6.5 / 10 (based on 107 reviews)
On the day the planets are aligned will trigger the Grand Cross which will resurrect the vile Grandiene. That ill fated day will turn Earth into a realm of darkness for Grandiene’s own likening. Ten years earlier, Doctor Mondo Tatsumi of the Tatsumi Disaster Prevention Institute, was unable to convince everyone about the prophecy. So he left his family and went in isolation so he could secretly develop and construct the Rescue System. Now in 1999, Doctor Tatsumi has succeeded to give the Earth a means of hope called the GoGoFive team.
Genre: Action, Adventure, Comedy, Drama, Fantasy, Sci-Fi, Thriller
Main Cast: Ryûichirô Nishioka, Masashi Taniguchi, Atsushi Harada, Kenji Shibata
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1 season, 50 episodes, 25-minute runtime
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Kyûkyû Sentai GoGoFive, a gem from 1999, often flies under the radar when discussing iconic entries in the Super Sentai series. This Japanese television show is a vibrant blend of action, drama, and family values, wrapped in the colorful spandex of its heroes. Let’s strip away the fluff and get to the core of what makes this series stand out.
The Premise
At its heart, Kyûkyû Sentai GoGoFive is about the Tatsumi siblings, five brothers and sisters who don the mantle of heroes to battle the forces of the sinister Psyma family. These villains, emerging from their otherworldly dimension, have their sights set on Earth, aiming to wreak havoc and destruction. The Tatsumi family, guided by their father, a brilliant scientist, utilize cutting-edge technology and their unique vehicles, the GoLiners, to transform into the GoGoFive team and protect the planet.
The Characters
The Tatsumi Siblings
- Matoi Tatsumi / GoRed: The eldest and the leader, Matoi is the embodiment of responsibility and courage. His leadership keeps the team focused and determined.
- Nagare Tatsumi / GoBlue: The second brother is a water specialist and an analytical thinker, often providing the team with strategies and technical insights.
- Shou Tatsumi / GoGreen: As an air force pilot, Shou brings agility and aerial tactics to the group, often piloting the team’s mecha.
- Daimon Tatsumi / GoYellow: The youngest brother is a paramedic, adding a compassionate and nurturing angle to the team’s dynamic.
- Matsuri Tatsumi / GoPink: The only sister, Matsuri, is a nurse, combining her medical knowledge with her fighting skills to support the team.
The Psyma Family
- Grand Witch Grandiene: The matriarch, orchestrating her children’s attacks on Earth from the shadows.
- Zylpheeza: The eldest son, a formidable warrior with a strong sense of honor, often questioning the morality of their mission.
- Cobolda: The brutish second son, relying on strength and power to crush his opponents.
- Denus: The only daughter, using her cunning and intelligence to battle the GoGoFive.
- Drop: The youngest, a child with a mischievous streak and unpredictable powers.
Why It Stands Out
Family Dynamics
Unlike many other series in the Super Sentai franchise, Kyûkyû Sentai GoGoFive places a significant emphasis on family. The dynamic between the Tatsumi siblings, each with their distinct personalities and roles within the team, adds a layer of depth not often found in similar shows. Their interactions, conflicts, and resolutions provide a relatable and compelling narrative thread throughout the series.
Technological Innovation
The series is set against a backdrop of technological marvels, from the advanced rescue vehicles and equipment used by the GoGoFive to the elaborate mecha and gadgets of the Psyma family. This focus on technology not only serves as a plot device but also reflects the late ’90s zeitgeist, a time when the world was rapidly embracing the digital age.
Themes of Sacrifice and Responsibility
Kyûkyû Sentai GoGoFive explores themes of sacrifice and responsibility in a manner that resonates with its audience. The Tatsumi siblings, despite their personal dreams and aspirations, understand the weight of their duty to protect Earth. This sense of responsibility is mirrored in their opponents, particularly in Zylpheeza, who grapples with his loyalty to his family versus his moral compass.
Memorable Episodes
Certain episodes stand out for their storytelling, character development, or sheer entertainment value. For instance, the episode where the GoGoFive must save a group of children from a Psyma trap, showcasing their heroism and the importance of teamwork. Another notable episode is the confrontation between Matoi and Zylpheeza, where their battle transcends physical conflict, touching on themes of honor and understanding between adversaries.
Legacy
Despite its initial run being over two decades ago, Kyûkyû Sentai GoGoFive has left a lasting impact on the Super Sentai series. Its focus on family, combined with the innovative use of technology and exploration of deeper themes, sets it apart from its contemporaries. It has inspired subsequent entries in the franchise to explore more complex narratives and character dynamics.
Conclusion
Kyûkyû Sentai GoGoFive is more than just a typical entry in the Super Sentai series. It’s a show that combines action, technology, and heart in a unique blend that still resonates with audiences today. The Tatsumi siblings’ journey from individuals to a cohesive team fighting for Earth’s survival is a compelling narrative that offers more than just flashy battles and cool gadgets. It’s a reminder of the power of family, the weight of responsibility, and the complexity of heroism. For fans of the genre or anyone looking for a series with depth and dynamism, Kyûkyû Sentai GoGoFive is a must-watch.