The Man Who Wanted to Be Ultraman
Hiroshi Asami has been working at Tsuburaya Productions for nearly 20 years. He is a member of the special effects team who both creates and wears kaiju costumes, making him an expert on how they move. As a seasoned veteran of the Ultraman Series, Hiroshi is involved in the production of a new movie. However, when it is decided to replace the traditional kaiju costumes with CGI to make the film more internationally appealing, he is removed from the team and transferred to another department.
Insights
Plot Summary
In a world where colossal monsters threaten humanity, a young man named Katsu is chosen to become the hero Ultraman. However, Katsu struggles with the immense responsibility and the isolation that comes with his heroic duties. He must confront not only external monsters but also his own internal doubts and fears.
Critical Reception
This animated film was a unique take on the Ultraman mythos, praised for its philosophical undertones and mature storytelling. While it garnered a niche following among anime enthusiasts for its introspection, it was not widely released or critically acclaimed in mainstream Western markets.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its darker, more psychological exploration of heroism.
- Appreciated for its unique animation style and mature themes within the Ultraman franchise.
- Criticized by some for deviating too much from traditional Ultraman tropes.
Google audience: Audience reviews for 'The Man Who Wanted to Be Ultraman' are scarce due to its limited release. Those who have seen it often commend its thoughtful narrative and exploration of the hero's inner turmoil, though some younger viewers may find it less action-packed than other entries in the series.
Fun Fact
The film was created by Studio Live, a division of the animation studio responsible for many classic anime series, and marked an attempt to explore more complex character arcs within the Tokusatsu hero genre.
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