Fuuto Tantei – Kamen Rider Skull no Shouzou

Title: Fuuto Tantei Movie: Kamen Rider Skull no Shouzou – A Nostalgic Dive into W’s Origins

If you’re a Kamen Rider fan, especially of the W era, then Fuuto Tantei Movie: Kamen Rider Skull no Shouzou is a must-watch. This film serves as both a prequel and an expansion to the Fuuto Tantei TV series, diving deep into the backstory of Shotaro Hidari and his mentor, Soukichi Narumi—better known as Kamen Rider Skull. The movie explores the origins of Gaia Memories, the driving force behind W’s battles, and the emotional weight of Shotaro’s journey.

The Plot: A Detective’s Tale

The film begins with Tokime asking Shotaro the burning questions: “How were Gaia Memories created?” and “Why did W begin to fight?” In response, Shotaro recounts his past, revealing his first encounters with Narumi and their shared battles against Dopants. The narrative seamlessly blends action, mystery, and emotional depth, making it a compelling watch even for those unfamiliar with the Kamen Rider universe.

One of the standout elements is the portrayal of Narumi, whose character arc is both tragic and heroic. Fans on MyAnimeList praised his role, with one user noting, “Narumi-san, or Kamen Rider Skull, was a pretty cool guy and took time to accept our MC, but his demise felt very forced. What could’ve been…” This sentiment echoes the bittersweet tone of the film, which balances nostalgia with fresh revelations.

Animation and Action: A Visual Treat

The animation quality is top-notch, staying true to the Kamen Rider aesthetic while adding cinematic flair. The fight choreography, especially the CycloneSkull and FangJoker forms, received high praise. A fan gushed, “FangJoker is and always will be the coolest form of Kamen Rider W.” The film doesn’t skimp on action, delivering dynamic battles that pay homage to the original series while introducing new twists.

Soundtrack and Atmosphere

The soundtrack is another highlight, blending classic Kamen Rider themes with new compositions that enhance the emotional beats. One viewer described it as “a present to all the Kamen Rider fans, but also a blessing for anime-only watchers.” The music complements the film’s darker tone, especially during pivotal moments like Narumi’s final scenes.

Fan Reactions: A Mixed Bag of Emotions

The movie has sparked lively discussions among fans. Some lamented its limited release, with one asking, “Has anyone seen this yet, or is it one of those movies that will only ever air in a few cinemas in Japan?” Others who managed to catch it praised its pacing, though a few felt it could have been longer. “It could’ve been more fleshed out had it been for more than an hour and a half,” noted a viewer.

Despite minor criticisms, the consensus is overwhelmingly positive. A die-hard fan declared it “a 10/10,” citing its ability to fill in gaps from the TV series and manga. “All the details that weren’t explained in the original were perfectly blended into the movie,” they added.

Final Verdict: A Love Letter to Fans

Fuuto Tantei Movie: Kamen Rider Skull no Shouzou is more than just a side story—it’s a heartfelt tribute to Kamen Rider W’s legacy. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer, the film offers a gripping narrative, stunning visuals, and emotional depth that make it a standout entry in the franchise.

So, if you get the chance to watch it, don’t hesitate. As one fan perfectly put it: “This movie is perfect.” And honestly, they’re not wrong.

Rating: 9.5/10
Recommended for: Kamen Rider enthusiasts, action anime lovers, and anyone who enjoys a good detective story with a superhero twist.

Now, who’s ready for Season 2?