Japan's iconic tokusatsu hero, Ultraman, continues to command immense popularity across its many series. Not only are new installments consistently released, but this year also marks the franchise's 60th anniversary, with a slew of celebratory events already underway.
Tsuburaya Productions officially announced on April 20th that the documentary film "THE ORIGIN OF ULTRAMAN" is set to hit theaters on July 3rd! This ambitious project, spearheaded by acclaimed director Hirokazu Kore-eda, brings together top creators from film, tokusatsu, design, and other fields. They'll delve into the charm and true essence of "What exactly is Ultraman?" from a multitude of perspectives.
The documentary is planned by director Hirokazu Kore-eda, known for works like "Air Doll," "Shoplifters," and "Monster." He's assembled an all-star lineup of domestic and international creators, including Guillermo del Toro ("Pacific Rim"), Hideo Kojima ("Metal Gear Solid," "Death Stranding"), Hideaki Anno ("Neon Genesis Evangelion," "Shin Godzilla," "Shin Ultraman"), and Shinji Higuchi ("Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX," "Shin Godzilla," "Shin Ultraman"). Each will offer their unique insights into the fundamental nature of this classic IP.
The official key visual for the film has also been unveiled, featuring Ultraman looking directly at the camera – a powerful visual echo of the film's central question: "What exactly is Ultraman?"
Adding to the excitement, original "Ultraman" cast members – Susumu Kurobe (who played Shin Hayata), Hiroko Sakurai (Akiko Fuji), and Sandayū Dakatsugu (Daisuke Arashi) – will also participate, sharing behind-the-scenes stories from the original production.
Beyond creator interviews, the film will also explore the creativity and dedication of Eiji Tsuburaya and the original production team, giving audiences a deeper understanding of how "Ultraman" rose to global prominence and became a timeless, cross-generational classic.
■ Featured Creators (Partial List)
Guillermo del Toro ("Pacific Rim")
Hirokazu Kore-eda ("Shoplifters," "Monster")
Hideo Kojima (Game director, "Metal Gear Solid," "Death Stranding")
Hideaki Anno ("Neon Genesis Evangelion," "Shin Godzilla," "Shin Ultraman")
Shinji Higuchi ("Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX," "Shin Godzilla," "Shin Ultraman")
Nicolas Winding Refn ("Pusher," "Drive")
Shannon Tindle ("ULTRAMAN: Rising")
John Aoshima ("ULTRAMAN: Rising")
And various film critics, scholars, and original cast members, including:
Susumu Kurobe (Shin Hayata)
Hiroko Sakurai (Akiko Fuji)
Sandayū Dakatsugu (Daisuke Arashi)
The documentary "THE ORIGIN OF ULTRAMAN" isn't just a nostalgic trip for fans; it's a deep dive into the cultural, creative, and industrial layers of the franchise. It promises to resonate deeply with long-time enthusiasts and offer new audiences a clear understanding of why this IP has remained so enduring.
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