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Post by ironnut77 on Apr 27, 2022 7:35:15 GMT -5
I recently returned to my ultimate goal of watching ICJ in chronological order by air date. It would seem this is a lifetime goal for me, as I have been at it off an on for a few years now, but I digress...
I am in March 1997 presently, where 4 battles (Wine, Papaya, Wakame Seaweed, Honey) featured challengers who were previously defeated, looking for a rematch.
I must say that these battles (I have watched the first 3, planning to watch Battle Honey soon) are probably the best examples of the awesomeness we missed with the Food Network run. Each battle is filled with energy, starting off with all the challengers entering Kitchen Stadium at once and the challenger for the particular episode picking one of 4 secret themes. It's these unique departures from the norm that make these un-aired in the USA episodes especially worthwhile for this fan.
My special nod in the title goes to the New Years Eve Special from December 1996, which was VERY unique. I can see why this one wasn't shown in the USA. It really is catered to the Japanese particularly, was aired LIVE, and really dragged out (in a good way) since the battle was 100 unedited minutes long and the tasting probably went for another hour. But the end result (Nakamura's victory) may be one of the most emotionally-charged and fulfilling moments I have seen to date on ICJ.
Anyway, if anyone was able to grab these gems when they were floating around (and they may again, if Tetsujin posts them), I highly encourage a viewing. There is so much of this show that we Americans didn't get to experience. I am beginning to look at ICJ in a whole new light indeed.
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Post by Man Alive! on May 15, 2022 1:35:13 GMT -5
The ICJ specials were so well done. They took an already dramatic show and amped up the theatrics to great effect. The emotional charge of those moments and the sense of ceremony in the proceedings really brought the idea of "Kitchen Stadium" to life. I agree completely that ICA failed to deliver on those types of episodes and lost some of the magic as a result.
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Post by ironchefquack on Jun 14, 2022 6:04:44 GMT -5
Great review ironnut77!! I'd like to do the same, to be honest, it's one of my favorite shows, I have a ton of them from years back on my hard drive I just need to dig out and throw on my iPad to watch.
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