“Yesterday’s” Comic> Godzilla #4 (Marvel)

The true story of the Exxon Valdez.

Godzilla #4

Marvel Comics (November, 1977)

Oil tankers are being attacked by the monster Batragon, powered by the “lifestone” under the control of Doctor Demonicus and his men, who have taken over an Eskimo village. He also has other monsters under his control…but not Godzilla, who attacks Batragon when he attacks a Liberian tanker, but Dum Dum assumes Godzilla is behind the attack and orders an attack. Demonicus prepares the monsters Godzilla hasn’t destroyed to take out the winner.

What they got right: The fights between Godzilla and Batragon look good even in black and white. I would love to see how they work in color. Since this is set in a superhero universe, it’s only right for Godzilla to deal with a supervillain and Demonicus fits the bill nicely.

What they got wrong: Previously I suggested that they’re setting Godzilla up like the Hulk. Well, I guess Dum Dum Dugan is going to be his “Thunderbolt” Ross, but would he be so dumb (no pun intended) to assume a base with a force field (through which he can’t see Demonicus’ kaiju army) has to be a S.A.C. base? He exists in a world of supervillains who have access to technology no military has, as does SHIELD. I don’t care how much he wants to take out Godzilla he shouldn’t be this stupid.

Other notes: This is the first appearance of Doctor Demonicus and his skeleton-clad crew. After dealing with Godzilla he would go on to deal with another Marvel-ised Japanese concept based on the Shogun Warriors toyline, a collection of toys based on Toei’s giant robots. Interestingly, a Godzilla and Rodan toy were produced for that line. A friend of mine used to have them and they were cool!

Recommendation: Still enjoying this comic and it’s certainly worth looking at for Godzilla fans and a must for Godzilla and Marvel crossover fans.

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• “Yesterday’s” Comic> Godzilla (Marvel) #1
• “Yesterday’s” Comic> Godzilla #2 (Marvel)
• “Yesterday’s” Comic> Godzilla #3 (Marvel)