Gammera the Invincible

♪ One day the devil came to him ♪ ♪ For he was a minor demon ♪ Asked him to torture some humans ♪ ♪ With his two friends in tow ♪ Mittens and El Sapo ♪ The Baron Mondo Von Doren ♪ On Nightmare Theatre - Look, Mittens, you're not following me.

See at first, it looked like a tragic accident.

One man was skateboarding down the street, while eating a chocolate bar.

Coming the opposite way, a woman was walking down the street, just minding her own business, eating peanut butter right outta the jar.

Of course there was a horrible collision.

Both the man and the woman were seriously injured.

But just before the man slipped into shock, he addressed the woman angrily, shouting, "You got peanut butter in my chocolate!"

And before she succumbed to blood loss she said, "You got chocolate in my peanut butter!"

In their last moments both managed to take a bite and, of course, it was magnificent.

Yes, they both died, but the inadvertent snack that they created lives on forever.

Oh wait, we're on, hey.

Hello, my friends, and welcome once again to Nightmare Theatre.

I'm you're host, the Baron Mondo Von Doren, and here with me is Mittens, the werewolf.

We were discussing great things that came from terrible accidents, while we await the biggest accident of all time, El Sapo de Tempesto, to arrive with tonight's movie.

I'm not sure where he could be.

He really ought to be-- - Sorry I'm late.

I was just finishing up the laundry.

Say, boss, you don't mind wearing pink under britches, do ya?

- Wait, what?

Nevermind.

As always I have a simple question for you.

Do you have a movie for this evening?

- [El Sapo] Ah, geez, you know what?

What, with the washer flooding at the laundromat, and my record breaking streak on the "Galaga" machine, I totally spaced out on a movie.

But hey, I started carrying this in my pocket at all times in case something like this happens.

It's another episode of "Radar Men From the Moon."

Which I'm still sad to say does not feature Gary Burghoff of TV's "M.A.S.H."

And that's blatant false advertising if you ask me.

- Just go find us a movie!

While the masked moron goes off to find a suitable film, why don't you folks watch this week's episode of Radar Men From the Moon.

It's as good a time killer as anything, I suppose.

(dramatic music) (tires screech) (dramatic music) - Stop on that bridge!

(dramatic music) (tires screech) (dramatic music) (tires screech) (smoke hisses) (dramatic music) (bridge booms) (water splashes) (dramatic music) - So the people on the moon are planning a direct attack on the world as soon as their saboteurs have softened up our defenses.

- What do you think their chances are of succeeding?

- You've seen what the ray guns have already done here.

If they send out a fleet of rocket ships, armed with atomic weapons like those, or perhaps even larger ones, it would be difficult to hold out against them.

- That's our best move would be to attempt an attack on the moon.

- We'd be at a terrific disadvantage.

I don't even see how we could land ships there in face of their ray guns.

- We just can't sit here and wait to be attacked.

- No, of course not.

Retik, the ruler, told me they plan to attack after their saboteurs here have accomplished their mission.

If we could round up the gang operating here we may stave off the attack until we are better prepared to meet it.

- Yes, it's certainly the first thing to do.

You know some of the saboteurs, don't you?

- Yes, well that is, by sight.

And my flying suit gives me a considerable advantage in running them down.

- Right.

I'll have you notified whenever there's another attack.

In the meantime, we'll put every available man on this case.

Goodbye, Cody.

- Goodbye, sir.

(suspenseful orchestral music) - I'll have this ray gun finished in a short time now, so you'd better arrange to get another truck to mount it in.

- Okay.

But I'll need some more money.

You'll have to sell some more of those jewels you brought down from the moon.

- I've only a few of them left and I must keep those for an emergency.

It will be necessary for you to take up your career of bank robbery.

- Not me.

I'm already on parole for that.

- I know.

But you would be wise to continue to obey my orders.

Your more recent activities would be of extreme interest to the authorities.

(suspenseful orchestral music) Will you need someone to help you?

- Yeah.

But they'll have to do the dirty work.

Of course I'll go along to check on 'em.

- Very well, make your arrangements at once.

Select a bank which is located in a not to heavily patrolled area.

(suspenseful orchestral music) (alarm blaring) - Something went wrong.

(alarm blares) Here they come.

(gun bangs) (woman screams) (engine roars) (man thuds) (alarm blares) - After that car.

Step on it!

(dramatic music) (gun banging) - We oughta lose 'em now, we're out of traffic.

(dramatic music) (gun banging) (dramatic music) (car thuds) (dramatic music) - But we must have more money.

You've got to get it somehow.

- Not by anymore bank jobs.

I'm too hot in that business now.

We'll have to figure out something else.

- I'll radio the moon.

Perhaps Retik can advise us.

(dramatic music) Krog calling Retik.

(dramatic music) Krog calling Retik.

Krog calling Retik.

- Come in, Krog.

- I have to report that our scheme for obtaining money was a failure, your excellency.

Can you suggest some plan that might be more successful?

- I think I can.

From what I hear of activities on Earth, kidnapping important persons and holding them for ransom has proved highly profitable.

Commando Cody, who flew his rocket ship to the moon, is very valuable to the defense organization of this country.

I suggest you select him.

- An excellent idea.

We shall carry it out at once.

- It'll be a rough deal, but a lot safer than robbing another bank.

- Of course, Commando Cody should be worth at least $100,000.

- Shall we bring him here?

- No.

Hire a plane and take him to.

(suspenseful orchestral music) - Where's Cody?

- Right over there.

(dramatic music) (gun rattles) (dramatic music) (punches thudding) (chair clatters) (punches thudding) (dramatic music) (thug thuds) (punches thudding) (dramatic music) (punches thudding) (scientist thuds) (suspenseful orchestral music) - Now will you tell us where Cody is?

- I don't know.

- Why don't we grab her and use her to trap Cody?

- That's an idea.

On your way, sister.

Wait a minute.

(suspenseful orchestral music) (engine rumbles) (suspenseful orchestral music) - What happened?

- Those same two men who wrecked the radar, they came after you.

- Where's Joan?

- I don't know.

Maybe they took her with them.

- Two men and a woman drove away from here just as I came in.

They were too far away to be recognized but it must've been them.

Police headquarters.

(dramatic orchestral music) (tires screeching) - Okay, I'll tell him.

- The police found out that the car went to the East Side airport.

A man took off with Joan in a charted plane.

They left just a few minutes ago.

- If I'm lucky I can catch them.

(suspenseful orchestral music) (suit whirs) (propellor rumbles) (dramatic music) - Don't get excited, sister.

I'll take care of him.

(dramatic music) (gun bangs) (dramatic music) (guns banging) (gun clicks) (gun bangs) (dramatic orchestral music) (door slams) - He rigged the controls.

(dramatic orchestral music) (plane thuds) (dramatic orchestral music) - Welcome back.

Well that was yet another episode of Radar Men From the Moon.

There really isn't much to say about it, is there?

Every week it's the same thing, over and over.

Speaking of things I'm over, I wonder where El Sapo is with tonight's movie.

- Hey, boss, here I am.

And you know what?

I think I may have found a good one tonight.

- I'll be the judge of that.

"Gammera the Invincible."

Well, I can't say that I hate this one.

I don't love it, but I don't hate it.

- So it's kinda how you look at me, right?

- Not at all.

- Well can you tell me what this movie is about, boss?

- Well, without spoiling it for you, it's about a giant, flaming turtle.

"Gammera the Invincible" was released in 1966 and has a pretty good cast.

There's character actor, Dick O'Neill, who you'll recognize from prime time TV staples like, Barney Miller, One Day at a Time, Cagney and Lacey, Falcon Crest, and more.

Some of you also might recognize Brian Donlevy, who has a huge resume of films dating back to 1923.

Some of the films he made are even classics, including 1939's Beau Geste, in which he was nominated for an Academy Award.

In addition to the Japanese actors that round out the cast, there's one more actor of note, Alan Oppenheimer, who plays Dr. Contrare in the film, who has a long career in TV and movies, and particularly, voice acting.

He played both Falkor in the film, NeverEnding Story, and Skeletor on TV's animated He-Man and the Masters of the Universe.

His most recent role was as Old Timer in Toy Story 4.

- So is this a good movie or not?

- I wouldn't say it's good necessarily, but it's an important film in the pantheon of Japanese kaiju films, which translates as strange beast.

It was the only Gammera film shot in black and white.

There have been 12 Gammera films since 1965, with the most recent released in 2006.

- Tell me more about this kaiju business.

I've never heard that word before.

But you know what?

I lady once called me a strange beast, now that I remember it.

- I bet.

Kaiju films are great, and very culturally significant in Japan.

Think of guys in giant, rubber, monster movie suits.

Some other kaiju characters that you may know, are Godzilla, Rodan, Mothra, and Gorgo, just to name a few.

- So tell me what happens in this particular movie, boss.

- Basically there's a lot of people bickering over whether Gammera is real, and then you'll see Gammera walking around breaking things.

And there's a guy with really, really, weird hair.

Even weirder than yours.

- Wow.

- Some film scholars swear he looks like a Japanese Colonel Sanders.

- Oh, I gotta see that, boss.

- Well let's get to it, then.

Sit back, relax as we present "Gammera the Invincible," here on Nightmare Theatre.

♪ Gammera ♪ Gammera ♪ Gammera, Gammera (planes whooshing) - [Narrator] A ship gropes through the ice fields of the arctic.

The expedition, with American and Canadian cooperation, seeks an open water route across the top of the continent.

Henry Hudson's fabled Northwest Passage.

There are no fables in the objective of Dr. A.J.

Hidaka, the expedition's zoologist, ashore with two companions to survey the life of the region, they approach an Eskimo village, innocently unaware of the fabulous experiences ahead of them.

- I'd hate live in cold like this all the time.

- [Woman] These people have developed special adaptations, Mr. Aoyagi.

- [Aoyagi] Uh-huh, well I hope my camera's don't freeze.

(wind whooshes) - Welcome, welcome.

We have heard of your expedition, doctor.

Welcome to Ookooloo, welcome.

- Look!

(planes roaring) - I think that those planes up there would make an interesting picture Mr. Aoyagi.

Don't you think so?

- Yeah.

- What are Russian jets doing here?

Water is almost a thousand miles to the west.

- I hope the shore party returns soon, sir.

I don't like the looks of things.

- Have the ice conditions changed?

- No sir, just a feeling.

Planes!

- [Man] There they are, about the port beam.

- [Captain] Well, notify air defense!

(planes roaring) (telegraph beeping) (planes roaring) (staff chattering) - Did I hear my name mentioned?

- You did.

Susan, we know you've marked yourself no trespassing, but you shouldn't stop a guy for trying.

Baby, it's cold outside.

- Ed's right, gorgeous.

You gotta thaw out.

Now there's a south sea island picture at the rec hall tonight.

Tropical shadows, dulcet sea ripples, muted mandolins, and me.

With popcorn yet.

Would you do me the honor?

- Maybe, if you'll keep your buttery claws to yourself, remember that airmen don't drool, they obey.

(typewriter clicking) - Excuse me, captain!

- Yes, sir, General.

Make it fast, Hopkins.

- This just came in.

- Thank you.

- What is it, Captain?

- General, I thought you'd better see these reports, they just came in, sir.

- Has this been confirmed?

- Yes, sir, we just intercepted a message from the Japanese explorer ship Jiteramaru.

- Thank you, Captain.

- What is it, what's wrong?

- Four UFOs headed towards our missile sites.

- Lovell, I want direct contact with air defense immediately.

- Yes, sir.

- Lieutenant, have there been similar reports from other command posts?

- No, sir.

- Well ride hard.

- Yes, sir.

- Clark.

- Yes, sir.

- I want you to get me General Arnold in Washington, pronto.

- Right away, sir.

- [Lovell] General, we've made contact with air defense.

- This is General O'Neill, do you read me?

- Yes, sir.

This is Hawk leader, Foster, affirmative.

- Foster, four unknowns have been traced to your area, altitude 4000 feet, flying north, northeast, a latitude of 84.27, east longitude 176.58.

You will intercept and conduct them to base.

If they resist, you will use plan skylark and destroy.

- Roger.

(planes roaring) - Captain, what is it?

Russian planes, and now Americans.

Trouble, huh?

- Real trouble, yes.

(planes roaring) - Well, Simpson?

- Still no reports of unknown from our other command posts, sir.

- Could be their planes have flown off course, general, it's happened before.

- Perhaps.

- Washington, sir, The White House.

The President, he was with General Arnold when the-- - No need to explain it, lieutenant.

O'Neill speaking.

Yes, Mr. President.

Yes, sir, that's exactly the way it is.

No sir, only if the unknowns resist.

Yes, sir, I quite agree with you.

Yes, sir, I will call you directly.

Red alert.

(dramatic music) (planes roaring) - [Pilot] Leader, bogeys dead ahead!

(planes screeching) Identify, identify.

What is your nationality and flight plan?

If you do not acknowledge we will open fire.

Identify.

Identify (planes roaring) Answer immediately.

What is your nationality and flight plan?

(missiles squeal) All planes prepare for action!

Fire!

(missiles squealing) (explosion roaring) (plane whistling) (explosion roaring) - Only a nuclear bomb could cause a blast like that.

- You're right.

It was one of those jets we saw.

And here I stand staring at that cloud when I ought to be taking the shot of the year.

A great news photographer I am.

- Yes, do you realize what would happen though should that cloud come toward us?

(dog howling) (ice cracking) (air whooshes) (suspenseful orchestral music) (dramatic music) (Gammera screeches) (dramatic music) - No, Mr. President.

I am aware of the need for restraint, sir.

Yes, sir, we'll stay on red alert until we receive further orders.

Goodbye, sir.

(typewriters clacking) Well the Russians insist their planes flew off course accidentally, electronic interference.

- Bull!

Excuse me sir, I mean they couldn't have mistaken the area.

I bet they were photographing our missile locations.

- Oh, one plane maybe, lieutenant, but not four.

No, headquarters believes they did fly off course accidentally, then realized what had happened, and fired on our planes in order not to be forced down.

Our boys have done it on occasion, lieutenant, we all know that.

Clark.

- Yes, sir.

- You had any luck on raising that Japanese ship?

- No sir, nor Air Defense since you ordered them back.

Our communication system is blacked out.

- The explosions, sir?

- It's unlikely there must be something else causing the interference.

Keep on trying, Clark.

- Yes, sir.

- (sighs) This just doesn't make sense.

Lovell, get more interceptors up there.

I want to find out what's going on.

- Yes, sir.

- Oh, Sergeant Embers.

- Yes, general?

- Would you get me a cup of coffee please?

Black, no sugar, and you better make another pot, looks like a long day.

- Yes, sir.

(radio whirring) - [Chief] What's the matter, Choko?

- I don't know, doctor.

I can't reach the ship or anyone else.

I can't get anything but static.

- [Aoyagi] Interference from the bomb, doctor?

- I would imagine so, we'd better start back at once!

- Right.

- Goodbye, chief.

Thank you, goodbye.

(dramatic music) - Wait, please, Dr. Hidaka.

You look, you take, is very old stone about cloud of death.

- [Hidaka] It's a primitive carving of a proto-chelonian.

- [Aoyagi] A what?

- An ancestral turtle like the leatherback.

Tell me, chief, is there a legend connected with this?

- Yes Old story of death and evil things that happened, of Gammera!

(dogs barking) - Gammera, you call it?

This Gammera is obviously an object of terror.

- There's a peculiar pattern in the background.

Looks almost like waves, doesn't it?

- Let's ask the chief.

Is that what they are?

- I do not know, only that it is evil and very frightening.

- I see.

I have a feeling that this is something very significant.

- And that pattern symbolic of something else?

- Yes, I believe it is.

This is not the usual way that Eskimos depict the sea.

- But what else could it be?

I mean turtles live in water, so that would make sense.

- Well perhaps you're right.

Still I think there's much more to this than meet the eye.

(ice cracking) (suspenseful orchestral music) - The cloud is spreading.

- But why should any of those planes be carrying an atomic bomb?

- They don't trust each other, that's why they stay on the alert.

- Look there.

(dramatic music) (ice creaking) (Gammera screeching) - We're under attack!

- Emergency!

- Helmsman, take her full stern!

(dramatic orchestral music) (ship creaks) (machines beeping) - [Man] Abandon ship!

All hands, abandon ship!

- Any luck?

- No sir, all our frequencies appear to be jammed.

- Then forget it, abandon ship.

- Right.

Abandon ship!

(dramatic music) (Gammera screeching) - Quick, get out of here!

(men shouting) - Clear the bridge!

- Abandon ship, forget the helm.

- But Captain!

- Get out of here!

Hurry!

(dramatic orchestral music) - [Man] Chucky, keep going, hurry.

(machines beeping) (dramatic music) (ship thudding) (Gammera growls) (fire hisses) (dramatic orchestral music) - General O'Neill.

We've been able to contact Captain Foster, sir.

He reports the Chidori Maru destroyed.

All that remains is a huge crack in the ice, and debris.

- What?

- No sign of survivors.

- Now Foster said that ship was beyond the area of the explosion.

Now, what happened?

- Well, sir, I don't exactly know how to explain his report, it's just that, well sir, he says-- - All right, Lovell, this is no time to get tongue-tied.

Now let's hear it!

- Captain Foster insists that after he was separated from his group, he saw a giant turtle walking away from the area where the Chidori Maru was last sighted.

A huge creature 150, maybe 200 feet tall.

He circled the area to take another look, but it was gone, as if it had blown away.

Now, that's what he says, sir.

- The captain's kidding, a giant turtle?

He must've been working too hard.

That's one we haven't heard before.

- All right, sergeant, get back to your duties.

- Yes, sir.

- Now look, Lovell, I don't know what the hell is going on here, but we're gonna find out.

Now I want a full report on this hallucination, and I also want a helicopter over that disaster area to see if there any survivors.

Maybe there's some people ashore, and whatever happened, happened.

Sergeant Embers.

- Yes, sir.

- I want you to contact General Yadisaki in Tokyo.

Now inform him of what has happened, that we're doing all possible to rescue survivors.

Also, General Arnold in Washington, tell him it is absolutely imperative that he meet me.

Coded instructions will follow.

- Yes, sir.

- (sighs) A giant turtle.

(dramatic music) - [Announcer] And now back to the second half of the discussion and your host, Mr. Standish.

- Hello, I am J.T.

Standish along with my guests, the noted zoologist, Dr. Emerich Contrare, author of "The Factual Basis of Legends."

And on my right, this network's genial science editor, author of such books as "Non-Science or Nonsense," Jules Manning.

Our subject, the giant turtle Gammera.

Certainly one of the most controversial subjects of our time.

Dr. Contrare, earlier in our program you stated the belief that Gammera could, in fact, exist.

While Mr. Manning disagreed, rather vigorously.

- And I still do.

This theory of Dr. Hidaka's is pure science fiction.

A figment of an unbridled imagination.

- Mr. Manning, any theory until proven appears unbelievable to the ignorant.

Dr. Hidaka's conclusions are based upon a life study.

Now let me restate that turtles, porpoises, or scientifically, Chelonians, appear constantly in the most ancient texts.

Oh, for example, the Greek turtle in mythology that lived in fire and also the pyrobola of Pliny.

- What are you trying to prove doctor?

- And that to a scholar, there is more than just a casual basis for Dr. Hidaka's conclusions.

We know for a fact that a mere million years ago or so, the gigantic Colossochelys atlas plodded over the hills of Northern India, the largest turtle ever known, a link to the more distant past.

Now how gigantic were turtles a hundred million years ago, or even 200 million years ago?

- I'd like to discuss the conflicting newspaper reports-- - So you and the eminent Dr. Hidaka conclude that this Gammera creature has been hibernating underground for 200 million years, until now, when he decides to take a stroll?

(laughs) Oh, Dr. Contrare, you do have a sense of humor.

- I'm simply advancing the theory that the great granddaddy of all turtles could have reappeared.

Released from its tomb of ice by the explosion of the bomb.

Now you may blithely ignore the statements of Dr. Hidaka, if you wish, however, I note that you haven't offered a more reasonable explanation for the total destruction of the Chidori Maru.

- If you'll get down from your pulpit for one minute, I'd like to ask you why Washington is so silent about all this?

Or do you know more about it than the government?

- It would not be the first time Washington has kept the truth from the public, whether it be flying saucers or Gammera.

- Oh so now you believe in flying saucers along with 200 feet turtles that survive atomic bomb explosions?

Of course, we all know there really is a Santa Claus.

Oh, Dr. Contrare, every time you bray, you make a bigger jackass of yourself.

- Jules, please, we're on the air.

- Mr. Standish, I demand an apology.

I've devoted my life to science.

- Gentlemen.

- You'll get no apology from me, Contrare!

- You have no scholarships to back your arguments.

You have no arguments, only invective.

Read, read, read!

Read Virgil's "Eclogue," read "Paradise Lost."

- The ravings of a lunatic.

- Read of the "Pyrites," the fire without and the frost within.

Read you ignorant ape!

Read what intelligent men have written for thousands of years!

- What did he call me?

- Wait, Jules, please.

- He called me an ape!

- Gentlemen, quiet.

- Not merely ape, ignorant ape.

- Why you!

- Remember the-- - How dare you call me an ape?

Where'd you get your diploma?

Made in Japan?

- Ladies and gentlemen, I'm afraid that we ran out of time.

(men yelling) I hope we can do this again, next week for another heated discussion.

I can't tell you who the guests will be, but you be here.

- (laughs) This is Alan Oppenheimer, Skeletor, and you're watching "Nightmare Theatre."

- I hope you're enjoying tonight's movie.

I'm not one for insults, but, boy, those two are certainly creating a hostile work environment, aren't they?

It's a shame a simple discussion over a simple matter had to degenerate into childish name-calling, and shameless overacting.

Sapo, you're often wrong in the office, what did you make of that scene?

- Hmm?

Oh, I wasn't really paying that much attention.

It just looked like two guys yelling at each other.

The topic was the existence of this Gammera character.

And all of a sudden they were yelling at each other.

But, boss, I gotta tell ya, I was checking the suggestion box and it looks like Mittens has submitted a request.

- Wait, we have a suggestion box?

- Yeah, looks like it.

- Well, we're in the middle of something right now, can it wait?

- I don't think so.

It looks like Mittens really wants to switch up the weekly menu.

He says it's very important that the current weekly menu is not adequate or proper.

- That's insane.

- He doesn't think so.

- What does he wanna do?

- Well first, he's advocating a switch in terms of our dinner schedule.

He wants to move jellyfish popovers from Monday night to Tuesday night.

But as you know, Tuesday night is already sardine pot pie night.

And I'm not even gonna tell you what he wants to do with fish stick Fridays.

He says that would be better and he has submitted a treatise on why that is.

- This is ridiculous.

I created and crafted this menu plan and I'm a certified menu expert.

Let's see his menu making degree.

Was it purchased by mail?

- He disagrees with you, boss, rather vigorously, and he still does, apparently.

- Look, I'm an expert and he's not.

The menu is based on an ancient method that was vetted by some of history's greatest thinkers!

- He disagrees, apparently.

- I see.

Well I would suggest that Mr. Fancypants peruse my cookbooks and read my monthly food blog.

Read it!

Read it, you ignorant ape!

Read what intelligent men like me have written for thousands of years on the subject of menu planning!

- Boss, that's a little unfair calling him an ape, you know he is a werewolf?

- I didn't call him an ape, I called him an ignorant ape!

And I demand an apology.

I devoted my life to menu planning!

- He says, "You'll get no apologies from him."

He says, "Breakfast for dinner works better on Saturday than Sunday, "and any fool, like you, can see that."

- He's got nothing to back up his arguments.

In fact, he's got no argument, only invective!

- What does that word mean, boss?

- Oh boy, you're as dumb as he is.

- Well maybe we can table this discussion on dinner, and instead focus on breakfast.

Looks like he wants to switch his pancakes to waffles, and bacon to turkey bacon.

- We'll do nothing of the kind!

Let's just get back to the movie while I regain my composure.

Turkey bacon?

That's insanity!

(plane roaring) - Would you care for a magazine or newspaper, sir?

- Oh thanks, very kindly.

- You're welcome, sir.

- Do you suppose there's any connection between this and what happened to the Chidori Maru, doctor?

- I'm personally inclined to believe there is yes, although we don't know what happened to the ship.

And then the radio blackout, was that mere coincidence?

- And those reports General O'Neill told us about, Dr. Hidaka, I think there is a connection between them somehow.

- I'm sure of it.

And far-fetched as it seems, I'm convinced all this has something to do with Gammera.

- You mean you believe such a beast might really exist?

Of course you're the scientist and I am just a layman doctor, but still after all, except for the pilots report and the Eskimo stone, there's really nothing to go on.

- Still you can't just discount all that evidence.

- No, you can't.

To do so is just dangerous and foolish.

I'm afraid Gammera is real.

A creature like that, you realize the amount of damage it could cause?

- Of course I do.

In civilized areas it would be capable of destroying whole towns.

(Nobuyo gasps) - Mm-hmm.

Well you convinced me, doctor, anyway.

- [Hidaka] Let's hope General Arnold can convince the people in Washington.

(dramatic music) - All right, miss, will you take this downtown?

Jones, type up the report if you get it.

Thank you very much.

- Hanover.

Gentlemen.

I think we know why we're here.

Let us not waste any time.

General Arnold, we'd appreciate your report.

- Yes, sir.

In addition to our initial findings, huge footprints, not unlike those of a turtle, leading from the area of the explosion to the exact spot of the destruction of the ship, and also where Captain Foster of our air defense claims he saw the giant turtle.

And during the last 13 hours we have sieved reliable sightings of flying saucers, all fitting the identical description, starting over Nome, Alaska, proceeding to Saskatchewan, on to Toronto, London, Munich, Warsaw, and now Moscow.

- General are you inferring that these sightings of UFOs are related to the reports of a giant turtle?

A horrendous monster right out of mythology?

- I'm inferring nothing, senator.

I'm reporting facts as we know them.

And I might add that if UFO continues its pattern it will be sighted next over Japan.

I would estimate in five or six hours, or shortly before Dr. Hidaka is scheduled to land at Tokyo.

- Dr. Hidaka?

Does he have some standing in world science councils?

I've never heard of him, and I'm considered expert enough to head committees on nuclear fission and the like.

This man should not be permitted to terrify the world with such distortions, unless he is qualified to throw some light, some ray of light on these incredible reports.

- The point is that Dr. Hidaka is eminently qualified.

I have examined all the reports, including the transcript of a conversation between General Arnold and Dr. Hidaka, shortly after the zoologist was rescued by one of our helicopters.

It is evident that he is a logical man and one who relies on facts.

And from what he learned about Gammera as a result of his research, and the evidence at the scene of destruction, I respect his conclusions, whether his knowledge is derived from science or mythology, both extensive.

- Mr. Secretary, you must agree that until more logical explanations are available the public should not be informed of this factual evidence of supposed footprints of supposed monsters.

- That decision was made by the Commander in Chief.

I do know that if Gammera exists and did survive an atomic explosion, our world is about to face a calamity of enormous proportions - Well I, for one, will not be cold-pressed by this schoolboy myth of flaming dragons, And frankly, Mr. Secretary, I am disturbed.

I am deeply disturbed to see that you have decided to go along with these alarmists.

- Are you, senator?

Well from the facts, I am quite concerned, deeply concerned, and so is the president.

General Arnold, has Dr. Hidaka offered any advice?

- No sir, there was none he could offer, until he knows more about the creature.

- Gentlemen, I think we're in for a time of it.

General Arnold you're relieved of all duties at the command post, and will take this assignment, the Gammera operation.

Report directly to me.

- Yes, sir.

- Now, gentlemen, if you will excuse us, the president is waiting.

- The only three known survivors of the ill-fated exploration ship, Chidori Maru, Dr. A.J.

Hidaka and his two companions, will arrive in Tokyo tomorrow.

(man singing in foreign language) (metallic whistling) (man gasps) (man speaking foreign language) (Gammera whirring) (speaking in foreign language) (waves crashing) - [Owega] Ms. Sakurai.

- Ah, Mr. Owega, good afternoon.

- Good afternoon, I was on my way to see you.

- What's wrong, has Toshio been misbehaving at school?

- No, not really misbehaving exactly.

Here look at this.

- [Nobuyo] Oh no, not more turtles.

- Yes.

It would seem your brother has some sort of obsession about turtles, Ms. Sakurai.

I know how children are, they all love to collect pets and things, but this goes beyond that, so I thought I ought to see you.

- You mean it's interfering with his work?

- So much so, that if he continues he could be expelled.

Of course I understand how lonely it is for him in that lighthouse out there without any friends.

- Uh-huh.

Oh yes, it is very hard on a little boy, isn't it?

- Yes, I know it is.

Still you will speak to him about doing better at school, won't you?

- Uh-huh.

And I'm so sorry he has caused you this trouble.

Good day.

- Not at all, good day.

(Nobuyo sighs) - Toshio and his silly turtles.

Did you rest well father?

(man moans) Do you like working at night?

- [Father] Well there's not much need for lighthouses during the day, is there?

(laughs) - [Nobuyo] No.

- May I be excused?

- Toshio?

Come here.

What are you up to, Toshio?

Are you going to feed your turtle?

(sighs) Oh father.

- Yes?

- [Nobuyo] Could you come here a second?

- Yes, what is it?

Toshio, your sister and I understand your love for your pet turtle, but we want to talk to you about it.

Come out here.

- Come, Toshio.

You have to learn to make friends with people, as well as animals, Toshio.

Your turtle is very nice but you have to have other friends too.

- Mm-hmm, set him free Toshio.

It would be better for him to return to the lake and better for you to forget about turtles.

- Listen, if you promise to get rid of that turtle I think father will buy you something.

Anything you like.

- Mm-hmm, yes, I will.

- Hmm?

- [Father] What would you like most, Toshio?

Tell me.

- You want me to tell you what I would really like?

- What is it, Toshio?

- Yes, tell us, what is it?

- To keep it.

- Toshio, I want you to set him free.

If you don't, I'll do it for you.

It would be a lot nicer, wouldn't it, if you went out yourself and let him go?

Listen to me, Toshio, I realize that this may seem cruel, it is, but I'm doing it for your sake.

- You do understand, don't you?

- Mm-hmm.

(solemn music) Goodbye.

Don't go in the ocean, stay where I put you.

(somber music) (dramatic music) - Toshio!

- [Toshio] Nobuyo!

- What is it, why are you running?

- Look!

- Look at what, the ocean?

(laughs) Go to bed now.

(earth rumbles) - Earthquake!

Nobuyo.

Toshio.

Are you all right?

- No, it's not an earthquake, look.

(Nobuyo gasps) (Gammera roars) - Gammera!

- Gammera!

- Run for your lives!

Toshio!

Toshio, come back!

Toshio!

(Gammera roars) (dramatic music) (Gammera roars) (lighthouse clatters) Toshio!

- [Toshio] Papa-san!

- Toshio!

(Toshio grunts) (dramatic music) (Gammera screeching) - I can't hold on, I can't!

(gasps) I'm falling!

Papa-san!

- Toshio!

(dramatic music) Toshio!

- [Nobuyo] Toshio.

Oh.

- Toshio!

Toshio.

(dramatic music) (Gammera roars) Toshio!

Toshio!

- Toshio, wake up.

Wake up.

- Wake up son.

Toshio!

(Toshio gasps) - Are you all right?

- Sure I'm all right.

That big turtle's Gammera.

- Yes, but he's gone.

- Apparently he's gone back in the ocean.

- But how did I get down here on the ground?

- It was in miracle, Toshio.

Gammera caught you and put you down.

- Huh?

Gammera put me down?

- Yes.

You're safe, you're safe.

Thank goodness.

- Uh-huh.

- Nightmare Theatre salutes Tokyo, Japan, population, one very angry, flaming turtle, and a kid a who apparently loves him.

- [All] Salute!

(lightning cracks) (upbeat rock music) - Now listen to me, you're not following me.

Ozzy Osbourne was the lead singer of Black Sabbath - He was?

- And then he left, became a solo artist, and then Ronnie James Dio became the lead singer -- - Say hello to my little friend!

of Black Sabbath.

Whoa, whoa, once again, we're gonna have to talk about this.

I don't know if this is in your lease that you can have weapons in here.

I mean, that's a nice looking gun.

Oh, hello again, welcome back.

And we're here with the Curator from the Merrill Movie Museum.

Once again we've made our way down to the sub, sub, sub, sub basement here at the TV station.

And, Curator, take it away.

What do we have tonight?

- So this little baby is a hero Necromonger rifle from "The Chronicles of Riddick."

Now, when we're talking about props and we say the word "hero" that doesn't necessarily mean that it's the piece that was used by the hero.

That means it's meant to be seen up close on screen.

So there's a lot more detail that's put into a piece like this because at some point it's going to be seen.

- By everybody.

- 20 feet high, close up on screen.

So you can look at this piece and just see the amount of intricate work.

This is real metal, this isn't rubber or plastic, or anything like that that you would see on something like a background piece.

All this is real metal with all kinds of detailed little decoration, real plastic tubing going through here.

The other thing that makes this particular piece very interesting, of course you've got the rifle, so we got the stock on it as well, but it lights up.

- [Baron] Oh my gosh.

- That was build with a lighting effect in it that they would then enhance in the film using computer graphics or whatever other forms of special effects-- - Using movie magic.

- Yeah, obviously it doesn't shoot an actual beam.

- It'd be perfect.

- The core lights up and you'd be able to look at this very close on screen and not be taken out of the film by looking like it was something that was just cheap background piece.

- So you say it, like, a hero piece is up close, people are gonna see that, so in the background they would make things that were probably plastic or something like that that would be used by lesser characters that maybe wouldn't be right up front.

- Right, right, depending on how the piece was going to be used, they may designate something a stunt piece, which are generally lighter weight, or you may be actually able to hit somebody with it without hurting them, depending on what the needs of the stunt were.

And then you'd have background pieces that were made maybe to be in a holster, or to be held by somebody in the background that's not gonna be seen close up on screen.

And the variety of things then tell the prop department, okay, this we need to make look really good, this, it just needs to look like there's a gun there.

- How many of these would they have made for a movie?

- It depends on how many characters they needed to show up close at one time.

But not a lot.

- Not a lot.

- Yeah, there'd be a lot more background or stunt pieces than there would hero pieces.

- If I had one of these I'd get attention at the DMV, wouldn't I?

- (laughs) Yeah, if you are into prop collecting, when you know you're looking at a hero piece, you know you're looking at something that would've been used probably by a lead actor, or at least an actor that was gonna be shown very close up on screen.

- In this case the lead actor would've been Greg Evigan?

- No, close, Vin Diesel.

They get mistaken for each other all the time.

But this would've been the villain's piece so Riddick wouldn't've used this particular piece but he would've been the lead actor in those films.

- And so who comes up with the initial design for something like this?

- Generally speaking there'd be some kind of pre-visualization department that would do concept art, that would come up with concepts and then take them to the director and the director would will say "I want that."

They'll go out and they'll build that.

The director will then say, "Yeah, that works," or, "No, go back the drawing board."

Sometimes you do get prototype pieces that are made.

But eventually the director gets something in his hands that he likes and that goes on screen.

- It's obviously very, very detailed, so are there people that's what their job is, they just specialize in making these sorts of pieces?

- Oh yeah, absolutely.

There are craftsmen that anything that you see on screen there's somebody that specializes in that.

Whether it be weapons, whether it be costumes, whether it be set design.

There are not only people that specialize in those things, they have their own guilds, they have their own unions, and they have their own awards.

- And so to make something like this work on screen you're gonna have the physical prop, you're gonna have somebody who's gonna put in the digital effects to make a beam come out, or whatever's gonna happen with it, you have someone who's gonna design the sound for it.

So it takes a lot to get a movie together, not the movies that we show, but a lot of movies they have to do a lot of work to make something look really, really good and real on screen.

- And that's not to mention the actors that have to actually make it look convincing, that they're using something real.

- And the director has to tell them what he wants, it's a whole involved process that when we see it on the screen it never really occurs to us how much work has actually gone into this.

So when you see a movie and it looks good, that's what happened, all of these people got together, they all worked together and they created something great for the screen.

Tonight's a pretty good movie, so let's get back to the movie here, on Nightmare Theatre.

- [Man] Good evening, Dr. Hidaka.

- Dr. Hidaka, would you answer a few questions?

Do you know what General-- - No, I do not.

- You and General Dean, you didn't speak to him?

- [Woman Over PA] Attention please, will Dr. Hidaka, arriving on PanAmerican flight 819, please report to the desk for a message.

- [Men] Thank you doctor.

- [Woman Over PA] Dr. Hidaka, please report.

- A call for you sir.

- Thank you.

- Hello, Hidaka speaking.

Uh-huh.

Why, of course, I'm practically on my way.

That was Professor Murase in Hokkaido.

Gammera was seen there by a number of reliable witnesses.

- Hokkaido?

- Yes, we leave immediately.

- Yes, sir.

- [Radio Announcer] The Scout planes have not yet been able to locate Gammera, who is now definitely known to be on or near Hokkaido.

Please stay tuned for continuing announcements and bulletins.

- It's dreadful, isn't it?

- Where's Toshio, in bed?

- Yes, he'd had quite an evening.

- We all have.

(gentle music) - It's me, come on out of there.

I know why.

I bet Gammera scared you but he's gone.

(dramatic music) (building rumbles) - Did you feel that tremor?

- What's so unusual?

They have them all the time here.

- Yeah, but not that rough.

- Ah.

(plane rumbling) - I've spotted Gammera.

Yes, he's headed for the geothermal-- (radio squeals) (groans) Something must be wrong, I'm getting nothing but a high-frequency noise.

(building rumbles - Another tremor!

What's going on?

- [Man] What is it?

- [Man] An earthquake.

- [Man] Or steam explosion.

- Good evening Captain.

- Good evening.

- I'm Dr. Hidaka of Tokyo University, how do you do?

- I'm Kyoko Yiamoto, his assistant.

- How do you do?

And who is this?

- [Aoyagi] Oh I'm a Aoyagi, Nito Press.

- I'm afraid I'll have to ask you to leave, the press is barred.

- Captain, just a moment.

Perhaps you could make an exception, captain, in the case of Mr. Aoyagi here.

I feel he can make a worthwhile contribution to our efforts here.

He's been with us from the start, and I value his opinion very highly.

- Very well, sir, you can stay.

- Thank you.

- Explain the situation.

- At 19:30 hours, Gammera destroyed the lighthouse at Arima here, then he disappeared.

But then within the last 10 minutes he was spotted near the geothermal power plant by aerial reconnaissance.

- Geothermal power plant?

- Allow me to explain, doctor.

In a volcanic area such as this, there are many natural steam vents or fumaroles pouring out steam at about 1,000 degrees.

This tremendous natural energy has been harnessed to generate electricity.

- [Hidaka] I see, then there is superheated vapor at 1,000 degrees issuing from the ground there.

- Exactly, sir.

- Excuse me, Dr. Hidaka.

Steam that hot could kill a person instantly, could it not?

- Yes.

- Then why can't we use that steam to destroy Gammera?

- I don't think it would work, Captain.

You mustn't forget, that atomic bomb generated far greater heat and yet Gammera was able to survive.

- Dr. Hidaka, what is there that could stop Gammera then?

- Don't know.

what's the maximum output of that gun?

- 350,000 kilowatts - 350,000.

It might just work.

(tank whirring) (metal groaning) - [Man] Red scarf calling red leader.

Red scarf calling red leader.

- This is red leader.

- [Man] All units ready to attack.

- Standby, over.

(truck rumbling) They are ready to attack now, Dr. Hidaka.

- Captain, please hold off the attack for a while.

Let's try my plan first.

- Yes, sir.

- Ah, doctor, we're ready, sir.

(Gammera screeching) - [Man] Guess you're ready Hidaka.

- Look, he's getting close to the wires.

- Ready, close all circuits.

(levers banging) Standby for signal for full discharge.

(Gammera screeching) (electricity crackling) - Look, it didn't even slow him down.

- Yes, this was a mistake.

Captain, you'd better give the order to attack.

- Yes, sir.

(Gammera screeching) Open fire.

(explosions booming) (Gammera roars) (explosion booms) (rockets whooshing) (electricity crackles) (bullets thudding) (concrete cracking) (explosions booming) (electricity crackles) (explosions booming) (Gammera screeching) (wind whooshing) (explosions booming) (Gammera screeching) Doctor, it looks like he's eating it.

- Yes, he is.

Captain, call off the attack.

He's invulnerable, don't you see?

- Yes, sir, but what-- - Evacuate the area!

At least all of the civilians, and arrange for a car at once.

I must consult with Professor Murase urgently.

- Immediately.

(fire crackling) (somber orchestral music) - [Murase] He actually ingested the fire?

- [Hidaka] Yes.

- Hm.

Well the legends of fire-breathing monsters like the chimera and dragons, have persisted through the ages, still it's astounding to discover such a creature really exists.

- Yes, it is.

Is Gammera really invulnerable, professor?

- That I don't know.

I've made one conclusion.

- What?

- Obviously his metabolism is not like ours.

It is not only conceivable but entirely likely that his cell structure differs radically from known life forms.

- For instance, silicon or metallic elements replacing carbon in his tissues.

- Precisely.

And that would explain his fire eating and his invulnerability to electric shock, heat, and concussion.

- Yes, I agree with you completely, professor, but that doesn't bring us any nearer to a solution, does it?

- This pattern is very peculiar.

They look like waves and yet I don't think they are.

- Yes, they're obviously symbols of some sort.

- I don't think they're rhythmic enough for waves.

Doctor, it would be very useful if we could decipher this.

(planes roaring) (Gammera screeching) (explosions booming) (planes roaring) - It's no use, sir.

Our weapons do not really slow him down.

Nothing short of an atom bomb will do any good.

- You're right, let me talk to General Yotobashi.

- Yes, sir.

(suspenseful orchestral music) - We understand your problem and we will do everything we can, you can be assured of it.

Thank you.

We have just received a request from General Yotobashi for the use of our missiles.

Up until now every armament that we have provided them hasn't done any good.

- Our missiles?

But that means getting approval of our allies.

Mr. Secretary, have you consulted the president of these decisions?

- I have and he has given me complete authority to implement any moves that we may take.

General Arnold, get to it.

- Thank you, sir.

- Now gentlemen, I think we'd better order in some lunch.

We're apt to be here for some time.

If you don't mind, senator.

(tanks whirring) - Good evening, Professor Murase.

- Good evening.

Situation about the same?

- Yes, sir.

It's about to be changed at any moment though.

The Americans are going to attack Gammera with nuclear missiles.

- A message from General Dean, sir, the American missiles are ready.

- Good, clear the area.

- No wait, listen.

The missiles won't do any good.

It's more likely they'll serve as a source of energy.

- All right, if you say so.

Well what we do instead, doctor?

(suspenseful music) - Sir.

- Yes, what is it?

- We've completed the evacuation, sir, except for patrol units.

- Very good, carry on.

Professor Murase, what can we do?

- I don't know since our most powerful weapons are useless.

Dr. Hidaka, do you have any ideas?

- What?

It's not even an idea, just a thought that occurred to me.

We assume Gammera is invulnerable, obviously with a great deal of justification, but Gammera is vulnerable to cold.

Remember he was frozen in the ice until the bomb released him.

- Yes, of course.

We must devise a means of freezing Gammera.

- Dr. Hidaka, Professor, the army may have the answer.

Our scientists have developed a freezing bomb to use in fires in nuclear reactors.

- [Kyoko] Captain, you mean the army has a bomb that will freeze things?

- Yes.

Though it's still in the experimental stage.

I believe we can use it, although there is one serious drawback.

The gases that they use in this as a refrigerant, dissipate in 10 minutes.

- I see.

Hm, still, these bombs are there enough for our purpose?

- I believe there's an adequate supply, sir.

- This may be the answer.

There isn't too much time.

Do you suppose you can arrange it?

- It's urgent.

- I believe so, sir, yes.

I'll get started on it immediately.

(plane roaring) - This is Nightwatch patrol.

Gammera is now leaving power plant heading for mountains.

(radars beeping) - It should be easier out there.

- Yes, it should.

The planes will be able to attack from all sides.

(dramatic music) - Gammera is now on Shoshima Ridge, heading for Devil's Spring area.

- Roger.

That's a big resort area.

We have to attack now before he gets there.

- Hurry, forget the bumps.

- Yes, sir.

(dramatic music) - May I have your attention please?

The effect of the freezing bomb doesn't last very long, 10 minutes, which means that your work has to be completed within that time.

So everyone please remember, when you plant the dynamite be quick but be careful.

We won't get another chance.

Thank you and good luck.

- Shall I give the signal, doctor?

- Please.

(missile whistling) (dramatic orchestral music) (planes roaring) (Gammera screeching) (explosions booming) - [Murase] Look, it's working.

- You're right, his movements are getting slower.

(dramatic orchestral music) - Look, the bomb doing the trick.

- Dr. Hidaka, almost a minute is gone.

- Right, thanks.

- Come, doctor.

On the double!

(dramatic orchestral music) (drill rumbling) (dramatic orchestral music) - Look, Gammera's beginning to move.

- Do they have enough time left to plant that dynamite?

- How much time?

- Only three minutes.

(dramatic music) - [Man] Only one minute, Captain.

- [Captain] Right.

Clear out, take cover!

Watch your fuses!

- [Man] Let's get out of here!

- [Captain] On the double!

- [Man] Hurry up!

- [Captain] Come on, move out.

(men shouting) 30 seconds!

(Gammera screeching) - 10 minutes are nearly up now.

(Gammera groans) That's it, the time's up, doctor.

- I know.

- Stand by.

- Yes, sir.

- Down, Kyoko.

- Don't worry, we're all ready.

Fire!

(explosions booming) (Gammera screeches) (Gammera thuds) - Look, he's down and he's on his back.

- Luckily we've got him now, huh?

- Yes, because with Gammera, as with any other turtle, once he's on his back he can't get up again.

We're very lucky that your freezing bomb has worked as well as it did.

Dr. Hidaka, I think we've done it!

(soldiers cheering) - Dr. Hidaka, it looks like your plan has succeeded.

- Yes.

And in a month or so from now he'll be just another zoological specimen.

- Uh-huh.

(soldiers cheering) - Look, he's putting his legs and head back in his shell.

- He knows he's licked, that's what you call turning turtle.

(men laughing) (fire hissing) - Look, an amazing adaptation.

(Gammera whirring) - The Eskimo stone.

Do you have it, Kyoko?

- Yes, sir, right here.

- That's it, now I understand the pattern, Professor Murase.

Those lines are meant to represent clouds, you see.

A primitive but graphic attempt to show that Gammera can fly.

(dramatic music) (gavel banging) - Gentlemen, Gammera must be stopped.

God knows where he'll strike next.

So far the American weapons have been completely ineffective, and the Japanese radar systems offer barely enough warning to evacuate the civilian populations.

We must now work as one cohesive unit with one objective, creating a plan to destroy Gammera before he destroys civilization.

General Arnold.

- Thank you, sir.

Both Dr. Hidaka and Dr. Murase are convinced that Gammera is continually on the hunt for food.

There is some chemical substance in our fuel that it needs to exist, possibly the same chemical substance it consumed over 200 million years ago.

In the beginning, in the Earth's atmosphere, there was less than a small part of 1% of oxygen that we with lungs need to live, the other creatures existed on the sustenance of sulfur compounds in their seething earth.

Now as oxygen increased in the world's atmosphere living things started to develop lungs.

Now Gammera is of the prior period, possibly the last survivor.

This all came within the radii of our microscopes, but the existence of Gammera is living proof that they were not all single-celled creatures.

- Do you mean it literally eats fire?

- Yes, the beast actually eats fire.

- That's incredible.

(men chattering) - This may explain why he's most destructive when he's unable to satisfy his ravenous appetite and least destructive when he's gorging himself at some oil refinery or a fuel reserve.

Now that may be the key to any plan that we come up with.

If we can keep Gammera in one location long enough, we may gain the time we need.

- Thank You, general.

This conference is now open to discussion.

I recognize the representative from the Soviet Union.

- I've been authorized by my government to offer complete cooperation.

Our nation's resources, scientists, and armed forces are at your disposal.

- [Secretary Of Defense] The American ambassador.

- The United States government takes the identical position.

To save time gentlemen I move for unanimous agreement.

- Would all those in favor say "aye."

- [All] Aye.

- So be it.

- [Kyoko] Here's another one from Paris.

(dramatic music) Gammera has been sighted all over the world but only in the air.

- [Hidaka] Yes, apparently his experience with the freezing bomb frightened and disturbed him.

- Yes.

- [Hidaka] But what happens when he gets hungry again?

(rapid knocking) See who it is.

- Yes, sir.

Come in, please.

- How do you do?

I'm Nobuyo Sakurai and this is my brother Toshio.

- How do you do?

- Good afternoon, sir.

- Good afternoon.

- And I am the doctor's assistant.

These are the Sakurai's from the Arima lighthouse, doctor.

I asked them to come when I heard that they were in Tokyo.

- Yes.

- Sightseeing?

- Not exactly, you see our home was destroyed.

They're rebuilding everything now and since there is no place nearby where we can stay, why, Toshio and I have come to visit our uncle here in Tokyo.

- Oh yes, I understand.

- Yes, but as long as you are here Toshio, you mustn't miss the sightseeing.

See that right there?

That is the Tokyo Tower.

- Dr. Hidaka.

- Yes?

- Is Gammera going to return?

- Well, let us hope that he doesn't return here.

He's very dangerous.

- Gammera saved my life, I hope he's all right.

He doesn't mean to be dangerous, he's just so big and clumsy, that's all.

- He goes overboard when it comes to turtles.

- I like turtles, that's all.

I bet Gammera's lonesome too, wherever he is.

Even a turtle doesn't like to be alone.

If people were kind to Gammera, I bet he could be trained to be nice and quiet like other turtles.

(light music) I wonder where he is now?

- Good night, Toshio.

I think Dr. Hidaka was very nice to explain everything, don't you?

And at least you realize now how dangerous Gammera really is.

Listen, I think tomorrow you and I should go sightseeing.

Hm?

Uh-huh?

Toshio?

Sound asleep already, goodnight.

Little turtle.

- Hello, welcome back.

We hope you're enjoying "Gammera the Invincible."

As movies go it's really a bit better than most of the films El Sapo finds us.

- You know what?

I'm enjoying it, boss, however, I do not understand why Gammera is just destroying everything in his path.

No one seems to have done anything to him, he's just walking around, stomping on things, and eating things.

And I wonder why.

- Well wonder no more, El Sapo.

I've pulled a few strings and I managed to secure an exclusive interview with Gammera.

He's written a book.

He finally wants to tell his story and set the record straight.

- [El Sapo] Is he just gonna screech and scream like a lunatic?

- Probably, that's pretty much how he communicates.

But we're in luck, here at Von Doren Enterprises we perfected the Verbalizer 6,000.

It's a translating computer, so we will be able to have a conversation with Gammera and try to understand his hopes, his dreams, his fears, his desires.

So without further adieu, we take you to Gammera, live via satellite.

El Sapo, flip that switch it'll link the satellite and the Verbalizer 6,000.

(Verbalizer beeps) Mr. Gammera, can you hear me?

- Yeah, I can, Baron.

Thank you for having me.

- Well thank you for joining us today.

We're big fans of your work.

On my left is Mittens and on my right is... Nevermind, we have so many questions for you.

- Yeah, like why are you such a destructive crab in this movie?

- Who said that?

- Sorry, that was my loudmouth manservant, El Sapo.

Pay no attention to him.

- Oh well, I don't mind answering him.

First, my friend I'm not a crab, I'm a turtle.

Get that right, please.

I'll respect you if you respect me.

Increase the peace.

One love, right?

- It just seems like you were in a very bad mood for no real reason.

- El Sapo, I was in a bad mood.

I was worshiping at the temple of anger back then, but you have to understand I was asleep, minding my own business, when suddenly someone drops an atomic bomb on me!

I hadn't even had my coffee yet!

And, well, I guess my darkside got out and I'm deeply ashamed of my behavior.

- Hey man, we've all had days like that before.

One time Mittens and I busted up the whole breakfast bar at the Easy Sleep Motel in Billings, Montana, because they ran out of Sanka and Cocoa Crunch Cereal.

I was so mad.

- You feel me then, man, you know exactly what I mean.

Anger is an energy, my friend.

And I filled up on it.

- Well it does look like you went on quite the literal rampage.

You destroyed several cities in fact.

- Oh, I did.

I was so lost, man, so lost.

When I was destroying all those cities and eating all that energy, you know what I was really doing?

- Killing thousands of people, causing billions of dollars in damages, irreparably destroying ecosystems?

- No man, I was destroying myself and eating my feelings, you know?

- So it's all about you then, huh, Gammera?

- El Sapo, that's enough.

Gammera is our guest.

- See, I was eating my feelings because, as a turtle, I never knew how to come out of my shell.

I kept everything inside, man, inside!

I guess I did kill a lot of people, you got me there.

- Listen, this is a judgment free zone.

Three people died while watching this show last week, in fact.

- Thank you for saying that, Baron.

It's good to be among friends.

- Those people you killed probably had lots of friends.

- What kind of interview is this?

- I apologize for him.

He talks when he should listen.

Do you mind if we take a break?

Let's get back to the film while I counsel El Sapo on proper decorum.

Let's return to "Gammera the Invincible" here on Nightmare Theatre.

- Invincible means stupid, right?

- What did he say?

- Cut the feed!

Cut the feed!

(signal screeches) - Good evening.

We are fairly certain that the disturbances earlier today have been caused by Gammera's return.

- [Man] You mean he's in the Tokyo area?

- Yes, unfortunately, but knowing that he is in Tokyo, gives us a chance to carry out the United Nations Plan Z for his disposal.

Yes.

Will the projectionist show the film please?

This is Oshima island in Tokyo Bay, a dormant volcano used at present for a space installation and weather observatory.

It is here that plan Z will be carried out as soon as arrangements are completed.

In the meantime let us hope Gammera stays where we can find him and does no further damage.

(plane roaring) - This is Haneda control, interference on the line.

This is a Haneda control, we have lost all contact.

We cannot read you.

Do not attempt to land.

(gasps) There it is!

Look!

(Gammera whirring) It's Gammera!

- Gammera, look out!

(explosion booms) (Gammera whirring) (explosion booms) - Gammera!

(Gammera screams) (upbeat rock music) ♪ Gammera ♪ Gammera (upbeat rock music) - Attention everyone!

Take cover, Gammera is attacking!

- [Man] Come on, we've gotta stop him.

- [Man] Take cover!

(men chattering) (explosion booms) - [Woman] Earthquake, oh!

- [Officer] Not an earthquake, Gammera!

He's coming, I tell you!

Quickly, hurry, get out of here!

Quickly, move!

Go on!

- Don't blow your cool, we're not going anywhere.

I say we should stay here and dance!

How about it?

(crowd cheering) (upbeat rock music) - Didn't you hear me?

Gammera is going to attack.

Are you all insane?

Hurry, get out of here!

♪ Gammera ♪ Gammera ♪ Gammera ♪ Gammera (club rumbling) (dramatic music) (buildings crashing) (Gammera screeching) - There's your bulletin.

There's your bulletin.

Gammera is attacking.

Proceed to shelter immediately.

Proceed to shelter.

Gammera is attacking!

Gammera is attacking!

(explosions booming) (buildings rumble) (Gammera screeching) (dramatic music) (fire hissing) (explosions booming) - What's happening?

- The lights!

- What is going on?

- Gammera!

- Gammera!

- Gammera!

(dramatic music) (tower rattling) (Gammera screeching) (sirens wailing) (dramatic orchestral music) (Gammera roars) (woman screams) (explosions booming) (Gammera thudding) (sirens wailing) (building thudding) (fire hissing) - [Reporter] The authorities ordered those not in the immediately threatened area between-- - Toshio, come and help me please.

Come on, I can't do it all by myself.

- [Reporter] Outlying areas, will receive evacuation.

- Toshio, did you hear me?

I need some help.

- [Reporter] Do not attempt to leave on your own.

- Toshio!

- [Reporter] Only authorized rescue and fire equipment.

- [Toshio] Gammera.

Don't do that.

Listen to me.

You mustn't.

- [Reporter] Containers as possible, so you have a supply on hand for drinking and cooking.

(suspenseful orchestral music) (fire crackling) (dramatic music) (siren wailing) - All right, that's the signal.

We leave in five minutes.

- Have you seen Toshio?

- I think he went to the river.

- The river?

(suspenseful orchestral music) Toshio!

Toshio!

Toshio!

(sirens wailing) (train whistles) - [Man] Oh!

- [Woman] We missed the train!

- Gammera's at the refinery!

- He is?

- Hurry!

- Come on now, hurry!

- Run!

- Oh.

(Gammera roars) (fire crackles) (explosions booming) - Okay.

Get going!

Roll in!

(horn whooshes) (metal clanking) (explosion booms) (phone rings) - Refinery, O'Neill speaking.

Yes, Dr. Hidaka.

Yes, sir, I understand, we'll try.

Listen everybody, they won't be ready on Oshima Island for another 24 hours, that means we've gotta keep rolling gas down there till the supply runs out.

All right, everybody ready now?

Let 'em roll!

- Right.

- Right, boss.

Here it goes.

(explosion booms) - Gammera!

(Gammera screeches) (Gammera groans) (metal clanking) - There's a boy on that train.

- What?

Hold it!

- Hey, Gammera.

(Gammera screeches) (explosion booms) (train rattles) - Come here.

Are you nuts?

Get out of there, come on!

- No!

- Come on now, you'll get us both killed.

- No!

- Come on, kid.

- He's my friend.

Let me go!

- Come on!

(man screams) (explosions booming) (Gammera screeches) Are you all right kid?

- [Toshio] I think so.

- All right, then come on, let's go.

(Gammera screeches) - Put me down, put me down, I can walk!

- Is he hurt?

- He's all right.

- Boy, he's lucky to be alive.

- Listen to me kid, that was a pretty stupid stunt you pulled back there.

- It was not, I wanted to see Gammera, that's all.

- Well you saw him all right, didn't you?

- Is he hurt, sir?

- Nah, he's all right.

There, now go home, will ya?

- He wanted to see Gammera.

(men laughing) - Hello and welcome back.

We hope that you're enjoying the film.

We have Gammera back on the line and we'd like to continue our interview.

But first, El Sapo, do you have something to say?

- Yes.

I'm sorry if I offended you, Gammera.

It's not your fault all those people were sitting in their homes, minding their own business when you destroyed their cities and their livelihoods.

- Sapo!

- That's not really an apology, but I'll take it, I guess.

- But let's talk about something positive.

Tell us about the kid you saved.

- Oh, yeah, Toshio!

I remember him.

You know, I saved his life when he fell.

- Well, to be fair, you did knock down the building he was in and causing him to fall is, it's not like he just fall off a building and you swept in like some superhero.

- Sapo, I am warning you.

- No, no, Baron, that's a fair point.

I only saved his life because I knew he loved turtles.

- Yeah, he was a real weird kid.

So whatever happened to Toshio?

Tell us that.

- I can't talk about that, man.

Oh man.

Oh, Toshio!

Toshio!

- Now look what you did, Sapo.

Tell us about your book, Gammera.

- Oh, Toshio, how many times did I ask you not to make me angry?

How many times?

I'm so sorry, Toshio!

- (coughs) So your book.

- Give me a moment.

Oh, yeah, my book.

Well things really started to fall apart for me after Toshio died.

I was at my lowest ebb.

Sure, I got jobs fighting other so-called monsters in a series of movies.

They called me the friend to all children.

They did call me that once!

Remember!

But were they there for me when I hurt my leg at a bar fight with Barago, and I couldn't work for a few months?

And I struggled my addiction to Turtle Wax?

When I had my power shut off?

And I got evicted and I lived in the sewer, when the bank repossessed my fastback?

- Can you imagine that, boss, this fat guy slathering himself in Turtle Wax?

- El Sapo, don't laugh.

- I can't help it!

It's just so funny, I just can just picture it, boss.

He'd be oiled up like a big, old, fat Hulk Hogan with nobody (laughs).

- Do not laugh at him!

- No.

Let him laugh!

Fools often laugh when nothing is funny.

So laugh it up!

(El Sapo laughing) See, I have escaped the captivity of my negativity.

It doesn't bother me anymore!

I had some dark times, but I came out of them!

- [Baron] Now I liked the title of your book.

"Coming Out of My Shell: How I Beat Rage and Depression "and How You Can Too."

Now tell us about that.

- See, we're all in our own shells, man.

- I'm not in a shell.

- Will you be quiet?

- Whenever I got upset or confused, I'd draw myself into my shell and hide, or I'd fly away, one of those two things.

Hiding or running away.

I'd probably destroy a city or two in the process.

So lost, man.

Just so lost!

- Well what did you do?

- I went off to find myself.

I went off to live in the mountains of India.

(El Sapo snickers) I switched to a real food, gluten free, vegan diet.

I decided to let love rule!

I grew huge fields of flowers.

I laid down in those flowers.

I found paradise in those flowers!

- (laughs) Flowers, paradise, man, if that's your idea of paradise, ♪ I wish I had a lawnmower!

- Sapo!

- My friend, my friend, okay, just a minute.

Let me realign my chakras.

Deep breath.

Two, deep breath.

Three, deep breath.

Calm energy.

Positive, negative energy.

Deep breathing now.

Breathing calms me down.

My breath, you know, used to destroy cities.

- I bet it still does, I can smell it from here, man!

- Sapo!

- No, let him talk.

I vowed not to let the words of fools get to me.

The old me would've flown from where I am right now to where you are, and I would've stomped your entire city flat, just to get to you, my friend.

By the way, what city are you in right now?

Maybe I could just visit you, big mouth.

All the self-help books talk about coming back after a relapse.

- Now there's no need for that.

You're book is gonna do a lot of people a lot of good.

- Yeah, yeah, yeah, right.

It's gonna be in the five for a dollar bin at the truck stop in two weeks!

- Sapo!

I again apologize.

So, tell me, Gammera, what are you doing these days?

- Deep breaths.

Not going to react.

Positive vibes lead to positive lives!

(sighs) Well Mothra and I have a small house out on a farm.

We breed and raise teacup chihuahuas.

(El Sapo laughs) We also sell matching tie dyed sweaters.

You and your dog can dress alike.

How cute is that?

- (laughs) Who wants to dress like a dog, man?

- That does it!

I'm coming after you, man!

- Yeah, yeah, turtle boy.

I bet you can't even get your big ole butt in the air anymore!

- Wait, wait, wait!

Remember, he's a fool, Gammera.

He just likes to talk.

Don't the ancient mystics say, "Wise men talk because they have something to say, "and ignorant fools talk "because they have to say something?"

- That's in my book, actually.

- Thank you for sticking up for me there, boss.

- Well, Gammera, we thank you for your time.

We know you're busy.

- Yeah, right, lot of sweaters to make, huh, fat boy?

- Sapo!

- No problem.

Say, Sapo,uh, what's your address?

I'd like to personally bring you a signed copy of my book.

Oh, and, Baron, maybe you and Mittens could leave town that day, maybe even get out of the state, so he could read it alone.

- Well that's all right, let's just get back to "Gammera the Invincible" here on Nightmare Theatre.

(dramatic orchestral music) - All right, detail, get down and line up along that border.

- [Man] Kawasaki control calling Oshima.

Kawasaki control calling Oshima.

Testing.

(dramatic music) (explosion booms) - Dr. Hidaka should be at Oshima by now.

- Yes, and we'll be ready here as soon as they need us.

- Good, let's hope our plan to get Gammera to Oshima works.

(dramatic orchestral music) - This one next?

- [Man] Yeah, pick up those legs.

You want to dump it?

All right, you ready?

- Take it away!

- [Soldier] Dr. Murase, excuse me sir.

A young lady to see you.

- Excuse me.

- Ms. Sakurai.

What are you doing here?

- Please, it's Toshio.

At 10:00 we were supposed to evacuate to Hachioji but Toshio is gone, he's been missing all day.

(dramatic music) - Yes, sir, they've just finish unloading.

- Hey where do you want this stuff?

- Take it up to warehouse.

- Right.

- It's on its way.

(dramatic music) - Well that should do it, I think.

Well don't you?

- [Toshio] Let me go, let me go!

- [Man] All right, get down out of there.

- What's that, what's going on?

- We just found a stowaway, sir.

- Stowaway?

- Why, it's Toshio.

You shouldn't be here.

- I'm sorry.

I came here to see Gammera, that's all.

- You can stay, Toshio.

But you'll have to behave, understand?

- Mm-hmm.

I'll take care of Toshio, doctor.

You hungry?

- Starving!

- It's time to begin.

- Oh, good.

- Is everything ready here?

- Yes, Doctor.

But Dr. Hidaka, are you sure this scheme of yours will lure Gammera to Oshima Island?

- Practically certain, assuming of course, his behavior pattern remains unchanged.

You may begin your tank operation.

Everything's ready on Oshima Island.

(boat horn blares) - [Man] On the double, get those hoses out there!

Take it, on the double I said.

(plane roaring) All right take your positions.

Don't bunch up.

Give yourselves room.

- Yes, as soon as it's ready.

All good, yes, that's fine, goodbye.

Ms. Sakurai, good news.

Toshio safe on Oshima Island.

- Oh my.

Toshio is all right?

- Yes.

(boat horn blares) (phone ringing) - Yes, professor, phase two can begin.

The ships are here.

Yes, as soon as you are ready.

You are?

Begin immediately.

- Thank you doctor.

All right, general, they're ready.

- Thank You.

Sergeant, proceed!

- [Sergeant] Select posts.

Open fire!

(guns firing) (fire whooshing) (dramatic music) - Look he's moving, it's going to work.

- Yes.

- Congratulations.

- Thank you, Nobuyo.

Hello, Dr. Hidaka.

It works, Gammera's following the path of fire to Oshima.

- So we did it!

He's on his way here.

- Do you see Gammera?

- Not yet, just the fire.

- [Hidaka] Thank you, professor.

(dramatic music) - Can you see anything, is Gammera there yet?

- Kyoko, for heaven's sakes.

- [Radio Announcer] Typhoon warning.

- Doctor listen.

- [Radio Announcer] Attention typhoon warning.

A small typhoon originating east of Iwo Tori Island has changed course and is approaching the Tokyo area.

All shipping is warned to take shelter immediately.

High winds, rain squalls.

- Dr. Hidaka, could this mean trouble for us?

- I think we're all right, once Gammera's here.

- [Radio Announcer] There's a threat of volcanic activity.

- Gammera!

- Gammera is coming!

(men shouting) - [Radio Announcer] It is advised that everyone assure themselves of an adequate water and food supply.

(men chattering) - No, Gammera!

It's a trap, get back, you're in danger.

- [Man] Come on Gammera!

- [Man] Come on, keep coming!

- [Man] We've got you now!

(men shouting) (fire whooshing) - This wind is putting out the fire!

(wind whooshing) - [Man] Look, the fire is out.

- Come!

(Gammera roars) (wind whooshing) This blasted typhoon!

- Can't anything be done, doctor?

- Might I suggest, doctor, that we use some of the fuel from Plan Z.

- It's not practical.

- Why not?

- Because if we did, there wouldn't be enough fuel left over for the plan itself, see?

- Dr. Hidaka!

- [Murase] Sabotage!

- [Man] Hey you, stop that!

- [Man] Put out the fire!

- What are you doing, are you mad?

- That man, doctor, it's Aoyagi!

- Let me go!

Don't pull out the fire.

Doctor, listen!

- What's the meaning of this?

- Are you insane?

Mr. Aoyagi, what are you doing?

- Listen to me.

You both don't understand.

If Gammera sees that, he'll come back, won't he?

- You're right, Aoyagi.

Men, light the fire, hurry!

(fire hisses) (explosion booms) (Gammera screeches) (dramatic music) (Gammera screeching) - Keep feeding the fire!

That's it!

More wood.

(lightning crashes) (Gammera screeching) (dramatic orchestral music) The wind.

Gasoline!

Get the gas from the truck.

- [Man] The fire's going out!

- Dr. Hidaka.

(dramatic music) (wind howling) - It's no use.

- Gammera.

(Gammera screeching) - Look at that, there he goes and there's nothing we can do about it.

- And so close to success too.

- Ah, rotten luck.

(dramatic music) (explosion booms) (Gammera screeching) (volcano booms) (thunder cracking) He's turning, the volcano did it.

- We were right.

- It's wonderful.

(crowd chattering) (volcano booms) (Gammera screeching) (water fizzing) (Gammera screeching) (plane buzzing) - Here comes a plane, probably Professor Murase.

- [Man] Yes.

- 10 minutes and counting.

- The eruption has subsided, sir.

- Not even a live volcano could keep me away today.

- Yes, sir, tighten your belt.

- Nobuyo!

- Good morning Professor Murase.

- Toshio!

- [Nobuyo] Did you have a pleasant flight?

- Toshio, you had me scared half to death.

- Scold me later, all right?

Now we got to hurry or else we miss everything.

Come on!

- Five minutes and counting.

- Wait till you see this.

Look.

- (gasps) It's incredible.

(machines humming) (machines whirring) - [Toshio] Here they are.

- [Hidaka] Professor Murase.

- Ah, Dr. Hidaka, everything's going well, it seems.

- Very well indeed.

(machine buzzing) - Excellent.

- [Man] Stand by please.

The count is now 10 seconds and holding.

- All set?

- Yes, sir.

- Good.

Ready ignition and start of step two.

Begin step two.

(dramatic music) (fire hissing) (Gammera growls) Ready?

- Toshio.

(Gammera screeching) - [Hidaka] Open hatches, flares out!

- [Man] Hatches open, flares out.

- Ready with the capsule, close capsule.

(capsule whirring) (Gammera screeches) Activate energizer.

(capsule crackling) Standby.

Resume count.

10, nine, eight, seven, six, five, four, three, two, one, zero.

(capsule whirring) - It's a success!

(laughs) (men chattering) (capsule squeals) (crowd cheering) - [Announcer] This is United Nations radio.

At this very moment the Plan Z rocket with Gammera aboard is starting on its long journey to Mars.

Plan Z, a triumph of scientific achievement, is the result of the combined efforts of all the nations of the world.

Thus through international cooperation, a major threat to civilization has been averted.

(crowd cheering) - Well, Kyoko, we did it.

So the three of us saw the beginning and the finish, eh?

- Only I didn't get a pic.

(Hidaka laughs) - [Toshio] Where's he going, Dr. Hidaka?

- He's on his way to Mars.

So I guess that he'll still be lonely, hey?

- I think so Dr. Hidaka.

But when I grow up I'm going to be a scientist like you, and then I'll go to Mars in a rocket.

- (laughs) I see.

(upbeat rock music) - Gammera, sayonara.

(upbeat rock music) ♪ Gammera ♪ Gammera ♪ Gammera ♪ Gammera - Man, that was some ending, wasn't it?

Gammera walked into a trap and they blasted him into outer space.

- It was really a great example of global cooperation, wasn't it, boss?

All those countries set aside their petty squabbles and differences and worked together to get that big, stupid, idiot, Gammera, to walk into that trap.

- Yes, it was a fine example of people who disagree with each other, even people who compete with each other, working together to achieve a common goal.

It's great when we can set aside our differences in order to focus on something that we all want to accomplish.

I've not seen cooperation like that since every fast food place in the tri-state area worked together to ban you.

- Look, look, look, the signs say, "No shirt, no shoes, no service."

It says nothing about pants.

History will vindicate me.

- They should've blasted you into space instead of Gammera.

- I wouldn't mind visiting outer space.

- Your day's coming, pal.

But until that glorious day, I guess I'm stuck with you here.

- Amen.

Thanks, boss.

- Sure.

So what do we have on tap for next week, El Sapo?

- We have this, boss.

- [Announcer] "Santa Claus Conquers the Martians."

(upbeat music) (robot whirring) (aliens laughing) Santa set up a fantastic, automatic toy factory on Mars.

(upbeat music) The Martian, Rigna, battles the wicked Voldar in a desperate effort to save Santa.

The wise man of Mars.

(dramatic music) 900 years old.

The battle of the toys, when Martian kids and Earth kids join Santa to battle the bad guys of Mars.

(upbeat music) For real space-age fun, you'll be out of this world when, "Santa Claus Conquers the Martians."

(upbeat music) - Speaking of things I wish we could blast into space, that movie would be a prime candidate.

- So can we go over Mittens' breakfast suggestions now?

It might be a good time.

- No.

Until next time, may all your dreams be nightmares.

(lightning cracks) (dramatic music)