[Kamen Rider Die]

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Originally Posted by FreshToku

Did you already know that bench is an iconic shot even before you picked it as a screenshot, or is just knack for finding the right one just that good? Anyway, yeah, it's no surprise to me that this finale is exceptionally fondly remembered, both for how powerful it is and just how unique it is too compared to what's come before and after. I don't know if it'd make my top five or so ranking of final episodes, but it's definitely one of the most memorable regardless, especially since in this era without v-cinemas or winter crossovers, this was the absolute final note that Blade would leave on it's viewers.

That empty bench is an image that's exquisitely crafted to make me cry. Him smiling. Man. Man. I need another minute.

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Originally Posted by FreshToku

Minor thing I feel like pointing out, but it sure was weird how Tachibana and, like, BOARD man just casually entered this episode but then didn't amount to much. You'd think the whole point of making us think Tachibana was dead would be to then have him make a dramatic reappearance, but nope, he just shows up and is like 'yeah i'm still alive no big deal'.

There's an alternate universe version of that episode's post where I spend a bunch of time laughing hysterically at Karasuma's dramatic reappearance and bullshit cover story. ("Oh, I really wanted to help you out, but, uh... Tennouji was trying to kill me! In Tibet! For some reason!") He's only here to convey Kenzaki's plan to Team Blade, and therefore the audience, but it's done so nicely that I forgive the show this one last stupid Karasuma appearance.

Tachibana... I honestly never thought he was dead. We never saw a body! That's rule #1 in Kamen Rider deaths! There has to be a body!

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Originally Posted by FreshToku

I know you're not done with the thread quite yet, but this was another nice one! Blade arguably didn't give you as much crunchy and thematic meat as something like Faiz or Ryuki did (and hey, those two shows are probably going to remain exceptional in that regard), but I can kinda just tell from your posts how this show (and especially Garren) has just been a whole lot of fun for you.

Thanks! I, uh, I definitely still got some thoughts on how this show (and thread!) went. But it's Kamen Rider, and Kamen Rider's always fun to watch. Always.

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Originally Posted by ShyGuy

Since I watched Blade for the first time a few years ago, there's a lot of things about it that have stood out in my memory since then. The memes of course, the silliness that is so prevalent in so much of the show. The great suits, the fun characters. But above everything else, the one thing that has stuck with me the most is that single image of the empty park bench, and everything it stands for. The ending of Blade is, without a doubt, my favorite ending of any Kamen Rider season. None other even comes close. And I have to thank you for the great words you wrote about it, you so eloquently stated everything I love so much about it.

Thanks! I really like an ending that feels more about the relationships the show has built up, rather than some plot machinations. This one, it's got some trickery in it (Kenzaki's plan probably came as a surprise to somebody), but it's really just about how deeply KEnzaki cares for people in general, and Hajime specifically. And honestly, I feel like it's just the former? I think Kenzaki would've done the same thing for Tachibana, or Mutsuki, or Kotaro, or anyone. And I think he'd be happy to do it. He's a very sweet boy!