When asked which character from Japan is the most iconic, I personally believe that’s tough to answer. It’s either Gojira or Ultraman. While everyone knows who the former is and why he came to be, a sense of mystery still surrounds The Origin of Ultraman. A quick look online reveals a deceptively simple narrative: he is an alien who came to Earth to protect humanity. And, to be fair, Gamera is niche.
Yet, when debating which of the two franchises is truly recognized as an institution, I would argue it is Ultraman, hands down. Yu Nakamura and Kazuki Yoshida’s excellent documentary not only provides terrific insights from filmmakers, artists and historians around the world about how Tohl Narita shaped the iconic face and costume design, but also reveals what went on in his mind behind all the creature designs he sketched out too. This work also firmly shows why this hero is so beloved from the perspective of many individuals.
Continue reading “The Origin of Ultraman and Celebrating 60 Glorious Years!”