Ultraman: The Return of a Legendary Hero
When it comes to iconic Japanese superheroes, few are as legendary as Ultraman. The giant, silver-and-red defender of Earth has been a staple of pop culture since his debut in the 1960s. Fast forward to today, and Ultraman has made a triumphant return in a new anime series that blends nostalgia with cutting-edge animation. In this post, we’ll explore the plot of the new “Ultraman” series, with a special focus on Edo, a character brought to life by the ever-talented D.C. Douglas.
Ultraman
The Plot of Ultraman
The “Ultraman” anime series, available on Netflix, is a direct sequel to the original 1966 series. Gone are the days of giant kaiju battles in rubber suits—this Ultraman is all about sleek, futuristic suits, intergalactic intrigue, and a new generation of heroes.
The story begins decades after the original Ultraman, Shin Hayata, saved Earth from countless alien threats. Now retired, Hayata lives a quiet life, his days as the giant protector long behind him. However, the peace is short-lived. As it turns out, Hayata’s son, Shinjiro Hayata, has inherited more than just his father’s good looks—he’s also inherited his Ultraman Factor, a latent power that makes him the new bearer of the Ultraman mantle.
Shinjiro is thrust into a world of danger when new alien threats emerge, targeting Earth once again. Guided by his father and the mysterious Science Patrol, Shinjiro dons the Ultraman suit—a high-tech exoskeleton that allows him to harness his powers and grow into the role of Earth’s protector. However, Shinjiro soon discovers that being Ultraman is more complicated than just fighting off monsters. He must navigate the murky waters of alien politics, human distrust, and his own insecurities about living up to his father’s legacy.
As the series progresses, Shinjiro encounters a host of allies and enemies, both human and alien. The story deftly balances high-octane action scenes with deeper themes of identity, legacy, and the weight of responsibility. But no discussion of “Ultraman” would be complete without mentioning one of its most intriguing characters—Edo.
Edo: The Mysterious Alien Commander
Edo is an alien of the Star Cluster Council, an intergalactic organization tasked with maintaining peace across the cosmos. But don’t let his squid-like appearance fool you—Edo is as sharp as they come. He serves as a liaison between Earth and the greater galactic community, guiding the new Ultraman in his mission to protect the planet.
Voiced by the versatile D.C. Douglas, Edo is a character that blends authority with an otherworldly charm. Douglas brings Edo to life with a voice that is both commanding and enigmatic, perfectly capturing the character’s dual nature as a diplomat and a strategist. Edo’s role in the series is pivotal, as he provides Shinjiro with crucial information and support, all while keeping his own motives shrouded in mystery.
Edo is more than just a mentor figure; he’s a key player in the unfolding narrative, often pulling strings behind the scenes to ensure that Earth remains protected. But is Edo truly a friend to humanity, or does he have his own agenda? The series plays with this ambiguity, keeping viewers on their toes and adding a layer of complexity to the story.
Meet the Cast and Creators
The “Ultraman” anime boasts an impressive cast and crew, bringing together some of the best talent in the industry. Alongside D.C. Douglas as Edo, the series features:
English Voice Cast
- Shinjiro Hayata / Ultraman: Voiced by Josh Hutcherson
- Dan Moroboshi: Voiced by Liam O’Brien
- Edo: Voiced by D.C. Douglas
- Shin Hayata: Voiced by Fred Tatasciore
- Rena Sayama: Voiced by Cristina Valenzuela
- Bemular: Voiced by Matthew Mercer
The series is directed by Kenji Kamiyama and Shinji Aramaki, two veterans of the anime industry known for their work on titles like “Ghost in the Shell” and “Appleseed.” With such a talented team at the helm, it’s no wonder that “Ultraman” has been met with both critical and fan acclaim.
Why Edo Stands Out
In a series filled with powerful heroes and menacing villains, Edo manages to stand out as one of the most memorable characters. His alien nature and mysterious motives make him a fascinating figure, and D.C. Douglas’ performance adds a layer of depth that keeps viewers intrigued.
Edo’s interactions with Shinjiro are some of the most compelling moments in the series, as the young Ultraman grapples with the weight of his responsibilities and the enigmatic guidance of his alien mentor. Whether he’s offering sage advice or manipulating events from behind the scenes, Edo is a character who leaves a lasting impression.
Conclusion
“Ultraman” is more than just a reimagining of a classic hero—it’s a thrilling, character-driven story that explores the complexities of heroism in a modern world. With stunning animation, a gripping plot, and a cast of unforgettable characters, the series offers something for both longtime fans and newcomers alike.
And at the heart of it all is Edo, a character who embodies the mystery and wonder of the “Ultraman” universe. Thanks to D.C. Douglas’ standout performance, Edo is sure to be a fan-favorite for years to come. So, whether you’re a die-hard Ultraman fan or just looking for your next anime binge, “Ultraman” is a must-watch. Just don’t be surprised if you find yourself wanting to know more about Edo and his secretive agenda!
