Monarch: Legacy of Monsters Explores Godzilla's Twin Heritages | The Backdrop
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- Опубліковано 27 лис 2023
- Welcome to The Backdrop with Darren Mooney, our brand-new show focused on critical analysis of movies, tv shows, and the business surrounding them.
Monarch: Legacy of Monsters is a show about symmetry. It is about doubling and mirroring, concepts separated across time and space intersecting on one central point.
From the team behind The Escapist, we're excited to introduce you to our new employee-owned and fully independent outlet, Second Wind.
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It’s great to have you back Darren
Happy Holidays
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The difference in how Godzilla is handled East/West is really interesting and I had a college professor frame it in another way for people who didn't get it: This was about 15 years after 9/11, and he said imagine another country making a film about that day where the Towers turn into mechs that can join together like Voltron and they fight off an giant, alien desert snake. It might be a great monster movie, but people alive at that time will have very mixed emotions about that
That’s a really good way of putting it.
Always enjoyable to watch people who don’t understand art or symbolism (ZennExile) have opinions about it.
@@ZennExile Tell me you have no meaningful connection to or understanding of the consequences of an event without telling me.
Was the American movie supposed to be about a giant alien desert snake attacking the Towers? Because you're comparing two separate things. The Japanese Gojira WAS a monster movie. It is not a historical fact movie about nuclear war. Its a metaphor of that just as Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind's giant robot weapons uses nuclear war imagery. Remaking Nausicaa without the Humans-Destroy-Themselves-And-Nature backdrop would make the intelligent Nature communicating with Humans less impactful, more childish. But it wouldn't be an insult the way you imply.
Badfic, that's the point. The original Godzilla was a metaphor for the totality of that that event, the terror and helplessness of ordinary people in the face of that destruction, and a condemnation of the ones who dropped the bomb. The American response was to have him fight King Kong for funsies, thereby losing that context in favor of entertainment. The example was trying to reframe to American students how that might feel strange with an event relatable to them. The movie could be amazing and go on to become a series in its own right, but it's worth examining how the context/lack thereof might make someone feel when they were there or even just glued to the TV as it happened
I hope you guys don't take this the wrong way, but this forced rebranding is making me watch and discover other series from you guys that I would've just passed by before. You guys really do have top notch writers, presenters and editors.
Not offensive at all, we're glad people are finally finding all of the super talented people that work here finally!
@@SecondWindGroup Keep up this confidence bros
There's another symmetry and dual heritage to Godzilla, even just in Japan: there's the serious stories where he's a proxy for the awe and terror of the atomic bomb like the original and Shin Godzilla, and there's the big monsterfests like many of the "Godzilla Vs ..." titles and Final Wars, which are largely an excuse for daikaiju slapfests. Monarch has to put in work to reconcile these, too, by explaining that not just Godzilla but all the various daikaiju exist in an ecosystem and retroactively explaining their absurdist antics while not downplaying their metaphorical role and still producing a spectacle for an audience that wants to see giant lizard smackdowns (on a TV budget, no less).
Great start to the new series! Looking forward to more.
The idea that Godzilla is a manifestation of the forces of nature is central to various Japanese interpretations over the years, such as _Godzilla versus Hedorah._ Not all Japanese Godzilla movies had apocalyptic overtones. The Legendary Godzilla reflects an interpretation fo some of the more protagonistic and lighthearted past iterations of Godzilla.
Yes, Godzilla is friend to the children of the world.
The Gamera movies has a similar theme running through then about the balance of nature
Really fun watch and neat ideas. I like seeing a review which isn't strictly "LIKE THIS THING!" or "HATE THIS THING!"
Fantastic work, everyone!
Yep. That was a big thing for us when we started doing the series. That market’s covered, and I’ll never be quite as good at that as the best of the people who already do it are - plus, it honestly seems exhausting.
I remember that the vibe I kinda wanted to capture was sitting in a pizzeria at 1am, talking over whatever it is you just saw at Friday night at the pictures. Which was how I spent many of my teenage years in Sligo.
I’m curious if that was also a subtle shout out to Lindsay Ellis.
@@calebmarmon1310 Not consciously, but I am very fond of her work, so it’s possible that phrasing got stuck in my brain. (It’s a good way of putting it.)
@@Darren_Mooney it’s a good mantra that more video essayists should consider. Great video btw.
Having grown up on the original Godzilla movies I was outraged as a child when the Rolland Emerich Godzilla was killed by mere jets. Anyway, glad to see you back at the videos. Looking forward to many more and with obligatory sidebars.
It was admittedly fun to break that one out!
American Godzilla movies are usually about "doom radioactive monsters are interesting for a few nerds, but the important thing is DADDY ISSUES".
Glad to see the new series is about that, too.
Even in the casting!
Darren actively engaging with several of the comments here on his personal account is a big W, he's working hard even after the video drops
Ha! I mean, people take the time to engage, I do want to acknowledge that as best I can, with the time that I have.
@@Darren_Mooney In case you aren't an imposter, you might want to make that profile a bit more recogniseable, so people reaslise, who's talking.
Without Bomber's comment I would not have thought to look out for you and if you hadn't responded here I am not sure I would've recognised the account quickly.^^
I loved the In The Frame videos and I am SO glad to be getting more video content from Mooney ❤️
I am so glad to be writing them!
@Darren_Mooney Phenomenal video ❤️ Can't wait for the next one! 😊
just wanted to say, leaving 'the other channel' is the best thing you all could done, like, for us. This essay was amazing and you're right, I am new to your series and loved it! Thank you.
Thank you. Appreciated!
Y’know, the best part about the whole split up is that everyone is getting much more exposure than at the other site. This is my first time watching this series as I didn’t even know it existed in the other place. And I really love it! Keep it up y’all, rooting for the whole team out there, y’all are amazing!
Really unfortunate that this show isn’t getting nearly as many views as the other ones that moved over. This is now my favorite content on the channel and likely the one I will continue to seek out.
Not unfortunate at all. Actually doing very well, as In the Frame was one of our lower viewed shows back on The Escapist.
Views don’t define success now because we are fan-funded!
@@SecondWindGroup I was more attempting to espresso my disappointment that more people hadn’t seen a show I personally think is really good then decrying it not meeting some bar of ‘success’ but I can see how it could be misunderstood.
Glad y’all seem to be finding your feet and the ability to define success for yourselves.
I am so happy to see Yomarz as a part of this channel. Thank you all so much for the consistent high quality content right out of the gate here.
He’s phenomenal!
Glad to have Darren back, missed in the frame.
As did I! One of the things of which I am most proud!
I'm not familiar with the other site's show (was definitely one of those "mostly just ZP" people over there) but I really enjoyed this!!! It's a really neat way to review a piece of media, and even just honing in on this specific thing (Japan's and America's differing versions of this mythos and creature) opens up the doors for a lot of different things to talk about - this episode could probably have been twice as long without repeating itself, and I would've enjoyed it just as much
Looking forward to more from The Backdrop. Great work Darren!!
Excited to see whatever this new show has in store for me! I love this wild west esque period in second winds life. really hope you guys stabilize and land on your feet!
The audience response has been overwhelming. I mean, it’s a great team, but I think we’re all humbled by how the public have supported us. So thank you, one and all!
I love how these guys went about starting and running this channel. Inspirational.
Good to have you back, Darren!
As a Film Studies graduate, it's so good to know Second Wind have kept you. You're up there with the likes of Mark Kermode in terms of your analysis. Definitely one of the best critics/analysts out there!
That intro animation is stunning! Always found these discussions interesting and I'm glad to see them continue!
Aw sweet! You do videos about general random Shows? This channel quickly becomes one of my favorite
Ha! Well, hopefully not *random*, but yeah, some nice media coverage!
@@Darren_Mooney i stand corrected😄
So happy to see Darren's work again!
Thank you!
If you don't mind me asking, what was his other content called? I want to go back and watch it.
He did In the Frame at the Escapist, along with several of the podcasts. His insights are always interesting and I love his style. He also wrote a lot for the site and according to Nick patrons at the $5 tier (I think) and above will be getting access to twice weekly columns from him going forward.
He also does other stuff not with this group; I know he's written several books among other things.
@@dolphinsniper Sure. It was "In the Frame." Very proud of it.
@@Darren_Mooney Oh, 'In the Frame', I think I've seen some of that, thanks!
Planned on watching a few minutes to get a feel about the series because I wasn't particularly interested in the subject. Watched the whole thing without even realizing because I was hooked. Well done!
So glad to see you still around Darren. Always a pleasure to hear your thoughts
Another viewer here who has just discovered this series. Great video! I really enjoyed it.
(And I know there's no way to say this without sounding petty, so I'll just spit it out: The first syllable of "kaiju" rhymes with "eye," not "way.")
Wyatt Russell is such a competent actor in his own right that I regularly forget that he's the son of Kurt Russell and Goldie Hawn
He is. And I think being blonde and having a distinct accent helps him avoid becoming too typecast as his father's son. (He's great, though.)
Really appreciate a video essay series that isn't just "Thing 'es good :)". I look forward to the next episode!
Thanks! As do we!
I dont mind the US taking a totally different angle to Godzilla, we're a different culture with different histroy. Just as long as they do SOMETHING, unlike the 98 version.
Also I'm so happy to finally see Kurt and Wyatt Russell playing younger and older versions of the same character
Yep. Surprised that it took this long.
So happy Darren is back. Hoping after Christmas I'll be able to sign up on patreon for the columns tier. Loved reading his columns on the other site and definitely want to give support to this new endeavour!
Finally we get some more Darren in our lives 🤩
This is what the inside of my head sounds like all the time.
Second Wind's In the Frame? Let's go
… but legally distinct.
Genuinely never watched a series like this so I'm new to this formula, but GAWD DAAAAYUMN that was well produced!
Credit where it's due: fantastic edit from Omar.
Thanks, Darren! I'm so glad you all are free to do the things you want to do. What a smashingly successful launch of what looks to be a wonderful group of people doing amazing things! Quite the second wind! 😎🤘☮️
Finding your series was a revelation, ever since your Andor review. You're a talented critic and I'm stoked you made the jump with the others. Yours in particular were the videos I'm most relieved to see make a comeback!
Thanks. I was thrilled to be asked to come along for the ride. (I jumped before I knew there was a bouncy castle waiting, what a few days that was.)
@@Darren_Mooney The bouncy castle metaphor is so perfect, live the moment!
Never get tired of listening to Darren talk about stuff.
I've been a fan of Godzilla films for most of my life. Both Japanese and US interpretations. While I do prefer the Japanese takes on Godzilla, many of the US iterations have been good.
Out of the modern movies, the only one that hit the happy moments was King of Monsters. But, I am loving monarch. That one is hitting the right buttons.
With Marvel being what it is nowadays, the MonsterVerse is definitely my favourite cinematic universe right now 😊
This is the first video of yours I've seen but its a promising idea and I look forward to the next one. Good work.
Thank you! I hope you enjoy!
Never saw you on the last show, but I'm looking forward to your next episode on this show. Great video!
Great show! Looking forward to continuing watching 😊
Love the content, thanks for the english subs (not mentionned a lot but for not native speakers it helps a lot in fully understanding the video)
I'm so glad I watched this. Everything you guys put out is amazing
Superb. I enjoyed that. Another show from the video team that I'd not paid proper attention to until the advent of second wind.
Finally finished Monarch: Legacy of Monsters and circled back. Delightful video essay
I don't know how you do it but you always manage to keep my full attention on subjects that I'm usually not interested in at all.
Thanks! That’s a really nice compliment, I appreciate it.
(Reaches into subject folder marked “Warner Bros. and U.S. Tax Law.”)
I really like video essays and will definitely keep watching this!
Cheers! Appreciated!
This was good stuff, Second Wind. Keep it up!
Excellent show! Looking forward to more of this.
Thanks! I love Darren's Videos, this one was a great intro
Yep, chuffed with it.
great video as always. can't wait for more episodes :)
Thank you for the great format!
Really enjoyed this, had not seen any of the previous videos but will definitely be watching this series!
Thanks! Hope you enjoy it!
I am so thankful for being introduced to all these other amazing series and creators that I never knew existed before. This is so good!
Thanks for this great video! Excited to see what comes next😊
As are we!
Your columns are very fun to read Darren!
Thank you! Glad you enjoyed!
Alright, Darren's back! Great debut for this series!
This ruled, I had never watched his other legally distinct show. Happy to have tried this! Will keep an eye for it :)
Give it a go! I had fun making it, I think Omar did too. And I think those people who did watch it enjoyed it.
I was huge Godzilla fan as a kid and i had completely forgotten about the Saturday morning cartoon! I also remember there were comics based on the cartoon. What a weird trip down memory lane 😅
Yep. As other comments have pointed out, there's so much stuff that we could have gone on much longer on it all. But I think the episode as it was flows nicely.
I had no idea you went with the team, I am so glad about that! Good luck!
I didn't know you guys had a movie-series show, it was a pleasure to discover!
different channel same great genius commentary! it is a pleasure to support darren and everybody else on this channel!
Woooo, glad you're along for the ride Darren!
Thrilled to be here!
"this show is more 'thing interesting' or 'thing worth talking about'"
I can totally get down with that, as opposed to the usual "thing good" or "thing bad" talk!
Yep, hopefully!
Oh, I very much liked this video! Excited to see what's next!
This was great. Learnt quite a bit I didn't know before
Would love more content about "the business"! The appropriately titled podcast "The Business" from KCRW is one of my favorites.
"The Town" is also good on the Ringer. It's a shame we were off during the strikes, because there would have been a lot to talk about.
Darren! This Godzilla lover is overjoyed to see this video. As always, fantastic work. Can’t wait to see more!
Shoutout to Jess Schwab, the resident Godzilla expert on the team.
Really enjoying this channel.
Wow, I loved this. Another awesome series I've never seen!
I didn't watch much before the whole fiasco happened, but now I'm more than happy to start finding all these shows! Thanks for what you do!
Great to have you back Darren! Are you gonna be on any of the podcasts too?
I think something Recap-esque is on the cards. But we’re taking our time launching stuff, trying to get everything established and grounded.
Hi Omar!!! (glad you here)
I missed Darren videos so much, and am the greatest Godzilla fan ever so, yeah this was amazing
Oh, wow! Glad you liked it then! (Also, from me: hi Omar!)
Amazing narrative and tone as always, btw as an editor myself, i always tho Omar work puts a lot of personality on your videos, am legitlly happy he is here too, tell him if you can please@@Darren_Mooney
Darren Mooney is so insightful it blows my mind
Love the new vibes. Darren maintains his top ranking in my book!
Thank you for the video.
Wow! This was fun to watch😃, I'm eager to see what's talked about next!😀💖😄
Thank you! Glad you enjoyed!
Excellent video, thank you 😊
Much appreciated. Thanks for watching!
Good to hear your voice again Darren!
Glad to be speaking!
Another great vid Darren, love your work but the Garth Merenghi "subtext" clip has taken it to a whole new level of artistry.
Glad Darren hopped over too.
😮 liking this so far, gotta jump out a few minutes in for work but im gonna come back soon as my next break comes in
Cheers! Hope you enjoy. (Also, hope work goes well!)
@@Darren_Mooney well the tips were middling at best but I did enjoy the video! Just finished the vid on the train home, it was good but amusingly it too seems caught between two worlds- the video states itself to be About how the show is of showing the dual-world nature of Godzilla itself, the examples of it doing so on a deeper level almost seem anecdotal in comparison to the larger contextualization of the second (american) world that the property has occupied in its life alongside the obvious Japanese one. Can't wait to see what the next week is about!
Never saw this show on The Site That Must Not Be Named, but I'm glad I decided to tune in on its new home. I think I'll really enjoy the series!
Cheers, I hope you do!
Im discovering a whole universe of great content!
Better than a review, explained it enough that I want to watch it now.
nicely done I thought I would play it as background noise while I did some work but got totally sucked into it.
Thanks! That’s quite the compliment!
@@Darren_Mooney never noticed the reply. i can't wait to see more. i am always busy making dnd stuff or writing a review on steam so when i get sucked into a video and it can keep me preoccupied its perfect for me. the music, the tone well done my friend.
I absolutely love the intro!
This is the kind of excellent content that leads to interesting conversations. I literally beg you to provide sources or at least resources for further examination.
That’s interesting. Because we do work hard to source our material, and the script obviously includes links for the video editors. (And, to be fair, they also do their own work; that “Dr. Pepper” thing was all Jesse.)
Trying to figure out how we’d incorporate it. In this case, there is a Patreon article that has most of the links and sources in it. In the old days, we’d write a text companion piece.
"I don't like video essays on UA-cam". That used to be a very straightforward stance of mine, but I now have to amend it:
I don't like video essays on UA-cam, except Darren Mooney's.
Ah, cheers! I’m actually blushing. Thank you very much.
Wonderful intro, thank you and I love when things get adapted and change it to work for that audience. Power rangers was another good change, and some dubs to animations are very funny.
Nick kept hyping you up throughout various streams and I'll admit he was definitely right. This reminds me of a lot of the old MovieBob content pre-Pixels review where it was a lot more analysis as opposed to shouting. I missed this style of content.
This is really good stuff!
Awesome video!
Good introduction to a series I might find myself loving. I mostly started it to support the over all channel but found myself invested in the discussion immediately. Keep up the great work guys.
Cheers. It’s an incredible team to be part of.
Good luck with the new show Darren
Thank you! Fingers (and everything else) crossed.
The 2000s Godzilla is one of my favorite movies. I'm sure it's all nostalgia but I loved it.
Loved the video!
Thanks! Had fun making it!
Nick wasn’t lying Darren moony is a fantastic film critic.
I hope you revisit that video you did about the controversy over Superheroes killing Supervillains. I enjoyed that video and would rather not give the Escapist clicks to rewatch it.
I have been getting a bit fatigued by movie/TV analysis shows lately, but this was very well done. I'll be back 😊
You’re always welcome! Cheers!
I cant wait for Godzilla Minus One, that being said, as an 80s born, child of the 90s I have a real soft spot for Zilla from the 1998 movie and Godzilla: the animated series from 1978 because it started my love for the Godzilla Monsterverse .
Mothra is still my favrout though.