In countries around the world (especially in the U.S. and Japan), giant robots have been a tremendously popular and profitable source of entertainment. Whether it be "Ultraman," "Transformers," or "Gundam Wing," the robo-craze shows no sign of slowing down. Of course, with every hit film or show there comes an inferior imitator. Example: Iron King, which is clearly a wannabe "Ultraman."

The story: Gentaro is a singer who also happens to be an agent of the National Security Force. One day, while trying to take down a terrorist organization, he receives help from another National Security member by the name of Goro. As it turns out, Goro is no ordinary agent. He has the ability to transform himself into a giant water powered robot who goes by the name of IRON KING! Throughout the 26 episode series, Gentaro and Goro/Iron King do their best to protect to Japan from threats like the Phantom Militia and the TITANIANS. If the Iron King character looks familiar, that is because he is a direct rip-off of "Ultraman." Everything from the flashing light on the chest to the limited time to fight is lifted from the famous character. In fact, the only reason this show existed at all was to capitalize on "Ultraman's" success. True, the show is not without merit. Watching a man in a rubber red balloon spitting robot bug costume fighting another man in a rubber suit on a miniature set is always worth a laugh. Plus, how can you not laugh at the opening theme song when the singer busts out with lyrics such as "From the bottom of hell come alive again/devils incarnate and poisonous flowers"? Once the novelty wears off, however, you're left viewing a formulaic repetitive program. Along with being formulaic, the show can be so incredibly moronic that you will want to reach for a couple Advil. Goro and Gentaro are meant to be heroes, but they sure don't act or even seem like heroes. For instance, the two often seem unworried about a city (usually Tokyo) being terrorized or destroyed. Sometimes, Goro just kicks back and relaxes while Gentaro plays a tune on his guitar while the villains are on the loose! On top of that, the two never seem to prevent damage from being done. It's amazing Tokyo, or any of the other cities, are still intact after villains like the floppy headed TongaSaurus or Kabutoron have stomped around.

It appears that no work went into restoring the picture as the fullscreen picture quality has scratches, dirt, and jumpy frames galore. The audio doesn't fare much better. The sound f/x are cheap and the dialogue is rough. Basically, the audio sounds like an unfinished mix. The audio is so low quality, in fact, that there isn't even an information label about the audio track! Each of the episodes are in Japanese with English subtitles.

No extras aside from a booklet containing an essay, interviews, cast bios, etc.

"Iron King" is nothing more than an ultra-goofy rip-off off of "Ultraman." Sure, the show can be entertaining, but there are better giant robot films and shows to be found.