Shin Masked Rider (2023)

Back from the ether and here on the nostalgia streets with another bundle of retro content to think back on.

Currently streaming on Amazon Prime is the recent film by Hideaki Anno (Evangelion, Shin Ultraman, Shin Godzilla) and the newest live-action interpretation of the beloved Kamen Rider franchise.

Sosuke Ikematsu stars as our masked rider, Takeshi Hong. Hong is a motorcycle enthusiast that after being abducted experimented and turned into an augmented hybrid cyborg that is enlisted in the fight against an evil organization of “Augs” threatening to take over the world by any means necessary.

The film does start off slow and will have moments where the characters and story can breathe and flesh themselves out. But, make no mistake this is an action movie. In fact – this is probably one of the best superhero films on the year (in my opinion). The action is brutal and visceral and well filmed; the whole movie is filmed very well with decent pacing. For a live-action Japanese movie Shin Masked Rider is outstanding.

Based on the manga by Shotaro Ishinomori , this entry in the franchise celebrates 50 years of Kamen Rider that consists of numerous television series and feature films. It was released in Japan on March of 2023, earning $16 million dollars making it the highest grossing film in the series and receiving positive reviews from critics.  

Currently available to view Free on Amazon PRIME with original Japanese dialogue with English subtitles optional.

Shin Masked Rider is a definite recommendation and worthy of your time.

Stay Tuned tomorrow for the return of the Retro Movie handpicked by yours truly. Until then, stay cool, stay dry and always keep your finger on that REWIND button.