Japanese Spiderman
Japanese Spiderman

TV Show spotlight

Japanese Spiderman

1979
TV Show
Ended
2 Seasons
Japanese

Follow the exploits of motorcycle racer turned super hero Takuya Yamashiro, as he slings and swings, battling the evil Iron Cross Army along the way.

Insights

IMDb7.2/10
Director: Kōyū YagiGenres: Action, Sci-Fi, Superhero, Tokusatsu

Plot Summary

Takuya Yamashiro, a young motorcycle racer, is imbued with alien blood and granted spider-like powers by the alien Emissary from Planet Spider. He gains a powerful bracelet that allows him to transform into Supaidāman, pilot the giant robot Leopardon, and use a spider-themed car called the Spider-Machine G-5. Takuya fights against the evil Professor Monster and his Metal Heterosters, a ruthless organization bent on world domination, all while grappling with his newfound responsibilities as a superhero.

Critical Reception

While not initially released internationally, the 1979 Japanese Spider-Man series, known for its unique tokusatsu style and departure from its Marvel counterpart, has gained a cult following among fans of the genre for its over-the-top action, creative monster designs, and surprisingly dark tone. It's often praised for its distinct identity and the iconic giant robot battles.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its unique tokusatsu visual style and distinctive take on the Spider-Man mythos.

  • Appreciated for its inventive monster designs and the inclusion of the giant robot Leopardon.

  • Noted for its darker, more mature themes and faster-paced action compared to other superhero shows of its era.

Google audience: Audience reception tends to highlight the series' unconventional approach to the Spider-Man character, often citing its energetic action sequences, memorable monster-of-the-week format, and the sheer novelty of a giant robot battling alien foes.

Fun Fact

This Japanese adaptation of Spider-Man features a significantly different origin story and powers compared to the original Marvel Comics character; instead of a radioactive spider bite, Takuya Yamashiro gains his abilities from an alien named Garia from Planet Spider.

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