In the animated film “Ultraman: Rising” on Netflix, the story kicks off with a crucial moment for the main character, Ken Sato, portrayed by Christopher Sean. Ken faces a dilemma presented by his father, Professor Sato, a mentor figure akin to Uncle Ben. He must choose between pursuing a baseball career or embracing the role of Ultraman, the defender of Earth against monstrous Kaiju. Ken’s uncertainty mirrors the iconic “With great power comes great responsibility” lesson often associated with heroes like Spider-Man.
Director Shannon Tindle’s “Ultraman: Rising” delivers a captivating mix of classic Kaiju battles and a narrative rich in themes like family, identity, and the weight of responsibility. Ken grapples with the conflict between his love for baseball and the immense duty of being Ultraman, echoing the struggles seen in many superhero origin tales. The film delves deeper into questions of identity and legacy, pondering whether heroism is a choice or a predetermined destiny.
The movie excels in constructing its fictional world, showcasing a society under constant threat from Kaiju assaults, prompting the development of advanced defense mechanisms, including Ultraman’s high-tech armor and swift transformation abilities reminiscent of Iron Man. Alongside, Mina, Ultraman’s clever AI companion portrayed by Tamlyn Tomita, adds a touch of humor akin to Tony Stark’s banter with J.A.R.V.I.S. “Ultraman: Rising” introduces a fresh twist with a lovable giant baby Kaiju that Ken must nurture and safeguard, injecting an unexpected element into the storyline.
The early scenes in the movie are a blast to watch. It lays down the groundwork for the story’s world, introduces characters with personalities we can relate to, and sets up the fun dynamic between Ken and Mina. Things get more interesting when the Kaiju Defense Force (KDF) steps in, appearing as a noble group protecting Tokyo from Kaiju threats. However, the arrival of Dr. Onda, played by Keone Young, and his hidden motives cast doubt on the KDF’s true intentions, adding a layer of mystery and raising the tension.
Although the final showdown between Ultraman and Dr. Onda feels a bit rushed, it doesn’t take away from the overall enjoyment of the film. The animation is top-notch throughout, especially during the action scenes. The Kaiju designs are both breathtaking and destructive, and the battles highlight Ultraman’s impressive powers with stunning special effects.
In the end, Ultraman: Rising hits the mark. The blend of humor, the central conflict, and the adorable baby Kaiju make it a superhero journey with a fresh twist.
Ultraman: Rising
Director: Shannon Tindle
Genre: Animation
Platform: Netflix
Language: English
Rating: 3/5
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