Godzilla is a long-running Japanese franchise centered around the iconic giant monster, Godzilla. The series began with the original 1954 film directed by Ishiro Honda and produced by Toho. Over the decades, Godzilla has become a cultural phenomenon, spawning numerous films, television series, and merchandise. The franchise explores themes of nuclear destruction and humanity's relationship with nature, solidifying Godzilla as a symbol of both terror and heroism.