Everyone has seen the special effects TV series "Ultraman," featuring giant, transforming heroes. Their power and coolness continue to inspire children and special effects fans. This time, we'll introduce the anime "ULTRAMAN," which has garnered attention for its life-sized heroes.
What's the difference between ULTRAMAN and Ultraman?
"ULTRAMAN" is a manga series that began serialization in the monthly magazine Heroes in December 2011. As of June 2019, the series has sold over 3 million copies, demonstrating its immense popularity. In 2019, a full 3DCG anime version was released on Netflix, garnering attention for its simultaneous worldwide release.
Where is the anime "ULTRAMAN" set?
"ULTRAMAN" is set in a world connected to the original "Ultraman," which aired on television in 1966. Forty years have passed since the original Ultraman returned home after completing his role in protecting Earth. A mysterious enemy suddenly appears in a world once peaceful and free of alien incursions. The protagonist is Shinjiro Hayata, the son of Shin Hayata, who once fought as the original Ultraman. Shinjiro inherited his father's talents and was born with special powers. When attacked by an enemy, high school student Shinjiro discovers the secret behind his and his father's powers and throws himself into battle.
Who is Rena Sayama, the original heroine of this work?
Rena Sayama (voiced by Sumire Morohoshi) is the only female main character in "ULTRAMAN." A popular idol, she is an avid fan of the new Ultraman (who is actually Shinjiro), so much so that she even writes a song about him. She gets caught up in a battle with a monster during a live performance, and gradually begins to interact with Shinjiro. Rena, the only main female character, is a soothing character in the series. A figurine was released in November 2019.
What is the appeal of the anime "ULTRAMAN"?
The appeal of the anime version of "ULTRAMAN" is undoubtedly its 3DCG animation, which utilizes motion capture. The anime version is directed by a collaboration between Kenji Kamiyama, famous for "Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex," and Shinji Aramaki, who worked on the 3DCG anime "Appleseed." The collaboration between these two renowned anime directors is truly impressive. The action scenes, which strive for realism, are incredibly powerful, as if real people were moving about.
Highlights of 3DCG: "Not Just Anime"
"We're creating this in the most exciting and creative way possible with 3DCG," director Shinji Aramaki said in an interview. He praises modern 3DCG animation, saying it often approaches "hand-drawn animation," and that 3DCG has become a substitute for hand-drawn animation. By incorporating motion capture into 3DCG, the characters move with a lifelike, realistic quality that's a highlight of this work.
"ULTRAMAN" is a must-see for fans of the series and newcomers alike.
This time, we've introduced "ULTRAMAN," an anime created with the latest technology, making full use of 3DCG and motion capture. It's a powerful experience that's sure to blow the minds of both series fans and first-time viewers. Currently available worldwide on Netflix, it will air on TOKYO MX and BS11 starting in April 2020. Be sure to check it out.
