For many fans of Japanese animation and tokusatsu, Toonami holds a special place in their hearts. The late-night programming block on Cartoon Network introduced generations to anime and tokusatsu series, fostering a vibrant community and lasting impact on Western pop culture. However, one series that many feel was tragically absent from its lineup is Kamen Rider Agito. This article explores why Kamen Rider Agito would have been a perfect fit for Toonami and delves into the reasons behind its absence.
Why Kamen Rider Agito Would Have Been a Perfect Toonami Show
Kamen Rider Agito, airing in 2001, offered a compelling blend of action, mystery, and compelling character development that would have resonated strongly with Toonami's audience. The show's blend of high-octane fight sequences, intriguing storylines involving ancient prophecies and powerful monsters, and its exploration of themes of heroism, sacrifice, and the human condition would have been a welcome addition to the block's diverse roster.
Here's why it would have been a success:
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Action-Packed Fights: The series features consistently impressive fight choreography, showcasing the unique powers and fighting styles of the Kamen Riders. These visually stunning battles, coupled with a distinct sense of visual flair, are a hallmark of tokusatsu and perfectly suited to the action-oriented nature of Toonami.
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Compelling Mystery: The mystery surrounding the origins of the "Unknowns" and the Rider's connection to ancient prophecies would have kept viewers engaged. The ongoing investigation and the gradual unveiling of secrets would have been ideal for a serialized format like Toonami's.
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Strong Character Development: Agito features a cast of complex characters with their own motivations and internal conflicts. The protagonist, Gentarou, is not a flawless hero; he struggles with his doubts, fears, and the immense responsibility of protecting humanity. This relatable character would have appealed to the discerning Toonami audience.
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Mature Themes: The series grapples with mature themes such as loss, sacrifice, and the cost of heroism, making it a richer viewing experience than some other shows of its time. This maturity would have differentiated it from many other shows on the block, offering a deeper layer of storytelling.
What other Kamen Rider series did Toonami air?
Toonami aired Kamen Rider Kuuga, the first entry in the Heisei Kamen Rider era. While Kuuga paved the way, Agito built upon its foundation, creating an even more polished and action-packed series. The lack of Agito following Kuuga remains a point of contention for many fans. The absence of Agito might have been due to various factors, including licensing agreements, scheduling conflicts, and the overall selection process for programming.
Could Toonami still air Kamen Rider Agito?
While a direct broadcast on Toonami now might be unlikely given the passage of time and the evolution of programming blocks, the enduring popularity of Kamen Rider Agito and the continued interest in tokusatsu series offer potential for alternative platforms like streaming services or even a dedicated tokusatsu block on a different network. The potential exists, and the demand from fans certainly remains.
Why wasn't Kamen Rider Agito on Toonami? (The licensing question)
The most likely reason for Kamen Rider Agito's absence is simply down to licensing issues. Securing the rights to broadcast a show internationally can be complex and expensive, and it's possible that the licensing negotiations for Agito were unsuccessful or deemed unprofitable at the time. This unfortunately remains a plausible explanation, highlighting the realities of television broadcasting.
In conclusion, Kamen Rider Agito's absence from Toonami is a missed opportunity. Its blend of action, mystery, character development, and mature themes would have made it a strong addition to the block's impressive lineup. While licensing and scheduling likely played key roles in its exclusion, the enduring popularity of the show and its distinct qualities keep it a top choice for fans wishing to have seen it on Toonami.
