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On this day in 1954, the classic monster film Godzilla opened nationally in movie theaters across Japan. Tapping into anxieties brought on by nuclear testing by the United States in Japan’s backyard, Godzilla is known for its scenes of destruction and of terrified, fleeing crowds. In subsequent films, Godzilla’s terrifying nature mutated into something more awe-inspiring than evil, with the 150-foot dinosaur becoming a folk hero of sorts. Happy Godzilla Day!
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