'Pacific Rim,' for me, was a chance to touch on those old Toho monster movies. 'Godzilla' and 'Rodan'... and then 'Ultraman' and 'Robotech' and all those kinds of things.

In this quote, John Knoll, a visual effects supervisor and filmmaker, reflects on his inspiration for the movie Pacific Rim. He describes how the film gave him an opportunity to pay homage to the classic Toho monster movies, such as Godzilla and Rodan, which are iconic in the genre of giant monster films. Knoll highlights how these films from the Toho studio shaped his creative vision for Pacific Rim, as they set the tone for a particular style of monster storytelling.

Knoll also mentions other significant Japanese franchises like Ultraman and Robotech, which further influenced his work. These shows and movies were pivotal in the development of kaiju (giant monster) films and mecha (giant robot) genres, which have a strong cultural legacy. By referencing these, Knoll connects his work on Pacific Rim to a long-standing tradition of science fiction and monster movies that have been beloved by fans for decades.

The quote reflects Knoll's respect for the history and legacy of these iconic films, as well as his desire to capture the essence of the monster movie genre. He views Pacific Rim as a modern continuation of these themes, blending the tradition of old Japanese monster films with new technology and storytelling. This connection helps establish the tone and atmosphere of the movie, evoking nostalgia for fans of the classic kaiju genre.

Ultimately, Knoll’s statement reveals the deep influence of Japanese pop culture on his filmmaking style and the ways in which modern films can both honor and innovate upon the traditions of past genres. His reference to Godzilla, Rodan, Ultraman, and Robotech shows how cultural touchstones can shape the creative process, leading to the creation of something that resonates with both new and old audiences.