The first trailer for Shin Ultraman is here, showing off the cast, monsters, and the Japanese superhero himself. Ultraman's new cinematic outing is being produced by Neon Genesis Evangelion creator Hideaki Anno. Attack on Titan movie director Shinji Higuchi is directing. The two men directed Shin Godzilla in 2016, delivering an acclaimed new take on the iconic reptile.
Ultraman is one of the world's biggest superheros, both literally and figuratively. The character debuted in 1966, forever influencing Japanese pop culture. In the original show, a man named Hayata is able to transform into Ultraman to combat sinister monsters. Unsurprisingly, Ultraman received a follow up in the form of Ultraseven. Something that couldn't have been predicted was just how massive the Ultraman brand would become. Since 1966, there have been over 25 Ultraman shows, over 20 movies, and countless merchandise. Considerable time can be spent discussing all the causes of Ultraman's longevity, but it really comes down to how much heart is put into the various incarnations. Shin Ultraman is going back to the character's roots as an adaption of the original program. The release date was revealed back in November of 2020, along with a good look at the hero's appearance.
Tsuburaya Productions has debuted the teaser for Shin Ultraman. The footage shows off the characters, but probably bigger is the reveal of two classic monsters. Check out the trailer below, along with the first two posters.
According to Tsuburaya, the first poster has the words, "Have you become so fond of humans, Ultraman?" It features three items: what appears to be a Science Patrol pin, a dog tag, and what looks like the iconic Beta Capsule. In fact, the teaser shows what could be the main character holding the Beta Capsule to transform. Meanwhile, the footage highlights two kaiju from the original show. Neronga is in the film, using his invisibility power. Gabora also appears with his sharp plates around his head. Ultraman is revealed at the end, looking as he did in the original program minus the Color Timer.
The teaser and poster seem to confirm the Science Patrol will be a focus, although it doesn't look like they will be wearing their iconic orange suits. For longtime fans, it is a treat seeing the classic monsters utilized. Neronga and Gabora appear very similar to how they did back then, but for the first time rendered in CGI. The big question is how many monsters will appear, and if the film will end with Ultraman fighting Zetton like in the final episode of the show. No matter what, it appears the Shin Godzilla team is doing a good job revamping another iconic franchise. Shin Ultraman hits Japanese theaters this summer. Hopefully an announcement regarding a worldwide release will be revealed in the near future. For more Ultraman in the meantime, fans can check out the superhero in the comics.
Source: Tsuburaya Productions