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Join MJ for a discussion of Ultraman Rising. What do you think about it?
Read my Ultraman-Inspired Story for kids
Blogified Transcript
Ultraman Rising: A Heartfelt Exploration of Family and Heroism
On this Ultraman Day, July 10th, 2024, I want to dive deep into Ultraman Rising, a film that has captivated both myself and my family. When I say we were “stuck” watching it for two hours, I mean it in the best possible way – we were completely engrossed, unwilling to look away from the evolving story.
At its core, Ultraman Rising is a movie about family. It opens with a domestic scene suddenly interrupted by a kaiju attack, introducing us to Ken Sato and his parents. This focus on family relationships permeates the entire film, from Ken’s journey to reconcile with his father to the touching moments between other characters like Mia and her daughter.
The film’s emphasis on family isn’t just in its plot – it’s woven into the very fabric of its themes. Ken’s father says, “Your mother taught me what it means to be human,” a line that resonates deeply with the movie’s exploration of humanity and heroism. The story delves into how our connections with others, especially family, shape who we are and who we can become.
This family-centric approach brilliantly grounds the fantastical elements of Ultraman. It provides an emotional anchor for audiences, connecting us to the otherwise foreign concepts of giant monsters and super-powered heroes. We understand Ken’s journey because we see it through the lens of his relationships – with his parents, with the baby kaiju, and with his teammates.
The movie also touches on the idea that becoming a parent (or a parent figure) can elevate us, pushing us to be better versions of ourselves. Ken’s relationship with the baby kaiju forces him to grow, to become more responsible, and ultimately to embrace his role as Ultraman. This mirrors the real-life experience of parenthood, where the needs of our children often drive us to surpass our own limitations.
Ultraman Rising is densely packed with ideas and emotions, yet it never feels overwhelming. It balances its themes of family, legacy, and personal growth with exciting action and a deep respect for Ultraman lore. The more I watch it, the more layers I uncover, from its clever world-building to its nuanced character development.
As a longtime Ultraman fan, I’m thrilled to see the franchise take this direction. Ultraman Rising feels like the start of something big for Tsuburaya Productions. It’s a film that not only entertains but also resonates on a deeper level, inviting multiple viewings and discussions.
If you haven’t watched Ultraman Rising yet, I highly recommend it. And if you have, watch it again – you might be surprised by what you discover on a second (or third, or fourth) viewing. It’s a beautiful, important addition to the Ultraman canon, one that reminds us why these stories of heroism and humanity continue to captivate us across generations.
MJ Muñoz 