Doug Klinger and Jason Baum talk about the notable music videos from 2021.
Once Fujioka recovered, Hongo returned to Japan. The show entered its golden era, featuring both Kamen Rider 1 and Kamen Rider 2 fighting side-by-side as the "Double Riders." They faced upgraded threats, shifting from Shocker to the even more ruthless Gel-Shocker organization, culminating in an epic finale that cemented their status as legendary protectors of Earth. Shocker: The Architecture of Terror
For international fans, the original series has become significantly more accessible in recent years: Kamen Rider 1971 - 1973 -English Subbed-
The series codified the concept of "Henshin" (transformation), a trope that has become a staple of tokusatsu and anime. A seemingly ordinary person dramatically changing into a costumed hero—complete with a belt, a pose, and special effects—became a sensation. This sparked the "Henshin Boom" in Japan, influencing countless shows that followed. Once Fujioka recovered, Hongo returned to Japan
For many years, this series was only available to English-speaking fans through unofficial "fansubs." However, it has seen official English releases in recent years: A seemingly ordinary person dramatically changing into a
Before they can brainwash him, Hongo escapes with the help of his former teacher, Professor Midorikawa. Now, using his newfound powers and his customized motorcycle, the , Hongo fights as Kamen Rider 1 to protect humanity from Shocker’s mutants.