[Locke]

Kyoryuger 8.

As we go from the formation of the team, to now providing greater focus on the members in it and also introducing a new Zord and Ranger, it doesn't even feel like I've just skipped three episodes at all. Honestly I can't even imagine what they could have been about to not even notice I skipped them. Also Nobu's sister is a babe.

In terms of the episode, this was surprisingly fucked up. Parading peoples lost loved ones in front of them, which draws them into a labyrinth in another dimension that they can't escape from. Even the ultimate way to escape from the labyrinth was kinda twisted, in that Nobu's sister had to accept her husband was dead. Not exactly the most uplinking or cheerful way to resolve this.

It was a strong episode from Nobu duh it was a focus episode for him - but I loved the line "Probably because I'm a superhero." That is my kind of Ranger. Also, aw, is he wearing Keichi's jacket?

It wasn't flawless though, I'm guessing Rika's explanation for not getting tricked was supposed to be emotional and powerful but I was more distracted by how she sounded like no child ever.

"Are you saying I'm not one of the smart ones?" Ami asks, to which King gives a nod so cocksure, I can't help but wonder if this is allegory for the way sentai treats women.

Oh yeah and the fucking tickle battery, that can get fucked.

Kyoryuger 09.

This show is a lot darker than I remember it being meaning in turn the goofiness is even less fitting than I realised, even if the show itself doesn't seem to realise how dark some of its concepts are. From the Spirit Rangers and the inherent notation that there are those who have died fighting as Kyoryuger, the scenes of Utchy's friends murdered on the battlefield by Deboss and the scenes of Pteragordon rampaging in the city as people scream and run.

This episode also had some great action. They really are a strong, functioning team - King is especially badass, but this episode really did a good job of making each member of the team feel purposeful - at least until Ami and Souji got captured, dammit >.<. Although I love Go-Buster Ace, Evil Pteraidenoh is one of the coolest mechs ever . Also it is awesome is seeing KyoryuGold fight in the past.

About the only downside of the episode, is that Evil Pteraidenoh's time in the sun is so brief, and that the flashback with KyoryuGold is so rushed. The Cambeastian is so goofy looking considering it's meant to be this elite monster. Plus the whole twist with DoGold is super dumb.