[Locke]

W 14.

This wasn't a particularly good episode, but three strong moments really made the episode memorable all the same.

Firstly, in the "watered down" era of Neo-Heisei, I wasn't surprised when Wakana backed out of killing Nexus Chick. But then for Nazca to appear a second later, and (at least it hinted at) murder her for Wakana...like holy shit, shit's getting real!

Secondly, I loved that W caught the Manager as he fell. I know it was a completely throwaway moment but it kinda defines what sets these guys apart. And it also suggests the story isn't over, as soon as the monster is defeated, kinda like how Black'd end every episode with about fifty dangling plotthreads but oh well the monster is dead time to roll credits.

Finally, I love how the Sonozaki family are actual characters. First and foremost, they are humans, with personalities, goals and personal motivations. They aren't just rubber suits to knock down.

There are Kamen Rider shows where you could cut out the suit fighting, because it's so disconnected from the show, it may as well be another show entirely but then there are shows like W, where the strength of the non suited stuff is so good, it could perfectly stand on its own without the action and the toys. W is a solid drama, a solid story, the action is just an extra treat. Or it will be, when they tone down the atrocious CG.