Friday, June 19, 2009

Johnny Sokko and his Flying Robot

Oh, man, did this bring back memories. Here in Philadelphia, channel PHL 17 used to show Japanese imports in teh afternoon: Astroboy, Ultraman, Marine Boy, and my personal fave, Johnny Sokko and his Flying Robot. It's just like I remember it...for the most part.

For starters, flying seems like the least impressive of the robot's abilities. Why not "Johnny Sokko and his Giant Robot WITH A FREAKIN' FLAMETHROWER!!!"? But maybe that's just my personal preference.

The bad guys are evil Nazi Che impersonators. How funny is that?

Anybody else get the total skeevies about the relationship between Johnny and Jerry Mano, agent of UNICORN? I mean, here's this ten year old kid, traveling alone, and he totally gets picked up by a random stranger. "It seems so quiet...but the quiet seas are dangerous these days." Sheesh! Boy, Johnny could sure use a lesson in Stranger Danger.

Favorite line (as the giant monster is attacking the ship with Johnny and Jerry aboard): "That must be the monster that's been sinking the ships!" No? Really?

Anyhow, it's nice that a fondly remembered classic like this is available on DVD. For a bargain price, no less!


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