Some of you may be familiar with popular Japanese heroes such as Ultraman or Spectreman. Masked heroes fighting against Godzilla sized monsters and defending the world against evil organizations. This type of show/film is typically known as a form of “tokusatsu”. This is a term coined during the early days of kaiju films that literally means “special effects“. The popularity of these shows led to many copycats and boldly creative new ideas.

In 1971 Japanese artist and manga creator Shotaro Ishinomori along with a dedicated group at Toei released a new kind of hero to the Japanese public. Kamen Rider, the grasshopper like warrior who rode a motorcycle and kicked his enemies into oblivion.

Fast forward to the present day and Kamen Rider is now a franchise that releases a new rider every year. With each season a new group of fans are born. Children of all ages (and adults too) tune in weekly to see the continuing adventures of their favorite masked heroes.

In 2005 a tribute to the creator and the series that spawned the franchise came in the form of a new Kamen Rider movie. A film based on the first series was a concept that delighted and concerned fans across the world. Would it be as good? Would they capture the same magic that created a sensation so many years ago?

When the first images of the new Rider suits hit the internet it seemed that things were going in the right direction. As time passed and more images and teasers were released excitement grew. Soon enough we were able to finally witness the new Kamen Rider. Expectations were high.

That brings us to this review. How does this version of the beloved character stand against nostalgia? That’s something to be left up to the viewer. Everyone who enjoyed the series has their own attachment. Some people find this version fulfilling while others were left unsatisfied. I find myself somewhere in the middle.

When Takeshi Hongo is captured by the wicked SHOCKER organization he is transformed into one of their soldiers. Against his will Hongo performs acts of destruction and violence against innocent people. When an event related to his past triggers his emotions he goes against his makers. This spurs the group to create another equally powerful warrior in his place… Kamen Rider 2. When the two collide what will be the outcome?

Due to the episodic nature of the Kamen Rider series one can become used to the sort of drawn out storytelling utilized. Normally 40 to 50 episodes per season lead to great story arcs, good character development and a bevy of action packed fights. When you compress that into a 90 minute film you are left with a condensed and watered down experience.

Speaking of fights, this film has too few. When they do occur they have impact and hold your attention but they tend to end quickly leaving you wanting more. The choreography is good and there are a few hits in the film that make you say “ouch”. Some of the digital FX and wirework can be a bit dodgy but it is overall impressive. The costume design is fantastic. I highly commend all involved with the new suits.

The acting is passable but some fans may feel cheated by the somewhat wimpier characterizations of their favorite characters. Those used to the gung ho dramatics of old might find the pretty boy drama within to be a bit grating. The movie is noted for not only having a strange love triangle but also another budding romance between two young characters in a hospital.

The two younger characters seem to be another source of irritation to fans and non fans alike. They take up a large portion of the film. What is the deal with them and why are they so prominent? This is something you have to endure until the end to understand. After viewing the film in its entirety you will either have a greater appreciation for the bold step in adding the subplot or you’re still going to hate it.

Between the subplot, few fights, sub par dialogue and weak characterizations anyone can be left with a somewhat bitter taste in their mouth. Despite these shortcomings the film still adds up to a decent way to pass the time and might even cause someone to become interested in the series. Diehard fans are best to stick to the TV version but should at least give the film a chance.

Hopefully there will be more modern takes on old tokusatsu series. “Kikaida” anyone?


Presentation:
Released on Region 1 as “Masked Rider: The First” from Tokyo Shock (Media Blasters). The audio only comes in Japanese stereo. It does the job but those with good sound systems will be highly disappointed. The video seems a bit dull and there are compression and color problems throughout. Disappointing. Extras include trailers and a look behind the scenes.


Overall:
There are plot holes big enough to drive an 18 wheeler through and some strange decisions in storytelling but in the end we have a decent action film that deserves some attention. The sequel “Kamen Rider: The Next” has been theatrically released in Japan recently. Hopefully that will also be released stateside and abroad so that Kamen Rider can once again entertain a new group of fans.

If you are a fan of Japanese superheroes or tokusatsu in general then buy this one just to support such a niche release. If you are interested in getting into the series or wanting to find out what the big deal is please rent “Masked Rider: The First” and give it a chance. Fans of Hiroshi Miyauchi be warned. He only appears for one scene and has very little dialogue.