The Case Against Remaking Kamen Rider Decade

The idea of remaking Kamen Rider Decade is a concept that only serves to highlight the myriad issues that plagued the original series. Decade, a show that was released in the early 2010s, was a critical and commercial fiasco. Despite its potential, the series failed to capture the attention and enthusiasm that the Kamen Rider franchise so often garners. Its shortcomings were numerous and persistent, and the possibilities for a successful remake seem bleak.

The Original Series: A Perfect Storm of Failures

Decade was conceived as a crossover venture, a grand spectacle that was meant to consolidate the Kamen Rider series under a single banner. However, it quickly became apparent that the show was riddled with issues that extended far beyond mere plot contrivances. The primary challenge was the assembly of a reunited team of heroes from varying series, which was both an ambitious and misguided endeavor. The blending of characters from different narratives resulted in a disorienting and chaotic experience for viewers.

Moreover, the casting choices for the original series were problematic. The return of actors like Tadanobu Asano and Yuki Kaji raised hopes, but it was clear that the chemistry and the past dynamic had not been fully re-established. Additionally, newcomers like Taku Kishimoto had to step into roles designed for actors with a more established canon. While their performances were commendable, the reality of the situation was that the composition of the cast stressed the series rather than enhanced it.

Post-Decade Crossovers and Their Impact

The landscape of crossover content in the Kamen Rider universe has only grown more tumultuous in the years following Decade. Shows like Ryukishi07's "Cross Ride" and "V7" have been pilloried for the same issues that Decade faced: a lack of cohesiveness, shoddily executed storylines, and an overwhelming sense of irreverence. These series often prioritize spectacle over substance, and their failure to maintain the quality and appeal of the source material is a damning indictment of the genre.

Given this context, the notion of remaking Decade becomes even more problematic. The climate of post-Decade crossovers has only served to dilute the appeal of these adventures. Any attempt to relaunch Decade would be faced with the same challenges, amplified by the existing backlash against the show. The inherent difficulties in recreating a series that was so plagued by its original incarnation would be compounded by the need to navigate a landscape riddled with similar fiascos.

The Audience's Memory and Excuses

There is a tendency to argue that older audiences, particularly those who preferred the original Kamen Rider series, are the ones who refuse to give Decade a fair chance. However, the truth is that the show's failures were too numerous and egregious to be simply dismissed. Viewers who dislike the show often cite reasons such as poor character development, weak plot lines, and an overall sense of incoherence. These are not minor criticisms but fundamental flaws that detract from the entertainment value of the series.

Another argument that gets raised is the idea that quality will inevitably improve with time. While it is true that the production values of Kamen Rider have generally improved over the years, and that audiences can be forgiving of a fresh take, the specific nature of Decade's failings makes it difficult to rally support for a remake. The series floundered not just in its execution but in its very conception, and any attempt to revitalize it would be swimming against the tide of critical and audience opinion.

The Role of Fan Sentiment and Nostalgia

The emotional attachment that fans can have to these franchises must also be considered. While it makes sense to entertain the idea of reviving beloved properties, the case of Kamen Rider Decade is more complicated. The series is often cited as an example of what not to do in a crossover; its legacy has become a cautionary tale. Even if the premise of a new version could be improved, there is a risk that the very name "Decade" could come to be associated with failure among a significant portion of the Kamen Rider fanbase.

Furthermore, employing the original actors, who have likely moved on to other roles or projects in the years since Decade's release, would be logistically challenging. The chemistry and synergy between actors are crucial to a cohesive storyline, and re-creating those dynamics would be next to impossible without a substantial commitment of time and resources.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the idea of remaking Kamen Rider Decade is fraught with difficulties and challenges. The original series suffered from a myriad of issues, and the current state of the crossover landscape in the Kamen Rider universe does little to inspire confidence in a successful remake. The very idea of reviving a series that was so heavily criticized would be a daunting proposition, one that would likely result in more disappointment than joy for fans.

Instead of pursuing a remake, it would be more productive to explore other avenues for expanding the Kamen Rider universe. A fresh take on a different story or a new series that builds on the past without replicating the mistakes of Decade would be a more promising approach. With the right direction, the Kamen Rider franchise can continue to captivate new and existing audiences without harboring the shadow of a discredited crossover.