[Kiwami]

I watched the first two episodes of Stronger and I like it. It's a huge step back in presentation from Super-1, but it is like 5 years older so there's that, and so far it still needs to find it's rhythm as we just about learned the basics on characters and their world.

Still, Stronger as a Rider is pretty great, I really like Shigeru's attitude and I love his whistling before he enters the scene. It reminds me of Protoman from the MegaMan franchise, and I wouldn't be surprised if Stronger had an influence on that. The electric and magnetic powers as a fighting effect are pretty cool too.

Tackle's an interesting character as well, I like the idea of a female partner for a Rider. Although it is a bit uncomfortable at times since Tackle usually only beats a few grunts before the main monster kicks her butt and before she get's captured, only to be saved by Stronger. And then there's lots of "Well, you're a woman, so..." kinda comments which aren't very nice.

But it is what it is, I'm aware that the show is a product of its time, I take it as a chance to remind myself that this kind of crap isn't okay anymore. At least not on television for kids.

Aside from that, it's a fun show so far with a lot of cool ideas. Shigeru going into the bad guy's hideout himself, demanding to be remodeled as a cyborg only to use that power against them is badass. That's a really nice way to put a new twist on the old "Hero get's captured and rebuild against his will"-origin story that many Showa Riders seem to share.

I'll happily keep going in hopes that the second half won't put the spotlight on a Junior Rider Squad

Also, this made me laugh, the editor had his fun with the famous noises of the bad guys: