TheUltramanfranchise has always been centered on the relationship between fathers and sons. Netflix’sUltraman: Risingtakes that concept to a new level, however, thrusting Kenji Sato into the role of not just a hero for Tokyo,but a babysitter and father figurefor a baby kaiju in a story all about the importance of family. With the animated film now streaming, Collider can exclusively share a new behind-the-scenes featurette with directorShannon Tindleand other members of the creative team as they explore the concepts that make it so relatable andapproachable for Ultraman newcomers. They also discuss the personal inspirations from their lives that helped define Ken’s journey as a hero and a dad.
In the sneak peek, Tindle says the core concept was to depict Ultraman as a reluctant savior.Ultraman: Risingsees himleave his baseball career behindto return home and become Tokyo’s protector in place of his father. However,he struggles to live up to that standardas he tries to put his ego aside, and his failures ultimately saddle him with the responsibility of taking care of the kaiju child of his greatest foe. Tindle then began weaving his own experiences into the idea when he became a father, something his co-directorJohn Aoshimasaw happening in real-time. Those elements would then come into play during the film’s most intense moments, as Ken fights to raise and protect the infant from forces that have dark intentions for her.
The focus on family to tell a strong, emotional story was good not just for the directors, but also for Tsubaraya Productions, the owner of Ultraman, who hoped to create a widely relatable film. Yet, the company was still surprised to see their hero in a new light as a loving father who tries his best, despite being a bit of a mess. Hearing fans of all backgrounds and ages relate to their experiences with their parents and children, even if they weren’t entirely familiar withthe history of Ultraman, was a point of pride for Tindle andmore confirmation that familial bonds and the struggles of parenthood are universally understood. Reviews largely reflect that as well, asUltraman: Risingcurrently sports a 79% critic score and 94% audience score onRotten Tomatoes, includinga 6/10 from Collider’sChase Hutchinson.
What’s Next for Tsubaraya’s Superhero After ‘Ultraman: Rising’?
The future ofUltramanat Netflix looks bright after strong reviews and solid viewership, landing the filmat #8 on the Netflix Top 10. Ifthe ending is any indication, Ken’s story was never meant to end withRisingand a big family reunion with the Satos could be in store in the future. Tindle’s feature boasted the writing talent of hisKubo and the Two StringscolleagueMarc Haimes, the animation work ofTransformers OnestudioIndustrial Light & Magic, and a cast starringChristopher SeanoppositeGedde Watanabe, Tamlyn Tomita, Keone Young, andJulia Harriman.
Ultraman: Risingis now streaming on Netflix. Check out our exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the film above.
Ultraman: Rising
The legacy of a colossal hero is passed down to his unsuspecting son in a futuristic city besieged by giant monsters. Struggling with his new-found powers and the weight of expectations, the young hero learns to harness his abilities under the guidance of a veteran warrior to defend humanity from impending doom.
