Kamen Rider Black Sun is a Japanese tokusatsu TV series that originally aired from 1987 to 1988. It is the eighth installment in the Kamen Rider franchise and is known for its darker tone and more complex plot compared to its predecessors. The series follows the story of Kotaro Minami, a young man who is transformed into Kamen Rider Black to fight against the evil organization known as Gorgom, which is bent on creating a world of darkness ruled by their leader, the Great Leader.
At first glance, Kamen Rider Black Sun may seem like just another superhero show aimed at children. However, it quickly becomes apparent that this series is much more than that. The series deals with dark and mature themes such as death, betrayal, and loss, which makes it a standout among other tokusatsu shows.
One of the most notable aspects of Kamen Rider Black Sun is its main character, Kotaro Minami. Unlike other Kamen Riders who are usually portrayed as righteous and heroic individuals, Kotaro is initially depicted as a rebellious and impulsive teenager who doesn’t believe in heroes or fighting for a cause. However, as the series progresses, Kotaro grows and matures, becoming more responsible and selfless, as he learns the importance of fighting for what is right.
Another standout element of Kamen Rider Black Sun is its villain, the Great Leader. Unlike most villains in other tokusatsu shows who are portrayed as one-dimensional and evil, the Great Leader is a complex character who has a tragic backstory and a genuine motivation for his actions. He believes that the world is already filled with too much pain and suffering, and the only way to end it is to create a world of eternal darkness. While his ultimate goal is misguided, the Great Leader’s character adds depth and nuance to the series.
The series also has a strong supporting cast of characters, each with their own unique personality and backstory. Tetsuo Kurata, who played Kotaro Minami, delivers an outstanding performance, capturing the character’s growth and development throughout the series. His chemistry with his co-stars is also noteworthy, especially with the character of Katsumi Kida, who serves as his mentor and ally.
Despite its dark and serious tone, Kamen Rider Black Sun also has moments of light-heartedness and humor, which helps balance out the more heavy themes. The series also has some of the most memorable designs for Kamen Rider suits, which are still popular among fans to this day.
Kamen Rider Black Sun is a groundbreaking series that paved the way for darker themes and more complex storytelling in tokusatsu shows. It is a prime example of how a series aimed at children can also be enjoyed by adults, thanks to its nuanced characters, mature themes, and engaging storyline. Its legacy can still be seen in modern tokusatsu shows, which continue to explore dark and complex themes.
In conclusion, Kamen Rider Black Sun is a must-watch for any fan of tokusatsu shows, as well as for those who are interested in exploring more mature and complex storytelling in the superhero genre. Its message of hope and the power of human perseverance in the face of darkness will continue to inspire viewers for generations to come.