The Japanese superhero Ultraman has long protected Earth from aliens and monsters. And it continues to hold the same pull over its fandom despite the rise of countless modern superheroes. As one of the earliest and most influential shows by Tsuburaya Productions in Tokusatsu television, it helped bring the concept of giant-sized heroes, known as Kyodai Hero. 

In 2021, Netflix worked with Tsuburaya Productions to revive the silver-suited hero with a CGI animated feature film and more projects. Now, as the franchise is set to complete its 60 years, a new documentary, THE ORIGIN OF ULTRAMAN, focused on the iconic character, has been announced. And finally, the documentary has dropped some crucial details, including several notable names and a release date.

The first installment of the original Ultraman first aired as a live-action series in Japan on July 17, 1966. Now, as it steps into its 60th year, Tsuburaya Productions' official website announced a new documentary that will explore the origins of the iconic Japanese superhero.

Planned by director Hirokazu Kore-eda (Shoplifting Family), the film will also bring back the original cast and crew who contributed to creating the iconic superhero. It will also feature notable voices who will share their own perspectives and interpretations of the legendary superhero. So, it is worth taking a look at the cast and special appearances in the documentary.

Susumu Kurobe (Hayata): Hayata is the host of Ultraman in the original series. 

Hiroko Sakurai (Fuji): Fuji is the main communications officer of the SSSP. 

Sandayū Dokumamushi (Arashi): Arashi is also a member of SSSP.

Toshihiro Iijima (screenplay, direction)

Kazuo Sagawa (cinematography) 

Apart from the original cast, several filmmakers and notable members of the entertainment industry will also be featured in the documentary. And each will share their interpretation of Ultraman. After all, the Japanese superhero has also inspired franchises like Godzilla and Power Rangers. Here are some of the directors and artists who will make an appearance.

Guillermo del Toro

Hideo Kojima

Hideaki Anno

Shinji Higuchi (Shin Godzilla)

Nicolas Winding Refn

Shannon Tindall (Ultraman: Rising)

Kairi Narita

John Aoshima (Ultraman: Rising)

Pat Cadigan

Animation Legend Seth MacFarlane Picks His Mount Rushmore of Greatest Adult Animated Shows

While the special guests featuring in the show are already revealed, when can fans expect the documentary? 

The new documentary arrives just ahead of the original Ultraman anniversary date in 1966, with its release date set for July 3, 2026. Until then, fans can revisit the Netflix Ultraman animated series, which spans three seasons and is perfect for a binge-watch. As for the documentary, which brings together several filmmakers who have worked on Ultraman films or been inspired by the franchise, it will not only reveal lesser-known details but also the nostalgia surrounding the iconic superhero. 

Netflix’s New Animated Feature 'Charlie vs. the Chocolate Factory' to Be Voiced by Taika Waititi and Kit Connor

Will you watch the documentary, THE ORIGIN OF ULTRAMAN? Let us know in the comments.