Series Recommendation: Shikizakura
I will become the hero I wanted to be!
HENSHIN!
HENSHIN!
Superhero animes aren’t non-existent, but we got very few of them in these recent years. Direct adaptations from existing Tokusatsu franchises is super rare – with Gridman, Fuuto Tantei and Kikaider being one of the more prevalent ones. But as both a Toku fan and an anime fan, we always wish for a great combination of the two – with henshin heroes in anime format that will get us excited to see dudes in tight spandex armor duke it out. And in 2021, we got exactly that, with a series called Shikizakura.
At first, Shikizakura teased a very Kamen Rider-esque motif and aesthetic. And that got us pretty excited. After that, it’s revealed the series is also a sort-of tourism advert for the city of Nagoya – as the singers and seiyuus are also from the Toukai region – where the anime took place. It is a pretty interesting idea. And the more we see of the anime – the more we are reminded of local heroes – such as Dogengers – animated. And given the quality of some popular local heroes in Japan, we have high hopes for the anime. The anime has 12-episodes and was broadcasted in October 2021 – the season with NINE other mecha shows. Having a toku-inspired anime among the giant robot shows is a really good way to spice up the flavor and set itself apart.
+ Plot: Shikizakura’s premise is quite simple and straightforward. Pretty much the basic stuff you got at the start of a Kamen Rider show. Evil onis from the past are awakening at an alarming rate, and human warriors that don mechanical armor called “Yoroi” stand up to face them. Our main character – Kakeru Miwa – was a survivor of an oni attack in his early childhood, and he grew up wanting to become a hero that save others just like the people that saved him that day. However, “becoming what you hate” is often the case in these hero story, and Kakeru’s only way to become a hero is to equip a Yoroi haunted by a powerful Obi – Ibara. Can Kakeru resist Ibara’s power and become the hero that he wished for?
Overall, the simplicity of the plot is a good move, considering what the series’ main intent is. As usual, we have a diverse cast of side characters that fight alongside Kakeru – the 2nd, 3rd and 4th Riders so to speak, and each of them has their own issues to worry about. And Kakeru – being the busybody and idealistic hero-wannabe that he is, stick his nose into everyone’s business and help them through their struggle. It is Kakeru’s naivete yet burning sense of justice that became the integral core for the series to develop the side cast, and in turn Kakeru as well. His relationship with Ouka is both wholesome, tumultuous and heart-warming. You can say it’s a “white knight and a princess” cliché, but they did a very good job with Ouka’s internal struggle with her “destiny”. Furthermore, there are some plot twists included as well, but due to the simple and straightforward plotline, some of them are quite obvious and predictable, but there are some twists that even veterans wouldn’t see coming.
+ Plot: Shikizakura’s premise is quite simple and straightforward. Pretty much the basic stuff you got at the start of a Kamen Rider show. Evil onis from the past are awakening at an alarming rate, and human warriors that don mechanical armor called “Yoroi” stand up to face them. Our main character – Kakeru Miwa – was a survivor of an oni attack in his early childhood, and he grew up wanting to become a hero that save others just like the people that saved him that day. However, “becoming what you hate” is often the case in these hero story, and Kakeru’s only way to become a hero is to equip a Yoroi haunted by a powerful Obi – Ibara. Can Kakeru resist Ibara’s power and become the hero that he wished for?
Overall, the simplicity of the plot is a good move, considering what the series’ main intent is. As usual, we have a diverse cast of side characters that fight alongside Kakeru – the 2nd, 3rd and 4th Riders so to speak, and each of them has their own issues to worry about. And Kakeru – being the busybody and idealistic hero-wannabe that he is, stick his nose into everyone’s business and help them through their struggle. It is Kakeru’s naivete yet burning sense of justice that became the integral core for the series to develop the side cast, and in turn Kakeru as well. His relationship with Ouka is both wholesome, tumultuous and heart-warming. You can say it’s a “white knight and a princess” cliché, but they did a very good job with Ouka’s internal struggle with her “destiny”. Furthermore, there are some plot twists included as well, but due to the simple and straightforward plotline, some of them are quite obvious and predictable, but there are some twists that even veterans wouldn’t see coming.
+ Animation: Well, this is where we’re split with the series. The anime is done with full CGI from top to bottom. And that usually means two things for mecha: great mechs, bad human. For Shikizakura, there’s no giant robots but just people in mechanical suits, essentially human in a way. But Shikizakura for some reason has overcome the shortcoming of human fight scenes, but still succumb to the normal scenes. The action scenes include very exaggerated movements and very “flowery” attacks, which is quite familiar to us henshin hero fans. Overall, Shikizakura really captured the essence of Tokusastsu combat and made it cool in the anime.
For normal human character interaction, their movement are quite stiff, jerky and of course, their facial expressions feel fell forced, but thankfully not by a large margin. Studio Sublimation has worked on many other series’ CG, but I think this is just the inherent limitation of the technology as well as time/resource constraints. One day, when we perfect efficient human CG animation, anime will definitely undergo a massive change.
+ Suits Design: Shikizakura costume designs are pretty cool. It is actually very reminiscent of Dogengers and some Zero-One as well with the arms and legs design. The heads having digital display on the outside with some minimal differences give us a mix between Sentai and KR vibe. The use of minimal neon details give us a simple yet futuristic feel to the suit. Of course, the main character suit has some element of an “oni” to it, to signify that it’s “haunted”. The effect and inner workings of the suits aren’t really explained – which is quite normal in a KR series – they just magically Henshin and everything’s good to go.
The Oni design are also pretty good. The grunts are quite gruesome looking and the bosses are pretty much diabolical. However, some shots of the grunt oni looks pretty chinky and…dumb, but those are just minor nitpicks. They are onis so they can look like whatever they want.
For normal human character interaction, their movement are quite stiff, jerky and of course, their facial expressions feel fell forced, but thankfully not by a large margin. Studio Sublimation has worked on many other series’ CG, but I think this is just the inherent limitation of the technology as well as time/resource constraints. One day, when we perfect efficient human CG animation, anime will definitely undergo a massive change.
+ Suits Design: Shikizakura costume designs are pretty cool. It is actually very reminiscent of Dogengers and some Zero-One as well with the arms and legs design. The heads having digital display on the outside with some minimal differences give us a mix between Sentai and KR vibe. The use of minimal neon details give us a simple yet futuristic feel to the suit. Of course, the main character suit has some element of an “oni” to it, to signify that it’s “haunted”. The effect and inner workings of the suits aren’t really explained – which is quite normal in a KR series – they just magically Henshin and everything’s good to go.
The Oni design are also pretty good. The grunts are quite gruesome looking and the bosses are pretty much diabolical. However, some shots of the grunt oni looks pretty chinky and…dumb, but those are just minor nitpicks. They are onis so they can look like whatever they want.
+ Music: We got some pretty good songs for the series. The opening is upbeat, refreshing and suitable for a “dreamy” hero by Asaka. The ending is titled “Shikizakura” just like the show and performed by May’n – who we all know as the singing voice of Sheryl Nome in Macross Frontier. The ED is a slow and emotional song about sakura blossoms and hope (just like the show itself). One can say this song is more “main” than the OP. All in all, this department is covered.
+ Conclusion: Overall, Shikizakura is an entertaining tokusatsu-inspired anime. Its only shortcomings are the sometimes awkward character animation and the length of the series. Usually Toku series has a lot of episodes to flesh out the story and characters, for Shikizakura, the episode count limit what they can do with the plot and characters, so it’s pretty straightforward and predictable. However, in return we have some very badass action scenes and some really good suit design. Unfortunately there are no merch for the Yorois just yet, would be awesome if we get some Bandai SHF with Kamen Rider engineering. It would be perfect for the series.
+ Conclusion: Overall, Shikizakura is an entertaining tokusatsu-inspired anime. Its only shortcomings are the sometimes awkward character animation and the length of the series. Usually Toku series has a lot of episodes to flesh out the story and characters, for Shikizakura, the episode count limit what they can do with the plot and characters, so it’s pretty straightforward and predictable. However, in return we have some very badass action scenes and some really good suit design. Unfortunately there are no merch for the Yorois just yet, would be awesome if we get some Bandai SHF with Kamen Rider engineering. It would be perfect for the series.
Check out more recommendations:
A combination between Japanese myths and mecha. An intricate relationship between 2 girls and one guy, with intense Super Robot combat in-between.
A chance to see the A.D Police from Bubblegum Crisis in honorable action. Two detectives take on cases of rampage Boomers, unraveling a sinister plot that can change the world.
An apocalyptic tale of burning sand and monsters. A young man set out for vengeance, acquiring the usual hot chick and robot buddy on the way.
A refreshing tale about how the best of friends became sworn rivals. A vibrant, well animated movie where characters shine through their own merits, and bring a new wind to the franchise.
The fruit of collaboration with Japan Air Self-Defense Force, the air combat scenes of this anime is what set it apart
Despite often being overlooked by newer fans, After War Gundam X is a must watch for any Gundam lovers.
Passion makes satisfaction. A group of student show what they can accomplish with a mecha short film that leaves you desperately wanting more!
A seemingly impossible task of building Mazinger Z hangar in real life. A ragtag team of a planning company assembled the Fantasy Division to turn fiction into reality.
A light-hearted series that turned into intense space opera. The Girl Who Leapt Through Space leaps through many genre to deliver a unique experience and turn everyone’s expectation upside down.
A desolate planet now submerged in liquid. A totally unique and fresh mecha series where all the robots are underwater. Oh and there’s also a talking whale.
A love story that spans through 12000 years. The war between Angels and humans fueled by passionate emotions. Shoji Kawamori shows us why he’s the master of the sky.
What happens if we mix Mahou Shoujo, Mecha and Battle Royale into one? We get Granbelm – an emotional story about the lives of young girls entangled in an ancient war.
In the city of smoke and steam, a young kid works as a detective alongside his nurse and butler to protect the peace. An old classic for fans of the steampunk style.
The 2nd season of the lovely Mass-Produced Riko series. Join Riko and co as they embark on an all new venture, while drawing interesting lesson from building plastic models.
The long-awaited continuation of the mecha isekai of pain. Season 2 of Muv-Luv Alternative is definitely trying to woo you by slamming intense scenes at you – but is it worth it?
One of the most difficult to adapt Mecha series, Muv-Luv Alternative anime started off with a questionable season, but you should still check it out.
A remake of another Tatsunoko hero. The Space Knight returns with a completely new story, design and brings us on an emotional journey of a tragic hero.
The continuation of the hot-blooded saga, this time filled with emotional drama and even more badass action. A great video game adaptation but not without flaws.
The long awaited legend’s return that satisfy all mecha fan’s longing for a good game. Armored Core 6: Fires of Rubicon is an experience you have to play to believe.
Universes collide as the cast of Gridman and Dynazenon is caught in a dimensional anomaly. But what’s more troubled is Yuuta – who has to become Gridman again with a troubled heart.
When you talk about the most badass mecha, you have to mention SRW OG and Masami Obari. And when these two combine, you get the best SRW anime of all time.
A unique series where the true pacifism versus justice. A bold premise and interesting gimmick make Planet With a very selective series in terms of audience – but it definitely deserves a chance.
From the studio that created Buddy Complex and Valvrave, Cross Ange is another Sunrise’s original that challenges the limit of its audience once more .
What will you do if you’re teleported to a time with giant grotesque monsters? For teenage student Daisuke Doujima, it’s a perfect chance for him to become a hero, and a saviour. But can he?
After 2 lukewarm series, Gundam Build rose to form again with Re:Rise. A story with deep characterization for a diverse and likeable cast and awesome Obari action.
Time to go digital! Build series is going full SAO and virtual with Build Divers – a light-hearted series and fun to enjoy without the need to complicate things.
Following GBF, Sunrise wanted to capture the magic with TRY. However, they fell just short of greatness but still create a series with amazing Gunpla battles.
A hobby turned combat sport. Sunrise’s effort to attract new fans turned into a compelling series with gorgeous battles featuring iconic MS from the franchise.
The first animated Build series, Beginning G opened up new venues and excitement for the hobby, with light-hearted yet intense traditional MS battle.
Do you want a Gundam series with a brighter tone but still has banger battles? Then Metal Armor Dragonar is a perfect series for you!
A series about building regular model kit, and using them to find inspiration in life. A very uplifting and chill series for mecha fans to change their perspective on their hobby.
The sequel to SEED – a series that brought Gundam on top of the radar. Destiny is a sequel that earned both the intense love and hate within the fandoms.
An anime adaptation of a sci-fi novel with the same name, Yakitori really stir up the scene with its unusual storytelling and animation style. However, the characters really hold the series up.
A Fafner novel written by Tow Ubutaka – the person who understand Fafner the most. Explore Kazuki’s POV and his relationship in a way you’ve never seen before.
A new Gundam for a new era. Gundam Seed is one of the most popular modern Gundam series that has fans all around the world. And it also received much love from Sunrise as well.
A love letter to commemorate the pioneer of the Mecha genre, Mazinger Z Infinity remind us of the conviction and justice that the Iron Castle had, is, and will stand for.
A badass and action-packed super robot series with an age-gap marriage between the two main characters. A hearth-throbbing and passionate tale about love and perseverance.
A new story of the boy who awoken a machine. Casshern Sins follow a conflicting young man in a world where life seems meaningless, yet everyone yearn for it anyway.
Just when things have calmed down, the Gear Users once again face an apocalyptic threat from a mysterious high order. This put Hibiki and her friends at risk once more.
New threats emerged to threaten the world. But new allies also appear to bring the Gear’s songs to a new level. A new battle await the girls!
Mahou Shoujo x Tokusatsu combined with plenty of mecha references, Symphogear bring us an audio and visual experience that is just the beginning. of a great franchise.
A new nation, a new story, a new battlefield. The reborn Eighty Six must choose between a life of peace or death. Will the Reaper be able to move on?
The depressing, gripping yet hopeful world of Eighty Six brought to life with A-1’s adaptation. The vision of Asato receives a depiction so emotional like no others.
A fun dogfight experience with some mecha combat thrown into the mix, Strike Suit Zero scratches some of that Macross action game that PC gamer has been wanting.
With his life completely smashed apart and turned upside down, teenage boy Ayato had to navigate a new world while being the key to control the winged giant RahXephon.
Not just your usual 70s Super Robot, Zambot 3 is more than just a battle between good and evil, but also about endurance, perseverance and the unyielding heart to do what’s right.
Expanding upon the original work of Yokoyama-sensei, GR: The Day The Earth Stood Still introduces a world where the supernatural and super-technology co-exist. And in the midst of that is a Giant Robo.
If you fancy beautiful girls cladded in sleek power armor fighting cyborg crimes, then Bubblegum Crisis is the choice for you, with amazing 90s cyberpunk dystopia atmosphere!
The Cyber Beast Force may have disbanded, but their burning hearts are still raging. Dancouga combines once again to fight an unexpected enemy. Is it human, or something else much more sinister?
Suit up! It’s time for some Oni hunting! An anime tribute to the Tokusatsu genre, Shikizakura show us the power of hope, willpower and compassion to overcome any darkness.
