Summary: Manga artist Shotaro Ishinomori's reworking of "Pinocchio" was made into a live-action series in 1972; this later anime version (2000) is done in a retro style that reflects the influence of Osamu Tezuka and some American cartoons. Professor Komyoji is killed in his lab while creating Jiro, a super-android who looks like a human--until he morphs into his battle form. What sets Jiro apart is the "Gemini Circuit" that gives him a conscience. Jiro meets Komyoji's daughter Mitsuko and son Masaru, who initially welcome him. But when Mitsuko checks her father's data, she learns that the Gemini Circuit is flawed: if it cannot be repaired, Jiro must be destroyed. Jiro flees, but finds himself battling the insect-like mecha sent by the evil Dr. Gill. The basic story is familiar, but it's presented with more feeling than most mecha tales.
Date Aired
Kikaider Episode Guide List
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23 September 1972
Season 1, Episode 11: Gold Wolf Howls in Hell (coming soon)
21 October 1972
Season 1, Episode 15: Golden Bat's Cursed Secret (coming soon)
