often called Godzilla 1984) exists in several distinct versions. While they tell the same basic story—a lone Godzilla returns to Japan after a 30-year absence—the edits, tone, and even some plot details differ significantly.

1. Japanese Original – The Return of Godzilla (1984)

• Running time: About 103 minutes.
• Language: Japanese (later also received an international English dub).
• Tone: Serious, dark, and political, much like the original 1954 film.
• Story: Focuses on Japan's struggle between the United States and the Soviet Union during the Cold War while trying to deal with Godzilla. The film emphasizes nuclear tensions and the danger of superpower conflict.

2. U.S. Version – Godzilla 1985 (1985)

• Running time: About 87 minutes.
• Major additions:
  • Approximately 10 minutes of newly filmed scenes.
  • Raymond Burr reprises his role as reporter Steve Martin from the 1956 American version of the original Godzilla.
  • New Pentagon scenes featuring American military officials.
• Changes:
  • Much of the Japanese dialogue was rewritten.
  • Several scenes were shortened, rearranged, or removed.
  • The Cold War storyline was altered, including changes to the Soviet missile incident.
  • A different musical score was added in several sequences using American stock music.

3. International English Dub

• This version uses the original Japanese edit but replaces the Japanese dialogue with English voices.
• No Raymond Burr footage or American story changes are included.
• It is the preferred English-language version for fans who want the original film without reading subtitles.

Which version is considered the best?

Most Godzilla fans prefer The Return of Godzilla (1984) in its original Japanese form because it preserves the intended pacing, character development, and Cold War themes. The Godzilla 1985 version has nostalgic value—especially for viewers who grew up with it—and Raymond Burr's return is widely appreciated, but the extensive edits make it a noticeably different film.

Widescreen, In Color, Stereo Surround, Rated PG,