News
Shannon Tindle Talks About Bringing Ultraman: Rising to Life Through a New Trailer
Bringing the Ultraman universe to a broader audience, especially those unfamiliar with the iconic Japanese superhero series that debuted in 1966, was once quite a challenge. Despite my deep affection for Ultraman, the language barrier often hindered my efforts to share its greatness with others. However, with the recent success of Shin Ultraman and the upcoming release of Netflix’s Ultraman: Rising, the task is becoming much more manageable! This animated film, spearheaded by the talented writer-director Shannon Tindle (known for his work on Kubo and the Two Strings), offers a fresh perspective on the beloved character.
I had the privilege of speaking with Tindle about his journey in bringing this new vision of Ultraman to life, coinciding with the release of an exciting new trailer. Here’s a glimpse into our conversation:
**Nerdist:** Your idea for Ultraman: Rising has been percolating for quite some time. When did the possibility of incorporating Ultraman into this vision become evident?
**Tindle:** The concept initially took shape at another studio, but when the project took a new direction, I seized the opportunity to pitch it to Netflix. During the pitch session, Armi Kubian, fresh from a meeting with Tsuburaya Productions in Japan, proposed integrating Ultraman into the story. I was intrigued by the idea but emphasized the importance of preserving the original narrative’s essence. Tsuburaya Productions embraced the concept wholeheartedly, allowing us to craft a story that resonated with audiences while incorporating the rich mythology of Ultraman.
**Nerdist:** With Ultraman: Rising now part of the narrative, how did you navigate integrating elements from its vast universe into your storyline?
**Tindle:** I had already envisioned the original Kaiju, Gigantron, for the story. When granted access to Tsuburaya’s archive during our visit in 2018, I was amazed by the wealth of characters and concepts available. While we embraced elements like Ultraman’s signature moves and iconic costumes, our primary focus remained on storytelling. We aimed to present familiar elements in fresh ways, infusing our narrative with nods to Ultraman lore while prioritizing emotional depth and character development.
**Nerdist:** The timing seems fortuitous, especially with the growing interest in Ultraman in Western markets. How do you hope the film resonates with audiences, both new viewers and longtime fans?
**Tindle:** The increasing awareness of Ultraman, particularly in Western markets, has been remarkable to witness. While I’m excited to introduce Ultraman to new audiences, my main goal is to connect with viewers on a personal level. Despite its superhero veneer, the film’s heart lies in universal themes of family, responsibility, and personal growth. I hope audiences, whether familiar with Ultraman or not, will find resonance in the emotional journey of our characters.
**Nerdist:** The film explores themes of parenthood and inherited responsibilities within a superhero narrative. What inspired you to delve into these themes?
**Tindle:** Parenthood is a transformative journey that profoundly shapes one’s identity and priorities. I wanted to capture the challenges and joys of parenthood through Ken Sato’s journey, highlighting the delicate balance between personal aspirations and familial obligations. By anchoring our superhero tale in relatable human experiences, we aimed to create a compelling narrative that transcends genre boundaries.
Official Poster Event South Park The End Of Obesity May 24th 2024 On Paramount Home Decor Poster Canvas
