Toei Executive Shirakura to Bring IPs Including Kamen Rider and Super Sentai Globally

Despite a legacy of non-proliferation of their brands outside of Asia, Toei Company Ltd. have founded a new department, seemingly to spread their intellectual property to the rest of the world.

Toei recently made an announcement about the establishment of a new department called the Character Strategy Department which will be led by Shinichiro Shirakura, a veteran Toei producer known for his involvement in popular series like Kamen Rider Agito, Kamen Rider 555, and Kamen Rider Den-O, as well as various Super Sentai Series including Kikai Sentai Zenkaiger and Avataro Sentai Donbrothers.

The primary objective of this new department is to enhance Toei’s character business and maximise profits. This involves extending the lifespan of intellectual properties (IPs) and venturing into global markets, as outlined in the company’s “TOEI NEW WAVE 2033” plans disclosed earlier this year.

Going forward, the Character Strategy Department will oversee the character business across all divisions and work towards expediting decision-making processes, streamlining operations, and maximising revenue generated from each individual character IP. The department will also devise strategic plans for character business expansion in regions such as Asia, Central and South America, Europe, and the United States, aiming to accelerate global growth.

What could this mean for Overseas fans?

The global expansion of Sentai and Rider has been greatly anticipated by the fandom for a long period of time. Especially if you consider the fact that it gives series such as Lupinranger VS Patoranger and Avataro Sentai Donbrothers the chance to come overseas without having it to be made into a Power Rangers adaptation.

Additionally, a global expansion enables much more.

More Accessible Content

With Toei’s global expansion efforts, fans outside of Japan would find it easier to access their favourite shows. Streaming platforms might license and offer subtitled or dubbed versions of the shows, allowing fans to enjoy them in their preferred language. Moreover, official merchandise related to the franchises could become available internationally, giving fans a chance to own items they previously had difficulty obtaining.

Tailored for International Viewers

Toei might invest in localising their IPs to cater to overseas markets. This could involve translating the shows into different languages, making cultural references more relatable to international audiences, and even creating new storylines or characters that resonate with global fans. By doing so, Toei aims to bridge the gap between the original Japanese content and international viewers, making it easier for them to connect with the franchises.

Growing International Fan Community

As Toei IPs gain popularity outside of Japan, the overseas fan community would likely experience significant growth. Fans from different countries would come together to discuss and celebrate these franchises, forming larger and more active communities online and offline. This would create opportunities for international fans to connect, share their passion and collaborate on various projects.

Official Events and Merchandise

Toei might organise official events perhaps in comic cons in different parts of the world, providing overseas fans with immersive experiences. These events could feature exclusive screenings, opportunities to meet and interact with cast members, panel discussions and merchandise booths. By bringing the magic of Super Sentai and Kamen Rider directly to international fans, Toei seeks to strengthen the bond between the franchises and their global audience.

Toei’s establishment of the Character Strategy Department and their focus on global expansion brings exciting prospects for overseas fans of Super Sentai and Kamen Rider. Increased accessibility to content and merchandise means fans outside of Japan can fully engage with their favorite shows. Localizing IPs for international markets bridges cultural gaps and enhances the viewing experience. As the fan community grows, fans from different countries can connect, collaborate, and celebrate together. Official events and conventions around the world provide immersive experiences and strengthen the bond between Toei and its global audience.

Overall, the global expansion of Toei IPs opens up a thrilling future for overseas fans, offering more opportunities to be part of the Super Sentai and Kamen Rider fandom.

Are you excited by this news? Do you think it could mean more access to Super Sentai and Kamen Rider for the rest of the world? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below.

Source: Toei