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Tojima Tanzaburo: The Aspirational Journey of Becoming a Masked Rider
Anime is a realm where dreams take flight, and for Tanzaburo Tojima, it’s about aspiring to become a Kamen Rider—an iconic masked superhero. The anime adaptation of Yokusaru Shibata’s manga, "Tojima Tanzaburo Wants to be a Masked Rider," is making headlines, captivating audiences with its engaging storyline and dynamic characters.
The Exciting Announcement
Aniplex recently revealed that the anime will run for two consecutive cours, with the second part starting on January 10. This announcement has piqued the interest of fans worldwide, eager to see how Tojima’s journey unfolds over the coming months.
A Glimpse into the Anime
Scheduled to air on Tokyo MX, the series officially premiered on October 4, making its mark in late-night anime slots. Each episode is also available for streaming via Crunchyroll under the title "Tojima Wants to Be a Kamen Rider," broadening its reach to international audiences.
Meet the Characters
The anime brings together a stellar voice cast, enhancing the narrative with their unique talents:
- Katsuyuki Konishi as Tanzaburō Tōjima
- Ai Kayano as Yuriko Okada
- Kenichi Suzumura as Ichiyo Shimamura
- Sōma Saitō as Mitsuha Shimamura
- Fairouz Ai as Yukarisu
- Satoshi Tsuruoka as Satoshi Itō
- Fukushi Ochiai as Fukushi Ishige
- Daisuke Sakaguchi as Daisuke Sato
Each character adds depth to the story, making every interaction meaningful and engaging.
Behind the Scenes
The production team comprises talented individuals who bring the story to life. Directed by Takahiro Ikezoe at LIDEN FILMS, the series benefits from a robust script by Tōko Machida. Character designs are crafted by Cindy H. Yamauchi, and the music score is composed by the renowned TeddyLoid.
TeddyLoid also collaborates with Shigeru Matsuzaki and TOPHAMHAT-KYO (FAKE TYPE.) for the opening theme "Wanna be," setting an energetic tone for the series.
The Heart of the Story
At the core of the series is Tanzaburo Tojima’s relentless pursuit of his childhood dream. At 40, when most start giving up on such fantasies, Tojima finds himself embroiled in an unexpected adventure during a "false Shocker" robbery. This twist of fate reignites his passion and sets him on a path filled with challenges and self-discovery.
The Manga’s Journey
Shibata’s manga, which began in 2018 in Monthly Hero’s magazine, now continues on Comiplex’s website. Known for previous works like "Air Master" and "81diver," Shibata has a knack for creating immersive worlds that captivate readers. His earlier series also inspired TV adaptations that resonated with audiences globally.
Continuing Legacy
Shibata’s works, particularly "Air Master," hold a legacy within the anime community. While the early 2000s series was partially released in North America, its streaming on Crunchyroll ensures that new fans can enjoy this classic.
Final Thoughts
Tojima Tanzaburo’s tale isn’t just about the pursuit of being a Kamen Rider; it’s a reflection on never letting go of our dreams, no matter our age. With a rich storyline, complex characters, and an experienced production team, "Tojima Tanzaburo Wants to be a Masked Rider" promises to be an inspiring series for anime fans everywhere.
By following Tojima on his journey, perhaps we can all find a bit of courage to chase after our own masked dreams. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Shibata or new to his work, this anime is set to be a memorable ride.
For more information about anime streaming Crunchyroll remains a go-to source for enthusiasts around the globe.
