Origin of Ultraman Jennie Kermode 20420
If you want to grasp the soul of modern Japan, you can’t ignore Ultraman. This iconic figure, often relegated to the realm of children’s television, has done far more than entertain; he has acted as a powerful catalyst, influencing a generation of creative talent both within Japan and across the global cinematic landscape.
This isn’t just a cultural footnote—it’s a monumental story of art, history, and imagination. Recently, this fascination with Ultraman moved to the grand stage, culminating in a special event that brought together some of the world’s most celebrated filmmakers to delve into the mythology behind the hero.
The gathering, which took place at Fantasia 2026, offered a unique opportunity to explore the artistic lineage and profound ideas that led to Ultraman‘s creation and sustained him through an unusually long and vibrant life. It was an invitation to look beyond the animated screen and examine the deep-seated history of art that birthed such a phenomenon.
The quality of the participants alone set the stage for a truly exceptional discussion. The lineup featured titans of cinema engaging with the subject matter in fascinating new ways. The conversation began with Palme d’Or winner Hirokazu Kore-eda, who led the dialogue by interviewing Oscar winner Guillermo Del Toro.
From there, the intellectual journey took a wonderfully diverse turn. Other compelling voices contributed their unique perspectives. We heard from author Pat Cadigan, who explored the moral courage embedded within the series, and from auteur Nicolas Winding Refn, whose artistic vision naturally gravitated toward exploring the thematic depths of the legend. This convergence of masters brought together history, morality, and visual storytelling in a truly unforgettable exploration of what Ultraman means.
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