This article is about a film in the Kamen Rider Series. |
WARNING: This series contains scenes of graphic violence and blood. Viewer discretion is advised! |
- For the unrelated 1992 film, see Shin Kamen Rider: Prologue.
Shin Kamen Rider (シン・仮面ライダー, Shin Kamen Raidā),[1] also known internationally as Shin Masked Rider, is a Japanese superhero tokusatsu film serving as a reboot of the 1971 TV series Kamen Rider as well as to commemorate the franchise's 50th Anniversary. In the film, Takeshi Hongo and his cohort Ruriko Midorikawa fight against an evil terrorist organization that is responsible for his augmentation and stop them from conquering society.
The tagline of the film is Those which change. Those which never change. And those that don't want to change. (変わるモノ。変わらないモノ。そして、変えたくないモノ。, Kawaru mono. Kawaranai mono. Soshite, kaetakunai mono.)
Production
Development
Toei producer Muneyuki Kii, who was also an employee for T-Joy, another Japanese film distribution company, had grown close to Anno during the production of Anno's anime film Evangelion: 3.0 You Can (Not) Redo, which T-Joy had also distributed.[2] In 2016, Anno expressed his interest to Kii in rebooting the original Kamen Rider series as a film with the intent of both writing and directing it himself[3] as part of his previous Shin series of tokusatsu films, which included reboots of both Godzilla and Ultraman. In 2018, Anno formally submitted his proposal[4] to Shin-ichiro Shirakura, who had approved of the project and originally allowed for the film to be released in 2021, the year of the franchise's 50th Anniversary. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the film was reasonably delayed to 2023, allowing two additional years for Anno to work on it.
A trademark for the film was registered on March 4, 2021, around one month before any official announcement was made, and a countdown timer was displayed on the franchise's official website, revealing three unrevealed projects. On April 3, 2021, a press conference was held to reveal these three projects, with the first two being Fuuto PI and Kamen Rider Black Sun. The third and final project announced was Shin Kamen Rider, which Shirakura referred to as the "flagship announcement" of the event. In regards to the announcement, Anno stated that he was proud to give back to the franchise that he had much adored as a young child, with this film being a gift to the now-adult fans like him who had grown up with the original TV series, and also a gateway to Kamen Rider for those who had not.
Writing
Anno announced the following week that development of the film had commenced and early script drafts were being written. He chose to announce this on August 14, 2021, which was the fictional birth date of Takeshi Hongo. On September 22, the official Twitter confirmed that Anno had completed the scripts for the film two days prior.[5]
Casting
In regards to casting, Ikematsu was in Shanghai during the casting period, so he had to audition online instead of attending them in-person.[6] He was personally selected by Anno, who felt that Ikematsu embodied the aura of Takeshi Hongo in a light that was similar yet also distinctively different from Hiroshi Fujioka.[7] In regards to Hamabe, she didn't have to audition and was personally chosen by Anno, who sought her out after she caught his eye from a corporate calendar released by her agency, Toho.[8] Their involvements in the film were kept under wraps until they were officially announced at a press conference on September 30, 2022 at 3:00 PM.[9]
Pre-Production
On October 10, 2021, the fictional birth date of Hayato Ichimonji, Anno revealed images of Kamen Rider No. 2's Typhoon belt being constructed.[10]
Filming
Principal photography began on October 3, 2021 in Takasaki City in the Gunma Prefecture, with locations such as Oguchi Dam being used.[11][12] On October 15, the staff began filming on the Toei studio backlot with Hideaki Anno showing off a constructed set to be used for a specific scene that could be adjusted for different angles and shots.[13] On October 20th, the official Twitter teased the film crew shooting a motorcycle action scene on location at an unnamed beach.[14] Ten days later on October 30th, the official Twitter confirmed that the film will shoot on location at night.[15] On December 20, the film crew teased shooting Kumo Augment-01's scenes in a forest setting.[16]
Like Shin Ultraman, several sequences in the film were shot using iPhones and GoPros, mimicking current cinematic methods with camera motions, lens sizes, perspectives, and zoom time.[17][18]
In a January 2022 interview with Anno during promotional press tours for Shin Ultraman, he stated that Shin Kamen Rider had wrapped up filming.[19]
Post-Production
Tasuku Emoto was cast as Hayato Ichimonji. On May 12, 2022, actors Shinya Tsukamoto, Tooru Tezuka, and Suzuki Matsuo were cast in undisclosed roles, with Tsukamoto and Tezuka's roles later being revealed.
Synopsis
A man forced to bear power and stripped of humanity. A woman skeptical of happiness. Takeshi Hongo, an Augmentation made by SHOCKER, and Ruriko Midorikawa, a rebel of the organization, escape while fighting off assassins. What’s justice? What’s evil? Will this violence end? Despite his power, Hongo tries to remain human. Along with freedom, Ruriko has regained a heart. What paths will they choose?
Plot
Takeshi Hongo is kidnapped and transformed into Batta Augment-01 by an evil terrorist organization named SHOCKER. As Hongo escapes from SHOCKER with Ruriko Midorikawa, Kumo Augment-01 goes after him and his henchmen, masquerading as riot police, abduct Ruriko. However, Ruriko is protected by Hongo, who transforms into his Augment form and they escape to a hidden cabin. Dr. Hiroshi Midorikawa reverts Hongo to his civilian form at the hideout by expelling the excess prana life energy. Kumo Augment-01 arrives to kill Dr. Midorikawa and kidnaps his daughter. Hongo pursues and defeats Kumo Augment-01 with his Augment abilities and is dubbed "Kamen Rider".
Hongo and Ruriko encounter two government agents at their new safe house. The agents propose an alliance to defeat SHOCKER. Ruriko reveals SHOCKER's origins, saying that it was created by a billionaire to bring happiness to humanity. However, the billionaire committed suicide, leaving an advanced artificial intelligence in charge. Unfortunately, the AI misinterpreted its creator's intentions and believes in subjugating humans for their well-being. Hongo and Ruriko then confront Koumori Augment-01, a SHOCKER scientist planning to use a virus obtained from the government to dominate the population.
After the two government agents eliminate Sasori Augment-01, Hongo and Ruriko are assigned with taking down Hachi Augment-01, who was once Ruriko's friend, Hiromi. Hachi Augment-01 believes that enslaving humans is necessary for humanity's protection. After Hongo battles her, she is later shot to death by one of their informants using Sasori Augment-01's toxin. Ichiro Midorikawa reawakens as Chou Augment-01 and begins killing countless government officers. Ichiro sends their prana to a nightmarish dimension known as the Habitat Realm. Ruriko reveals that Ichiro intends to do the same to humanity as a result of his mother's unjust murder, which has fueled his hatred for humanity.
Hongo and Ruriko confront Ichiro Midorikawa, but are easily subdued. Ichiro deploys Hayato Ichimonji, also known as Batta Augment-02, after them. Hongo escapes with Ruriko and fights Ichimonji, but suffers serious injuries. Ruriko manages to release Ichimonji from SHOCKER's control, urging him to join their crusade. However, Ruriko is abruptly slain by Kamakiri Kamereon Augment-01, a SHOCKER hybrid Augment who is later killed by Ichimonji. After recovering, Hongo learns from Ruriko's will that she lost to Ichiro because his prana was stronger. She discloses a program transferred to his mask that will disable Ichiro and expresses her happiness during her time with Hongo.
Hongo reaches out for Ichimonji to work with him against SHOCKER, but he respectfully declines. As Hongo goes to confront Ichiro, he is intercepted and chased by 11 mass-produced Phase Variation Batta Augments. He is saved by Ichimonji, who dubs himself "Kamen Rider No. 2" and the two cooperate to defeat the Augments. The Double Riders confront Ichiro, who transforms into his complete form, Kamen Rider No. 0. Hongo and Ichimonji smash Ichiro's throne using their Cyclones, the throne being the source of Ichiro’s prana. As his prana supply is cut off and his disguise is disrupted, Ichiro gradually weakens. The duo succeed in removing Ichiro's mask and replacing it with Hongo's, where Ichiro interacts with Ruriko's spirit and the two reconcile. Having exerted their prana, Hongo and Ichiro both disintegrate, leaving Ichimonji behind.
Later, the two government agents bestow Hongo's mask to Ichimonji, and revealed that Ruriko's prana is safe at a secure location. Before his final moments, Hongo entrusted Ichimonji to carry on the legacy of "Kamen Rider". Ichimonji reluctantly agrees to work with the two agents, Tachibana and Taki. He is later equipped with a new suit and a restored version of Hongo's mask. Ichimonji can now interact with Hongo's spirit, which lives inside his mask. The two, now known as "Kamen Rider No. 2+1", ride on towards the sunset as they continue their crusade against SHOCKER.
Characters
Kamen Riders
Film
Kamen Rider | Takeshi Hongo |
Kamen Rider No. 2 | Hayato Ichimonji |
Kamen Rider No. 2+1 | Hayato Ichimonji & Takeshi Hongo |
Special-exclusive
Kamen Rider | Shinnosuke Nohara |
Allies
Villains
SHOCKER
Kamen Rider No. 0 | Ichiro Midorikawa |
Henchmen
Batta Augment | Phase Variation Batta Augments |
Other Characters
- Shoko Midorikawa
- Takeshi Hongo's Father
- Criminal
Other Media
Manga
- There is no true peace in this world -Shin Kamen Rider SHOCKER SIDE- (真の安らぎはこの世になく-シン・仮面ライダー SHOCKER SIDE-, Shin no yasuragi wa konoyo ni naku -Shin Kamen Raidā Shokkā Saido-)
Specials
- Shin Kamen Rider × Crayon Shin-chan (シン・仮面ライダー×クレオンしんちゃん, Shin Kamen Raidā × Kureon Shin-chan)
- Release Commemoration Special Broadcast: Movie "Shin Kamen Rider" Premise / Act 1 Kumo Augment-01 (公開記念“特別放送”: 映画『シン・仮面ライダー』幕前/第1幕 クモオーグ, Kōkai Kinen Tokubetsu Hōsō: Eiga Shin kamen Raidā Makumae/Dai-ichi Maku Kumoōgu)
Video Games
- SD Shin Kamen Rider Rumble (SD シン・仮面ライダー 乱舞, SD Shin Kamen Raidā Ranbu)
Music
- Main article: Shin Kamen Rider Music Collection
Marketing
On August 9th, 2021, Hideaki Anno attended a paper lantern festival in Kamakura and contributed with a promotional teaser in the form of lantern artwork featuring his redesign of the Tachibana Racing Club insignia.[20]
On August 19, 2021, Anno declared the day “Bike Day” and teased the construction of the motorcycles with his previously teased Kamen Rider logo on the front.[21]
During the September 30th, 2021 press conference for the film, a recreation of the original TV series' opening sequence was featured.[22][23]
On October 10, 2021, the fictional birth date of Hayato Ichimonji, the official Shin Kamen Rider Twitter unveiled another promotional poster which showed that Kamen Rider No. 2 would be in the upcoming film.[24] A few months later, actor Tasuku Emoto was cast into the role.[25]
On October 30, 2021, Hideaki Anno showed off his design variant of the SHOCKER logo, as well as Man Spider's insignia.[26]
On March 18, 2022 the Toei Marunouchi movie theater in Ginza was adorned with a giant SHOCKER emblem, indicating the fictional terrorist group had taken over the cinema complex. The emblem would remain on the theater until April 1, 2022. In addition, new details were disclosed about the antagonists on the official film site, revealing that Bat Man and Wasp Woman would also be in the film via use of their logos as downloadable content for personal computers.[27][28]
On April 3, 2022 the official Twitter page posted a 51st anniversary celebratory post, stating the film crew is hard at work to complete the film for its release date. The tweet came with a promotional image of Ruriko and Takeshi inside what appears to be a SHOCKER base.[29]
On May 12, 2022 the first teaser trailer was posted online, which showed brief glimpses of Bat Man and Wasp Woman.
On May 31, 2022, a SHOCKER app was developed and released on the Google Play and Apple App Store. [30]
On November 2, 2022, snack company Calbee announced specially designed “Shin Pizza Potato” bags of chips would be sold to promote the film featuring Kamen Rider and Kamen Rider No. 2 on the packaging. SHOCKER combatants were shown to be taking over the factory and corporate offices of Calbee in still shots on Twitter as part of the promotional campaign.[31][32] The chips contained collectible trading cards inside to be sold at convenience stores starting on February 6, 2023. The bag art was done by Mahiro Maeda and Masato Hayase. The Hayase bag is designed to resemble the “Kamen Rider Snack” chip bags sold in stores in 1971, with the film’s official Twitter account stating that the limited edition chips are a retro recipe from that era.[33][34]
On December 2022, a replica of the Shin Ichigo suit and one of the film’s Cyclone motorcycles were put on display in the Kamen Rider 50 Years Exhibition to commemorate the anniversary of the franchise and promote the upcoming film.[35]
On February 4, 2023 the marketing team made a snow sculpture of Kamen Rider’s head for the 73rd annual Snow Festival in Sopporo to promote the film.[36]
On February 10, 2023, a new trailer for the film was released to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the final episode of the original TV series.[37] Two new posters were also revealed for the film, confirming its release date to be on March 18 nationwide across Japan, with previews scheduled for March 17th. Several visuals of additional characters were also released, as well as the introduction of Hachi Augment-01.[38]
On February 12, 2023 the masks of Kamen Rider, Kamen Rider No. 2 and Kumo Augment-01 were put on display at a booth advertising Hideaki Anno’s projects at the 2023 winter Wonder Festival, along with the film’s poster.[39]
On February 13, 2023, Canada Dry announced that 13 different specially marked bottles of Icy Spark water and Icy Spark Lemon water would feature the Shin Japan Heroes Universe characters, with three of them depicting Kamen Rider and Kamen Rider No. 2. [40]
From February 16-27, 2023 the Hiroshima Kamen Rider Store had a pop-up shop inside for Shin Kamen Rider merchandise, including a display of the Kamen Rider No. 2 Typhoon belt prop from the film.[41]
On February 23, 2023, T-Joy cinemas announced that they would hold an advance screening of the film on March 16 and special Kamen Rider-themed drinks and giveaway collectibles would be available to filmgoers. [42]
On February 28, 2023 the film was featured in an article of Pen Magazine, with Kamen Rider on the issue's front cover. [43]
On March 7th, 2023, a collaboration between Shin Kamen Rider and the Kinnikuman franchise was announced. The fictional narrative was that SHOCKER made a temporary alliance with the Devil Choujin to create a super wrestling version of their Low Class cyborgs using Choujin power. Merchandise included a limited edition T-shirt featuring the Devil Choujin Black Hole and the Choujin Low Class cyborg on the front.[44]
On March 12, 2023, a premiere screening and gala was held at the Toho Theater in Roppongi Hills featuring the stars of the film and the press. [45]
On March 24-26, 2023 the Cyclone was put on display as a special limited time attraction for the 50th Annual Tokyo Motorcycle Show.[46]
On April 29, 2023 the credit card company EPOS issued two custom limited edition Shin Kamen Rider VISA credit cards to its customers.[47]
Release
- The film held early screenings on March 17, 2023 at 6PM, and premiered nationwide the next day on March 18, 2023. Nationwide theatrical screenings ended on June 4, 2023.[48]
- The film began streaming internationally on Amazon Prime on July 21, 2023 in over 200 countries.
The film is known by the following titles in its international releases:
- United States: Shin Kamen Rider / Shin Masked Rider
- Thailand: ชิน•มาสค์ไรเดอร์
- Taiwan: 新·假面騎士 (Xīn · jiǎ miàn qí shì)
- Hong Kong and Macau: 新·幪面超人 (San · Mung Min Chiu Yan)
- Southeast Asia: Shin Masked Rider / 新·假面骑士 (Xīn · jiǎ miàn qí shì)
International release dates of the film are given below:
- The Amazon Prime international streaming service released the film worldwide on July 21, 2023 in over 200 countries.
- At Anime Expo 2022, Shout! Factory expressed interest in giving the film a U.S. release, but did not go into specifics as to when or where the film would be distributed.
- Fathom Events announced that all major participating theater chains in the U.S., such as AMC, Regal and Cinemark, would be showing the film for a two nights only event on May 31, 2023 and June 5, 2023 at 7:00 PM. [49] New York City held a special premiere screening on May 23, 2023 at the Japan Society Cultural Center.[50]
- On April 28, 2023, the official Shin Kamen Rider website confirmed that the film will be released in the following Asian territories:[51]
- DEX Dream Express will be distributing the film in Thailand from May 20, 2023.
- Muse Communications will be distributing the film in Taiwan from June 2, 2023.
- Neofilms HK will be distributing the film in Hong Kong and Macau from June 22, 2023.
- On June 15, 2023, the Southeast Asian division of Neofilms confirmed release dates for the following countries:[52][53]
- Premiering in Indonesia with a fan's screening on June 24, 2023, followed by a regular release in theatres from June 30.
- Premiering in the Philippines on July 5, 2023.
- Premiering in Malaysia with a fan's screening on July 1 and 2, 2023, followed by a regular release in theatres from July 6.
- Premiering in Singapore with a fan's screening on July 8, 2023, followed by a regular release in theatres from July 20.
Cast
- Takeshi Hongo (本郷 猛, Hongō Takeshi): Sousuke Ikematsu (池松 壮亮, Ikematsu Sōsuke)
- Hayato Ichimonji (一文字 隼人, Ichimonji Hayato): Tasuku Emoto (柄本 佑, Emoto Tasuku)
- Ruriko Midorikawa (緑川 ルリ子, Midorikawa Ruriko): Minami Hamabe (浜辺 美波, Hamabe Minami)
- Hiroshi Midorikawa (緑川 弘, Midorikawa Hiroshi): Shinya Tsukamoto (塚本 晋也, Tsukamoto Shin'ya)
- Koumori Augment-01 (コウモリオーグ, Kōmori Ōgu): Toru Tezuka (手塚 とおる, Tezuka Tooru)
- Hachi Augment-01 (ハチオーグ, Hachi Ōgu): Nanase Nishino (西野 七瀬, Nishino Nanase)
- Ichiro Midorikawa (緑川 イチロー, Midorikawa Ichirō): Mirai Moriyama (森山 未來, Moriyama Mirai)
- Sasori Augment-01 (サソリオーグ, Sasori Ōgu): Masami Nagasawa (長澤 まさみ, Nagasawa Masami)
- Kamakiri Kamereon Augment-01 (カマキリ・カメレオン(K.K)オーグ, Kamakiri Kamereon Ōgu): Kanata Hongo (本郷 奏多, Hongō Kanata)
- Kumo Augment-01 (クモオーグ, Kumoōgu): Nao Omori (大森 南朋, Ōmori Nao)
- Founder of SHOCKER (SHOCKERの創設者, Shocker no Sōsetsu-sha): Suzuki Matsuo (松尾 スズキ, Matsuo Suzuki)
- K (ケイ, Kei, Voice): Tori Matsuzaka (松坂 桃李, Matsuzaka Tōri)
- Shoko Midorikawa (緑川 硝子, Midorikawa Shōko): Mikako Ichikawa (市川 実日子, Ichikawa Mikako)
- Government Official (政府の男, Seifu no Otoko): Yutaka Takenouchi (竹野内 豊, Takenouchi Yutaka)
- Intelligence Official (情報機関の男, Jōhō-kikan no Otoko): Takumi Saitoh (斎藤 工, Saitō Takumi)
- Man in Business Suit (背広の男, Sebiro no Otoko): Shuhei Uesugi (上杉 柊平, Uesugi Shuhei)
- Criminal: Ken Yasuda (安田 顕, Yasuda Ken)
- Takeshi Hongo's Father: Toru Nakamura (仲村 トオル, Nakamura Tōru)
Suit Actors
- Kamen Rider: Sousuke Ikematsu, Shoki Kakegawa (掛川 将希, Kake'gawa Shoki, stand-in, motion capture)
- Kamen Rider No. 2: Tasuku Emoto, Yuki Ozawa (小澤 雄喜, Ozawa Yuki, stand-in, motion capture)
- Kumo Augment-01: Hayate Kashiwazaki (柏崎 隼風, Kashiwazaki Hayate)
- Hachi Augment-01: Nanase Nishino, Keiko Fujita (藤田 啓子, Fujita Keiko, stand-in, motion capture)
- Kamen Rider No. 0: Mirai Moriyama
- Kamakiri Kamereon Augment-01: Kanata Hongo
Staff
- Hideaki Anno – director, writer, concept designer
- Katsuro Onoue – associate director
- Ikki Todoroki – deputy director
- Shin-ichiro Shirakura – executive producer
- Yutaka Izubuchi – designer
- Mahiro Maeda – designer
- Ikuto Yamashita – designer
- Atsuki Sato – VFX supervisor
- Hiromasa Inoue – VFX producer
- Masayo Ohno – VFX producer
- Linto Ueda – post-production supervisor
Reception
Box office
On the first weekend of the film's release, it had grossed ¥542 million, placing it at #2 in the Japanese box office.[54] On April 24, 2023, the film shattered the record previously set by Kamen Rider Decade: All Riders vs. Dai-Shocker as the highest grossing Kamen Rider film of all time by raking in ¥2.02 billion at the box office. [55]
Critical response
Publication | Score |
---|---|
IGN Japan | 7/10 |
The Japan Times | 3.5/5 |
Anime News Network | B+ |
Cinema Daily US | B+ |
Bloody Disgusting | 3.5/5 |
Nerdist | 3.5/5 |
The film has received positive reviews from critics, and mixed reviews from audiences:
- Hajime Kasei from IGN Japan rated the film a 7/10, stating that Shin Kamen Rider expanded more on Anno's style of creating an "inhuman world view" that was not dissimilar to his Evangelion series.[56]
- Matt Schley from The Japan Times rated the film a 3.5/5, stating that despite the film being an entertaining two-hour experience at the theaters, it would not fulfill the expectations of those who have seen Anno at his best. Regardless, Schley praised Anno for his silly yet campy 1970s style callbacks for fans of the Kamen Rider franchise.[57]
- Richard Eisenbeis from the Anime News Network rated the film a B+, praising the characters and emotional weight of the film, but criticizing the film's pacing due to its usage of an episodic format.[58]
- Nobuhiro Hosoki from Cinema Daily US scored the film a B+, praising the film's ability to stay true to the original source material while being entertaining enough even for viewers unfamiliar with it.[59]
- Noah Oskow from Unseen Japan gave the film a mixed review, praising the film's cinematography as it met expectations from past viewers of Anno's previous Shin films, but criticizing the film's visual effects and poor usage of CGI.[60]
- Alicia Haddick from Crunchyroll gave the film a positive rating, praising Anno's ability to balance fanservice and the film's core messages akin to the original series.[61]
- Paul Lê from Bloody Disgusting rated the film 3.5/5 stars, criticizing the film's episodic format and its inability to innovate the source material.[62]
- Kyle Anderson from Nerdist rated the film 3.5/5 stars, criticizing the pacing of the film and its inability to capture the more minor nuances of the original series.[63]
Notes
- Shin Kamen Rider is the third Shin live action tokusatsu film developed by Hideaki Anno, after his two previous films Shin Godzilla and Shin Ultraman. For merchandizing and promotional purposes, these three films, as well as Anno's Rebuild of Evangelion (ヱヴァンゲリヲン新劇場版, Evangerion Shin Gekijōban) anime film series, all fall under his collaborative Shin Japan Heroes Universe banner. Hideaki Anno's direction to this film is to recreate the Kamen Rider he knew using modern technologies.
- The film is the first to be produced without the involvement of Anno's frequent collaborator Shinji Higuchi, who served as both the co-director of Shin Godzilla and the sole director of Shin Ultraman.
- Similarly, the film is the first not to feature the involvement of another frequent collaborator of Anno's, Shirō Sagisu, who served as the composer for Shin Godzilla, Shin Ultraman, and the Rebuild of Evangelion series, due to already having committed to scoring both the anime adaptation of the TV series Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War and the film Gridman Universe. Instead, the film was scored by Taku Iwasaki.
- The film includes actors from Anno's two previous Shin films, such as Yutaka Takenouchi and Mikako Ichikawa from Shin Godzilla, as well as Takumi Saitoh and Masami Nagasawa from Shin Ultraman.
- The film is the first to be produced without the involvement of Anno's frequent collaborator Shinji Higuchi, who served as both the co-director of Shin Godzilla and the sole director of Shin Ultraman.
- The film's original theatrical poster, its final theatrical poster and its IMAX promotional poster are all tributes to three of Shotaro Ishinomori's drawings.
- Several BGM tracks from the original TV series are used in the film.
- Kamen Rider and Kamen Rider No. 2, respectively, were both portrayed in the film by the same two actors before and after the transformations; this was even continued into the fight scenes, while professional stunt actors were instead only used for work in stand-in and motion capture. This was unseen for many years since the real-life bike accident and resulting left leg injury of Hiroshi Fujioka in 1971. The actors for Kamen Rider No. 0, Hachi Augment-01, and Kamakiri Kamereon Augment-01 were also portrayed in the film using the same method.
Differences Between the Film and the Original TV Series
There are many differences between the film and the original TV series; some of these, however, are due to a closer reliance on the original Kamen Rider manga by Shotaro Ishinomori.
- The film takes place in 2023, while the original TV series is set in 1971.
- The origin of the film's version of SHOCKER is completely different than the one in the original TV series. Here, it was founded by a Japanese billionaire and then fell under the command of an artificial intelligence. The goal for SHOCKER had also changed from "world domination" to "humans' happiness".
- The character Ichiro Midorikawa is original to the film, adapted from the concept of Kamen Rider 0.
- Takeshi Hongo was rescued by Dr. Midorikawa and would not meet his daughter Ruriko until the doctor's murder at the hands of Man Spider. In the film, Hongo is rescued by Ruriko in SHOCKER's lab and meets up with Dr. Midorikawa in the cabin.
- Similar to Kamen Rider: The First, Hayato Ichimonji is depicted similar to his manga counterpart rather than his TV one. In the film, Hayato is depicted as an antagonist initially brainwashed by SHOCKER to oppose Hongo. After being defeated, Ruriko treated his injuries and his brainwashing was undone. He immediately joins up with Hongo and later becomes his successor as Kamen Rider No. 2.
- In the film, Ruriko is a defected member of SHOCKER who attempts to stop them. She is the one who rescues Hongo from the laboratory and does not blame him for her father's murder. She is also rewritten with a new backstory, revealed to be an artificial human created by SHOCKER.
- The original Tobei Tachibana and Kazuya Taki from the original TV series were Hongo's racing coach and FBI informant, respectively. In the film, they are Japanese agents who lead a resistance group against SHOCKER.
- Hiromi Nohara and Wasp Woman are reimagined as one composite character, Hachi Augment-01.
- Mantis Man and Shinigami Chameleon are reimagined as Kamakiri Kamereon Augment-01, and he has a connection with Kumo Augment-01, which is unseen in the original TV series.
- This film marks the first on-screen appearance of Hongo Takeshi's biological father.
- Prana is an original concept for the film, an energy that exists in all living things that the SHOCKER Augments and the Kamen Riders absorb to increase their strength. In the original TV series, Kamen Rider 1 and Kamen Rider 2 were powered by a wind turbine using normal air and a nuclear power core in their bodies.
Lore, Homages and References
- The film not only recreated a lot of extremely similar scenes based on the original TV series, but also adapted many compositions from Shotaro Ishinomori's original manga into it.
- The black trucks used by SHOCKER in the film all have "Sanei Doboku" (三栄土木 ) written on them. This was the name of a real-life and still-existing company near the Kamen Rider filming location in the 1970s that provided some of the original TV series' vehicles during filming.
- The Honda car which Kumo Augment-01 uses to kidnap Ruriko was actually owned by the late tokusatsu director Akio Jissoji.
- Coincidentally, Hongo's mutated hands are visually similar to the cover of the novel Kamen Rider: 1971-1973.
- This film reused "fading bubbles" to depict the deaths of SHOCKER's members, which had been dropped in the middle of the original TV series' run 50 years ago.
- Photos of the Midorikawa family show Midorikawa's fondness for the Suzuki T20 and Honda SL350K1 motorcycles, which were used as the basic models, respectively, for the original TV series' Cyclone and remodeled Cyclone.
- The code printed on the frame for I is "710403", the release date of the first episode of the original TV series.
- Kamen Rider No. 2 breaking Kamen Rider's left leg in the film is another reference to the original TV series' origin of Kamen Rider 2, the consequence of Hiroshi Fujioka's real-life bike accident and resulting left leg injury in 1971 during filming.
- The film also has deep references to many other Ishinomori heroes, such as Robot Keiji, Kikaider, Inazuman, and Kaiketsu Zubat:
- K and his predecessor model J are based on Robot Keiji's titular character and Kikaider himself, respectively.
- Elements of Inazuman's design are incorporated into Ichiro's transformation into Kamen Rider No. 0.
- The sound effect of the Kamen Riders' helmets opening and closing are directly reused from the same sound clip of Kaiketsu Zubat's mask opening and closing.
- Elements from Hideaki Anno's previous works, such as the Evangelion TV series and the film Nadia: The Secret of Blue Water, also influenced the film's style.
- A prop sign for Coffee House COL is featured in the film's alley scene, a reference to the TV series Kamen Rider X.
Deleted Scenes and Footage
As revealed in an NHK tie-in documentary and many other official sources, many filmed scenes were removed from the final cut of the film (not including the made-up scenes that were both created in order to confuse film audiences and connected to the product "Shin Kamen Rider Snacks"):
- Scenes from Act 1, such as Kumo Augment-01's soldiers triggering the machine gun against the mask of Kamen Rider,[64] SHOCKER Low-Class Members surrounding Kamen Rider (made as a tribute to an original TV series episode),[65] and an extended battle between Kumo Augment-01 and Kamen Rider on the riverbank[64] were all cut from the film.
- For Ruriko Midorikawa, a single shot filmed in 360 degrees and focusing on her introducing SHOCKER,[66] a short fight scene with Koumori Augment-01,[67] and several extended lines of dialogue referencing Sarracenia Augment-01 during her meeting with Hachi Augment-01[68] were all either edited or cut from the film for reasons of length.
- Additional lines from Hayato Ichimonji's monologue were cut from the scene where he watches Hongo ride on his bike from afar.[69]
- Most of the scenes featuring the live action suits of the Phase Variation Batta Augments were cut from the film, including two group fight scenes in a factory,[64] a test filming sequence on a roof,[70] and the original version of Kamen Rider's bike stand-off with the 11 Phase Variation Batta Augments, set outdoors in a rainy scene as a homage to the battle with the SHOCKER Riders in Shotaro Ishinomori's original manga.[71]
- An alternative version of the ending with the film's title logo, seemingly intended to be a homage to the title sequence of the second half of the original TV series' run, was filmed but never used. This scene would also end with both of the Double Riders riding on the bridge together.[72]
- The film's theatrical release included an after credits montage of the original TV series and some clips of the film, followed by a message that commemorated 50 years of Kamen Rider. This was cut from the film's Amazon Prime international streaming edition.
Future
In April 2023, a screening event was held with Hideaki Anno, Sosuke Ikematsu, Tasuku Emoto, Minami Hamabe, and Mirai Moriyama among the guests who attended the event. When asked about plans for the future, Anno revealed that he is currently pitching a sequel to Shin Kamen Rider, titled Shin Kamen Rider: Masker World (シン・仮面ライダー 仮面の世界, Shin Kamen Raidā Masukā Wārudo),[73]
The story would be an adaptation of the final chapter of Shotaro Ishinomori's original manga. It will focus on Hayato Ichimonji's battles against SHOCKER, with Takeshi Hongo providing him guidance throughout. Meanwhile, the Japanese government intends to create an artificial intelligence that is at the same level as SHOCKER's, which entices politicians and bureaucrats to join SHOCKER's side and carry out various activities.
Anno has laid out plans for the sequel since the development of the first film and has expressed his desire for Toei Company to give him the green light to go ahead.[73][74][75] However, Anno stated he wouldn't start right away, as he was exhausted from working non-stop for over 30 years and had decided to finally take a break from work until he recovered.
Videos
References
- ↑ The Shin in the title has a variety of meanings, including new (新 ), true (真 ), and god (神 )
- ↑ Monthly Newtype Vol. 37, No. 6, KADOKAWA LTD. (May 10, 2021), pp. 54-55
- ↑ https://twitter.com/khara_inc2/status/1660154799005007872
- ↑ https://twitter.com/khara_inc2/status/1654402628091252736
- ↑ https://twitter.com/Shin_KR/status/1440828362360905736
- ↑ Pen202304 2023 , pp. 54–55, "Takeshi Hongo x Sosuke Ikematsu"
- ↑ Pen202304 2023 , pp. 48-49, "Takeshi Hongo x Sosuke Ikematsu"
- ↑ Pen202304 2023 , pp. 56–57, "Ruriko Midorikawa x Minami Hamabe"
- ↑ https://twitter.com/Shin_KR/status/1443093215653990406
- ↑ https://mobile.twitter.com/khara_inc2/status/1447092112864907264
- ↑ https://twitter.com/Shin_KR/status/1458796705395077125
- ↑ https://twitter.com/shin_kr/status/1576769006572343299
- ↑ https://twitter.com/khara_inc2/status/1449183301994835977
- ↑ https://mobile.twitter.com/Shin_KR/status/1450944951307554817
- ↑ https://mobile.twitter.com/Shin_KR/status/1453662859188047885
- ↑ https://mobile.twitter.com/Shin_KR/status/1472854325160718341
- ↑ "シン・仮面ライダー徹底研究" "[Shin Kamen Rider: Thorough Research]". Pen (in Japanese) No. 538. CCC Media House. February 28, 2023. ASIN B0BTD46S3Q
- ↑ パンフレット 2023, pp. 30–31, 「STAFF INTERVIEWS 白倉信一郎 紀伊宗之」
- ↑ Design Works 2022 , pp. 73–75, ""Shin Ultraman" Notes Hideaki Anno"
- ↑ https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/interest/2021-08-09/hideaki-anno-teases-shin-kamen-rider-in-latest-bonbori-lantern/.176013
- ↑ https://tokusatsunetwork.com/2021/08/shin-kamen-rider-filming-preparation-has-begun/
- ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xdxFwUqKc-A
- ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R2Xi85vmSfc
- ↑ https://mobile.twitter.com/khara_inc2/status/1447092112864907264
- ↑ https://mobile.twitter.com/Shin_KR/status/1477226548650733568
- ↑ https://mobile.twitter.com/khara_inc2/1454358353300234243
- ↑ http://ukiyaseed.weebly.com/ukiyaseeds-other-blog/shin-kamen-rider-shocker-revealed
- ↑ https://mobile.twitter.com/Shin_KR/status/1504642847890636804
- ↑ https://mobile.twitter.com/Shin_KR/status/1510565272297607172
- ↑ https://mobile.twitter.com/Shin_KR/status/1531561124918964224
- ↑ https://twitter.com/PizzapotatoC/status/1587731247199096834
- ↑ https://twitter.com/Shin_KR/status/1589377085696610306
- ↑ https://twitter.com/Shin_KR/status/1621010524736557056
- ↑ https://twitter.com/Shin_KR/status/1621011066800209920?cxt=HHwWgIDU2cG-_v4sAAAA
- ↑ https://twitter.com/Shin_KR/status/1611162003388735490
- ↑ https://twitter.com/Shin_KR/status/1621848545153220609?cxt=HHwWgoC81ZWq-4EtAAAA
- ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PUcK-59_ykI
- ↑ https://twitter.com/Shin_KR/status/1623993046370222080
- ↑ https://twitter.com/Shin_KR/status/1624574006534852610?cxt=HHwWhMC-rfPc0ostAAAA
- ↑ https://www.shin-kamen-rider.jp/news/561/
- ↑ https://twitter.com/Shin_KR/status/1626391849354301440
- ↑ https://twitter.com/tjoy_cp/status/1628953028572385281
- ↑ https://www.pen-online.jp/article/012675.html
- ↑ https://twitter.com/Shin_KR/status/1632667344827990016?cxt=HHwWgIDSzZiTs6gtAAAA
- ↑ https://twitter.com/khara_inc/status/1634798951034679296?cxt=HHwWgMDTuYC__K8tAAAA
- ↑ https://www.motorcycleshow.org/event/50/detail16.html
- ↑ https://twitter.com/marui_anime/status/1651798393059184640?cxt=HHwWgMDUreH4ruwtAAAA
- ↑ https://www.shin-kamen-rider.jp/news/1449/
- ↑ https://www.fathomevents.com/events/Shin-Kamen-Rider
- ↑ https://twitter.com/japansociety/status/1656299192459952128
- ↑ https://www.shin-kamen-rider.jp/news/1360/
- ↑ https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=216134974583518&set=a.114825838047766
- ↑ https://www.shin-kamen-rider.jp/news/1490/
- ↑ https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2023-03-21/live-action-my-happy-marriage-film-opens-at-no.1-shin-kamen-rider-opens-at-no.2/.196177
- ↑ https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2023-04-24/shin-kamen-rider-film-becomes-highest-earning-kamen-rider-film/.197411
- ↑ https://jp.ign.com/topic-6/66628/review/
- ↑ https://www.japantimes.co.jp/culture/2023/03/23/films/film-reviews/shin-kamen-rider/
- ↑ https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/review/shin-kamen-rider/.196199
- ↑ https://cinemadailyus.com/reviews/shin-kamen-rider-review-a-solid-film-and-a-love-letter-to-one-of-the-grandfathers-of-the-tokusatsu-tv-shows/
- ↑ https://unseenjapan.com/review-shin-kamen-rider-is-a-fun-step-down-for-shin-series/
- ↑ https://www.crunchyroll.com/anime-feature/2023/04/04/review-shin-kamen-rider-the-movie-only-hideaki-anno-could-make
- ↑ https://bloody-disgusting.com/reviews/3764051/shin-kamen-rider-review-an-emotional-reimagining-of-the-grandfather-of-tokusatsus-origin-story/
- ↑ https://nerdist.com/article/shin-kamen-rider-review-hideaki-anno/
- ↑ 64.0 64.1 64.2 Shin Kamen Rider ~ Behind the Scenes of Hero Action Challenge ~ (「シン・仮面ライダー」〜ヒーローアクション挑戦の舞台裏〜 ) (2023) Directed by NHK. NHK Documentary (accessed March 3, 2023).
- ↑ https://kamenrider.fandom.com/wiki/File:SKR-Shocker_iconic_surrounding.jpg
- ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qfUwV0B9dwU
- ↑ https://twitter.com/khara_inc2/status/1654342688144261120
- ↑ https://twitter.com/Shin_KR/status/1653700928103432192
- ↑ https://twitter.com/Shin_KR/status/1653549934853881856
- ↑ https://twitter.com/khara_inc2/status/1659427489213734912
- ↑ https://twitter.com/Shin_KR/status/1653897225716596736
- ↑ https://twitter.com/khara_inc2/status/1660186406726295552
- ↑ 73.0 73.1 https://www.oricon.co.jp/news/2274780/full/
- ↑ https://www.cinematoday.jp/news/N0136119
- ↑ https://news.yahoo.co.jp/articles/2f9a0667bd861a4324df39fd127b48785c430a67