Is Ultraman: The Next Worth Watching?
Answer: Yes, Ultraman: The Next is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Family movies.
It features a runtime of 97 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
Ultraman: The Next Review
Last updated: January 11, 2026
The Premise
Released in 2004, Ultraman: The Next enters the Family genre with a narrative focused on First Lieutenant Shun'ichi Maki of the Japan Air Self-Defense Force is a prestigious F-15 Eagle jet pilot (or "driver" as he is called in the film). Under the direction of Kazuya Konaka, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from Tetsuya Bessho. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
Technical Mastery & Style
From a technical standpoint, Ultraman: The Next offers a competent presentation. The cinematography uses a distinct visual palette that aligns well with the tone. The sharp editing keeps the narrative moving at a brisk pace, maximizing the impact of the key sequences.
Social Impact & Cultural Context
Beyond the narrative, Ultraman: The Next resonates with current cultural themes in the Family space. It stays within the established boundaries of its genre, providing exactly what core fans expect without reinventing the wheel.
Where to Watch & Streaming Info
As of early 2026, Ultraman: The Next is available in theaters worldwide. For audiences in the US, UK, and India, digital rentals are typically available on platforms like Amazon Prime and Apple TV roughly 45-60 days after the theatrical release.
Narrative Arc & Plot Breakdown
The plot of Ultraman: The Next centers on a unique premise within the Family landscape. First Lieutenant Shun'ichi Maki of the Japan Air Self-Defense Force is a prestigious F-15 Eagle jet pilot (or "driver" as he is called in the film). A lifelong fan of flying since he was a child, being a pilot is his ultimate dream. Unfortunately, his duties distance himself from his wife, Yoko, who always ends up being neglected, and his son, Tsugumu, who has a congenital blood disease and has a high risk of dying at a young age.Maki decides to quit the Air Force to devote more time to his family and to spend whatever is left for his son. He takes a part-time job as a commercial tour guide run by a kindly group of people who allow him time to work and to also take care of his family. The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 2004 cinema will find fairly predictable.
Ending Explained & Sequel Potential
The ending of Ultraman: The Next has sparked significant debate on social media. It signifies the ambiguous resolution of the main plot thread. Given the current box office momentum, discussions of a Ultraman: The Next sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final Editorial Verdict
Final verdict for Ultraman: The Next (2004): with an audience rating of 6.2/10, the reception has been divisive. It is a recommended for fans of Family, Science Fiction, Action, Adventure cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
Where to Watch Ultraman: The Next Online?
Streaming HubParents Guide & Age Rating
Ultraman: The Next has not been officially rated yet. However, due to its genre classification (Family, Science Fiction, Action, Adventure), viewers should expect violence, action sequences.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 6.2/10, and global collection metrics, Ultraman: The Next stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 2004 cinematic year.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ultraman: The Next movie hit or flop?
Ultraman: The Next has received mixed reviews with a 6.2/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is Ultraman: The Next worth watching?
Ultraman: The Next is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Family, Science Fiction, Action movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch Ultraman: The Next online?
Ultraman: The Next may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
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People Also Ask (FAQs)
Is Ultraman: The Next movie hit or flop?
Ultraman: The Next has received mixed reviews with a 6.2/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is Ultraman: The Next worth watching?
Ultraman: The Next is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Family, Science Fiction, Action movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch Ultraman: The Next online?
Ultraman: The Next may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
What is the story of Ultraman: The Next?
Ultraman: The Next is a Family, Science Fiction, Action movie that follows: First Lieutenant Shun'ichi Maki of the Japan Air Self-Defense Force is a prestigious F-15 Eagle jet pilot (or "driver" as he is called in the film). A lifelong fan of flying since he was a child, bein...
Is Ultraman: The Next family friendly?
Yes, Ultraman: The Next is generally suitable for family viewing as it is a Family, Science Fiction, Action movie.
What language is Ultraman: The Next available in?
Ultraman: The Next is primarily available in its original language, with subtitles and dubbed versions available on various streaming services and digital stores.
Synopsis
First Lieutenant Shun'ichi Maki of the Japan Air Self-Defense Force is a prestigious F-15 Eagle jet pilot (or "driver" as he is called in the film). A lifelong fan of flying since he was a child, being a pilot is his ultimate dream. Unfortunately, his duties distance himself from his wife, Yoko, who always ends up being neglected, and his son, Tsugumu, who has a congenital blood disease and has a high risk of dying at a young age.Maki decides to quit the Air Force to devote more time to his family and to spend whatever is left for his son. He takes a part-time job as a commercial tour guide run by a kindly group of people who allow him time to work and to also take care of his family.
Critic Reviews
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