While the Japanese have adopted a view of heroism that explores the idea that one must "become" the hero, here in the states, we seem to like our heroes most when they are "always" heroes. Ultraman is one of the first in the henshin hero genre, and with the development of Kamen Rider and Super Sentai, that form of tokusatsu has flourished and spread all over the world. Likewise, America has its own first hero, the original "super-man" – Superman.
Say what you will about this show, it has survived for 10 seasons. This is a feat worth recognizing. But more importantly, and relevant to this post, Smallville is one of the the most successful tokusatsu productions to come from within the States. I am of the mind that by now, Supes should be flying and saving people in his red and blue tights and NOT a sad Neo knock-off trench coat, but all that aside, the series has been very good at introducing the mainstream to DC characters, comic archetypes, and the nuances of comicdom.
A REAL Justice Society/League anyone…?
I am of the same mind, but I am still looking forward to the Justice Society episode.
Really, only these gimmick episodes this season have gotten me watching those specific episodes. I fell off around season 4 or 5 or whenever Jonathon Kent died. He should be Superman by now, but throwing in Wonder Twins and the Justice Society does pique my interest.
But if we're talking about successful American toku productions, Star Trek still wins out.
Well, I was getting there, but I think you would be a better candidate to handle that Niko. Thanks for volunteering to write next weeks Toku Tuesday 🙂 !
Wait, what? Did something just happen?