A Quick Look: ATTACK OF THE MUSHROOM PEOPLE (1964 - color)

   ATTACK OF THE MUSHROOM PEOPLE was a Japanese film imported to American television in the 60's. Though shot in scope and color, it was seen in the States only cropped and black and white (reportedly, anyway. I note that the clip used in IT CAME FROM HOLLYWOOD was in color). Given the moody desolation and haunting visuals, this is one Toho film that might actually play better in black and white! The story concerns a group of society people who become shipwrecked on a tiny island boasting a strange secret. As they begin to fight with each other, it becomes clear only too late that their bodies are being taken over by the island's native, intelligent fungus! It has been noted before that the film plays like the very dark alternative to Gilligan's Island. The castaways in both groups include a Skipper, a first mate, a professor, an actress, a millionaire, and a sweet office girl! More oddly, both projects were created at almost the exact same time! The connection is only coincidence, however. Spooky, damp affair is perfect material for halloween viewing. A very nice DVD release came from Tokyo Shock. And unlike most of the Tokyo Shock line, the disk's use of the international dub isn't as much of a cheat. Reportedly, ATTACK OF THE MUSHROOM PEOPLE had only the one dub. If so, it would be one of the earliest American releases of an international dub.