Since its debut in 1966, Ultraman has evolved from a groundbreaking Japanese television series into a global cultural icon whose influence has shaped generations of filmmakers, animators, and creators worldwide. Created by Eiji Tsuburaya (founder of Tsuburaya Productions, VES Hall of Fame inducted director/filmmaker known as the “Father of Tokusatsu”), the wildly popular series followed the adventures of superhero Ultraman and pioneered the genre of tokusatsu (“special effects”), the live-action effects-driven entertainment that would go on to define sci-fi and fantasy for decades.

Countless creators from filmmaker Guillermo del Toro to video game designer Hideo Kojima have found inspiration in Ultraman’s innovative craft, powerful storytelling and sheer visual creativity. As the franchise celebrates its 60th anniversary, Ultraman continues to serve as a wellspring of imagination for not only fans, but also the next generation of international creators across film, television, animation, and gaming.

Join us for the 60th anniversary celebration this July at JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles with special episode screenings, a feature documentary, and an exclusive filmmakers’ panel honoring Ultraman’s far-reaching legacy.

Part I | Screening of THE ORIGIN OF ULTRAMAN (2026)

Planned by acclaimed filmmaker Hirokazu Koreeda, this new documentary film brings together an extraordinary lineup of internationally renowned filmmakers and tokusatsu creators—including Guillermo del Toro, Hideo Kojima, Hideaki Anno, Shinji Higuchi, and Nicolas Winding Refn—to explore the deep impact of Ultraman on their own work, and what makes it an enduring cultural icon. Through their unique perspectives, the documentary examines the franchise’s groundbreaking creativity, technical innovations, and resonant vision, where both heroes and kaiju (giant monsters) are imbued with depth, humanity, and purpose through unforgettable character designs and compelling storytelling.

Part II | Filmmakers’ Panel

Following the screening, guests are invited to a special talk featuring Hirokazu Koreeda, Shannon Tindle and John Aoshima, co-directors of Ultraman: Rising. Together, they will discuss Ultraman’s profound influence on entertainment and its impact on generations of fans worldwide, from children discovering the hero for the first time to lifelong enthusiasts to the creators behind some of today’s most popular TV, films, animation and games.

A Month of Celebration

To share the joys of Ultraman with viewers at home, a special selection of curated episodes will be available to stream for free on YouTube throughout the month of July. Featuring some of the franchise’s most memorable adventures across different eras, this limited-time lineup offers both longtime fans and newcomers the perfect opportunity to experience the stories, heroes, and iconic kaiju that have inspired the generations.

(7/1) EP15 | Terrifying Cosmic Rays
(7/2) EP23 | My Home is Earth
(7/17) EP1 | Ultra Operation No. 1
(7/24) EP2 | Shoot the Invader
(7/25) EP8 | The Monster Anarchy Zone
(7/31) EP3 | SSSP, Move Out!

About THE ORIGIN OF ULTRAMAN

Featuring exclusive interviews with world-renowned directors and creators, including Guillermo del Toro, Hirokazu Koreeda, Hideo Kojima, Hideaki Anno, Shinji Higuchi, and Nicolas Winding Refn.

A commemorative documentary celebrating the 60th anniversary of the Ultraman series. This masterful film explores the origins of the legendary Japanese Tokusatsu (special effects) series, Ultraman. Through the eyes of today’s most influential filmmakers and visionaries, the truth behind Ultraman is finally unveiled.