Are the Kamen Rider Movies Canon?

In an era of interconnected movie universes, fans often wonder about the canonicity of various films within their respective franchises. One franchise that has sparked debate among enthusiasts is the Kamen Rider series, which boasts a long history of television shows and movies. But what exactly does it mean for a Kamen Rider movie to be canon? Let's dive into the world of Tokusatsu to find out.

For those unfamiliar with the Kamen Rider series, it originated in Japan in the 1970s as a franchise focused on a hero who uses a powerful motorcycle and a variety of gadgets to fight against evil forces. The show's popularity led to numerous sequels, spin-offs, and movies over the years, each featuring unique storylines and characters.

When it comes to the canonicity of Kamen Rider movies, things can get complex due to the franchise's long history and various adaptations. To understand the concept better, let's consider a similar example from the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Fans often debate whether certain Marvel movies are canon or not within the MCU. For instance, the 1998 film 'Blade' starring Wesley Snipes is part of the MCU, but it was produced before the modern reboot.

Similarly, Kamen Rider movies can be considered canon based on their storyline, characters, and connection to the main television series. Some films may serve as direct sequels or spin-offs, while others might provide standalone stories that are not directly connected to the TV shows.

One notable example is the 2001 film 'Kamen Rider Kuuga: God's Final Wars,' which served as a conclusion to the Kamen Rider Kuuga TV series. The movie continued the story of the main character, Yuusuke Godai, and featured many characters from the show. This film can be considered canon due to its direct connection to the television series.

On the other hand, some Kamen Rider movies may not be considered canon if they stray too far from the main storyline or feature alternate timelines. The 2006 film 'Kamen Rider: Dragon Knight' is an example of this, as it was produced for international audiences and has a distinct narrative that deviates from the Japanese series.

In conclusion, determining canonicity in the Kamen Rider franchise requires examining each movie's connection to the main television shows and storylines. While some films may be direct sequels or spin-offs, others might provide standalone stories that are not directly connected to the TV series. As fans of Tokusatsu, it's essential to understand the complexities of canonicity within the Kamen Rider universe.

Are the kamen rider movies canon