“Ultraman: Rising” ascends on Netflix

“Ultraman: Rising” has stormed onto Netflix, bringing a fresh take on the iconic Ultraman franchise that has captivated audiences for decades. This 2024 animated superhero film, a collaboration between Netflix Animation and Tsuburaya Productions, marks the 44th film in the Ultraman franchise, combining vibrant animation from Industrial Light & Magic with a compelling story that has earned critical acclaim.

The movie follows Ken Sato, a professional baseball player torn between his rising sports career in America and his unexpected role as the new Ultraman in Japan, a responsibility passed down from his estranged father, Professor Sato. The film’s plot delves into themes of family, duty, and the challenges of parenthood. As Ken takes on the role of Ultraman to protect Japan from kaiju (monsters), he faces his toughest challenge yet: raising an infant kaiju named Emi, who has imprinted on him as her parent.

Ken’s struggle is more than just a battle against giant monsters; it’s a personal journey of reconciling with his family and, unexpectedly, raising a baby kaiju named Emi. The film’s nuanced take on the complexities of parenthood, particularly through Ken’s interactions with Emi, adds a new dimension of emotional depth rarely explored in the genre. 

Critics have praised “Ultraman: Rising” for its innovative approach to the franchise, blending action with the nuanced dynamics of familial relationships. The movie’s animation has also been a standout, with vibrant visuals that capture the neon-city aesthetics of Japan and the grandeur of Ultraman’s battles against the kaiju. The collaboration between Netflix and Tsuburaya Productions, the original producers of the franchise, has resulted in a film that honors the legacy of Ultraman while pushing the boundaries of what animated superhero films can achieve.

As “Ultraman: Rising” continues to resonate with audiences worldwide, it stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of Ultraman, a hero who has once again risen to the occasion, this time in stunning animated form. 

Overall rating: B+