For fans of film and visual effects, the Open Matte version is fascinating because it exposes the "hidden" edges of the frame. Key differences include:
This means that on that specific DVD release, you are seeing more image than you have ever seen in the theater or on modern Blu-rays. While the theatrical version cuts off at the chin of the actors, the Open Matte shows their entire head and the sky above. Godzilla 1998 Open Matte
| Feature | Theatrical Widescreen (2.39:1) | Open Matte (1.78:1) | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Godzilla’s Head | Often cropped at the crown | Full head plus neck visible | | Skyline Shots | Horizontal, emphasizes city width | Vertical, emphasizes building height vs. monster | | Miniature Effects | Obscures set ceilings, preserves illusion | Exposes lighting rigs and set edges | | Close-ups (Human) | Standard medium-close | Uncomfortably tight (headroom excess) | | Final Death Scene | Creature fills frame laterally | Creature shown falling past multiple building tiers | For fans of film and visual effects, the
When Godzilla hit theaters, it was in a wide , meaning the top and bottom of the frame were blocked off to create a cinematic "letterbox" look. However, director Roland Emmerich actually filmed much of the movie on Super 35mm film , which captures a taller image than what’s shown in theaters. | Feature | Theatrical Widescreen (2