Chouseishin Gransazer

Direction and Screenplay by: Eberechi Azu

Produced by: Toho, Konami

Release Date: October 4, 2003-2004

Lenght: 51 Episodes, 25 minutes each

In light of the relatively recent news that Super Sentai will end, and replaced by a combination of it and Metal Heroes through Project R.E.D. I felt we should end the year looking back on one of the most interesting series inspired by it. Gransazer was the first of a trilogy that sprung from a collaborative effort between Toho and Konami, as the former's most recent attempt to join the Henshin Hero market, in light of Godzilla's Millenium series losing their steam with diminishing returns at the box office.

The premise that makes this show stand out over it's competitor was the grand total of 12 heroes, predating Kyuranger's own cast by a decade. Where the show differs from the Space Squadron though is that the Gransazers are divided in 4 teams of 3. The first two teams introduced, the Fire and Wind tribe, are in direct conflict with one another at the start of the show. As the two other tribes get involved and the plot advances, we learn more about the show's backstory and why this is happening in the first place. An exciting tale involving the legacy of an ancient civilazation, an intergalactic war and personal drama. The show remains intriguing and enganging throughout it's entire run.

Another thing that makes the show stand out is the quality and budget of it's giant mech and monster fights. Toho takes full advantage from it's experience in the field of Daikaiju film-making to deliver much better choreographed action with far more articulated costumes compared to how constricted in movement the Sentai series tends to close their episodes. The soundtrack is also incredible, with the ending theme, Kimi Wo Tsurete Iku, being my personal favourite.

Overall, an extremely enjoyable series that I gladly recommend to anybody in a Sentai mood, but wants to see a unique take on the format. It showcases and combines the appeal of the narrative and spectacle that make Tokusatsu such a joy to watch.