The H Man (1958)

Introduction:

I can’t remember where I first heard about this movie, but each time its brought up I hear the same description: Gooey. So when I was slated for a screening on TCM I had to see it. Because who doesn’t love a gooey monster?

Summary:

Dr. Masada (Kenji Sahara) is convinced that radioactive testing has not only produced Godzilla, but also created a bizarre liquid life form. This “H Man” not only oozes all over its prey but also turns them into a similar liquid glop. He tries to convince Inspector Tominaga (Akihiko Hirata) of this, but the Inspector has other fish to fry. He’s involved in a dangerous case involving drug runners and gangsters. The key to his case is Chikako Arai (Yumi Shirakawa), who may have witnessed a murder. But this murder may have been committed by none other than The H Man.

Good Points:

• Some awesome gooey effects
• The idea of combining this with a gangster film is inspired
• Some creepy moments

Bad Points:

• Lots of padding scenes
• The execution of combining this with a gangster film is poor
• The finale ends on the flat side

Overall:

This is one of those movies that has a great idea, some really cool visuals and the potential for a lot of fun. But the end result is a little too dull. The gangster subplot weighs the story down. The finale has potential and yet seems to just whimper out. Monster film fans should check it out for the gooey creatures, but keep your riffing skills handy.

Scores (out of 5)

Visuals: 4

Sound: 3

Acting: 3

Script: 3

Music: 3

Direction: 3

Entertainment: 3

Total: 3

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