Time Bokan 2000: Kaitou Kiramekiman [Season 1 Episodes 1-52]

Title: Time Bokan 2000: Kaitou Kiramekiman – A Retro Heist Comedy That Shines Bright

If you’re scrolling through your anime queue looking for something that feels like a throwback to the early 2000s but still packs a punch, Time Bokan 2000: Kaitou Kiramekiman might just be your next obsession. A hidden gem from Tatsunoko Production—yes, the same studio behind classics like Speed Racer and Gatchaman—this 52-episode series aired from April to October 2000, blending heists, time travel, and slapstick humor into a chaotic, colorful adventure that’s equal parts silly and surprisingly clever.

Let’s start with the basics: Kiramekiman isn’t your typical “good guy.” He’s a phantom thief with a flair for the dramatic, zipping through time to steal priceless treasures—think Lupin III meets a neon-lit time machine. But here’s the twist: his heists aren’t just about loot. Each episode ties his targets to historical events or cultural artifacts, turning what could be mindless theft into a crash course in fun facts (with a side of explosions, of course). One minute he’s swiping a samurai’s sword in feudal Japan, the next he’s outrunning robots in a futuristic city—all while cracking jokes that land more often than not.

What really makes this show pop is its retro charm. The animation is straight out of 2000: bold lines, vibrant colors, and character designs that feel like they jumped off a Saturday morning cartoon screen. Fans on forums rave about how it “doesn’t try to be anything it’s not”—no convoluted lore, no dark twists, just pure, unadulterated fun. And let’s talk about the villains: the Doronbo Gang, a trio of bumbling bad guys who are more incompetent than menacing. Their schemes always backfire in the most over-the-top ways, and their banter with Kiramekiman is comedy gold. One user on MyAnimeList put it best: “The Doronbo Gang is the reason I keep coming back—their failures are iconic.”

But don’t let the humor fool you; there’s heart here too. Kiramekiman’s backstory, slowly revealed over the series, adds depth to his carefree persona. He’s not just a thief—he’s a guy with a past, and his heists are as much about redemption as they are about thrills. The episodic format keeps things fresh, with each treasure hunt introducing new settings and quirky side characters (shoutout to the talking parrot sidekick who’s low-key the real star).

Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: is this show for everyone? Probably not. If you’re into hyper-realistic animation or complex plotlines, you might roll your eyes at the slapstick. But if you’re a fan of classic anime tropes—think Sailor Moon energy mixed with Dragon Ball’s fight scenes—you’ll be hooked. It’s the kind of show you put on when you want to unwind, laugh out loud, and forget about the world for 25 minutes.

Critics (and there aren’t many, since it’s underrated) often praise its pacing. At 52 episodes, it never drags—each installment is tight, with a clear beginning, middle, and end. The time travel elements are used just enough to keep things interesting without getting confusing, and the writers smartly avoid overexplaining the mechanics (thank goodness). As one reviewer noted: “It’s time travel done right—no paradoxes, just excuses to visit cool places.”

Let’s not forget the music! The opening theme is a catchy J-pop bop that’ll get stuck in your head for days, and the background tracks perfectly match the show’s tone—upbeat, chaotic, and always on-brand. Even the sound effects feel nostalgic, like they were lifted from a 90s arcade game.

So, who should watch Time Bokan 2000: Kaitou Kiramekiman? If you’re a 2000s kid craving nostalgia, a heist fan looking for something light, or just someone who loves anime that doesn’t take itself seriously, this is for you. It’s not a masterpiece, but it’s a blast—a reminder that sometimes the best shows are the ones that just want to make you smile.

In a world of dark, edgy anime, Kiramekiman is a breath of fresh air. It’s silly, it’s stylish, and it’s unapologetically fun. So grab your popcorn, turn off your brain, and let this phantom thief take you on a time-traveling adventure you won’t forget. As one fan summed it up: “It’s not the best anime ever made, but it’s the best anime for when you need a pick-me-up.”

Trust me—you won’t regret hitting play. Just don’t be surprised if you find yourself quoting the Doronbo Gang’s catchphrases by the end of the first episode.

Final Verdict: 7/10. A retro romp that’s equal parts chaotic and charming—perfect for anyone who loves heists, humor, and a little bit of time-travel chaos.

P.S. Keep an eye out for the episode where Kiramekiman steals a pizza from a Roman emperor. It’s chef’s kiss.