Ultraman (2019)

Ultraman (2019) from Netflix is a thrilling Japanese animation (anime) series that brings back to life the heroic legacy of the beloved live-action series from the 1960s. Directed by Kenji Kamiyama and Shinji Aramaki, this reimagination is enhanced with contemporary state-of-the-art CGI visuals that give the series a fresh and enthralling aesthetic appeal. A joint venture between Production I.G and Sola Digital Arts, Ultraman boasts an intricate plot and multi-layered characters, appealing to both new and long-standing fans of the franchise.

The series begins several years after the end of the original live-action Ultraman television series. Shin Hayata, the human host of Ultraman from the original series, has lost his memories of his time fighting giant monsters known as Kaiju and protecting the Earth. He has retired from the Science Special Search Party (SSSP), and now lives peacefully with his family. However, strange occurrences hint that the peace may not last.

Shin’s son, Shinjiro Hayata, is the main protagonist of the series. As he grows, Shinjiro becomes aware of his superhuman strength and speed – abilities far beyond those of a normal human being. He later learns of his father’s forgotten heroic past and the existence of the Ultraman entity that resides within him. Following in his father’s footsteps, he dons a metal suit built by the SSSP to become the new Ultraman and take on the daunting task of defending Earth.

The Ultraman suit is a significant facet of the series. Unlike the original Ultraman, who was a giant guardian, Shinjiro isn't big. Instead, he wears the suit, which grants him superhuman capabilities. It’s intriguing to see how the suit can amplify his inherent abilities, making him an extremely formidable adversary for the Kaiju monsters. Ultraman (2019) introduces more than just one Ultraman, expanding the realm with additional armored heroes, each with their unique abilities and personal story arcs woven into the narrative.

The show delves into classic themes – responsibility, self-identity, and coming to terms with one’s destiny. Shinjiro’s journey to becoming Ultraman is a highlight of the series, as he struggles with accepting his role as the defender of earth while dealing with typical teenage issues and relationships. The original Ultraman series stood out for its smooth blend of action, drama, and humor, and the 2019 reinterpretation ensures to stay faithful to this aspect, keeping fans engaged with the characters on an intellectual and emotional level.

Ultraman (2019) also shines in its portrayal of villains. The Kaiju are presented as more than just one-dimensional monsters wreaking havoc. They carry their own motivations and backstories, adding depth to the narrative and offering a more nuanced perspective on the concept of good versus evil.

Yet, where Ultraman truly shines is in the action. The high-stakes battles between Ultraman and the Kaiju are beautifully animated, offering intense and visually gratifying showdowns. The vigorous fight sequences are not only visually appealing but are also instrumental in pushing the plot forward, revealing character motivations, and heightening emotional stakes.

Ultraman (2019) can be captivating for those who are new to the world of Ultraman, offering an intriguing premise of heroes in power armor suits battling alien invaders. For long-term fans, it brings a sense of nostalgia while serving up new elements to keep the narrative modern and interesting. With a compelling narrative, an array of well-crafted characters, and jaw-dropping action sequences all backed by truly impressive animation, Ultraman (2019) establishes itself as a worthy successor to the iconic Japanese pop-culture phenomenon.

In conclusion, Ultraman (2019) offers an inventive and engaging experience that seamlessly combines elements of the past series with a modern twist, taking viewers on a thrilling ride. Whether one is on the lookout for intense action, compelling character development, or a nostalgic reminder of the Ultraman legacy, this show caters to a wide array of preferences, making it a must-watch for all fans of the genre.