"What if true strength came not from power, but from the burden of being flawless?" Kamen Rider Kabuto presents a stylish yet polarizing entry in the franchise, combining sleek aesthetics with a narrative that grapples with destiny, arrogance, and the fragile line between humanity and superiority.
At its core, the series follows Souji Tendou, a Rider whose unwavering confidence and pursuit of perfection make him both captivating and divisive. Unlike the self-doubting heroes of previous seasons, Tendou's almost untouchable demeanor turns the narrative into a study of pride and responsibility. His journey is less about growth and more about how others interpret or react to his ideals, creating a different kind of tension than traditional tokusatsu storytelling.
Thematically, Kabuto explores questions of identity and belonging through the Worms-creatures that mimic human form. Their existence parallels the Riders' own struggles with purpose, blurring the line between predator and protector. The introduction of secondary Riders like Kagami adds emotional balance, offering viewers a more grounded perspective on what it means to be a hero in the shadow of Tendou's perfection.
Visually, the series excels with the iconic "Cast Off" armor system and the high-speed "Clock Up" sequences, which remain among the franchise's most memorable action innovations. Yet, uneven pacing and underdeveloped subplots weaken the overall impact, leaving some arcs feeling incomplete.
Rating: 7/10 - Stylish, ambitious, and thematically rich, though its execution wavers under the weight of its own perfectionism.
