Ultraman season 1, episode 3 recap: Being Ultraman Isn’t Bad

In episode 3 of Netflix series Ultraman, Shinjiro is officially asked to become Ultraman. Does he have what it takes? Probably, sure.

Previously in Netflix’s Ultraman, the young Shinjiro (Josh Hutcherson) learned that he and his father Shin (Fred Tatasciore) are special. In addition to having super strength and a special knack for being attacked, Shinjiro was able to fend for himself against the evil alien Bemular (Kaiji Soze). It didn’t hurt that Shinjiro was helped by Mr. Ide (Brian Palermo) and his crew over at SSSP (Scientific Special Search Party). Now, as Shin is hospitalized from Bemular’s brutal attack, Mr. Ide tells Shinjaro what’s what regarding their little organization.

Ide introduced Shinjiro to Edo (D.C. Douglas), the last of the Zettonians. It’s an awkward introduction, to be sure. Not only does Edo look way different but he says, back in the day, his people tried to invade the earth and killed the original Ultraman! However, it’s all good in the hood after the Zettonians signed a peace accord with planet earth. According to Edo, Bemular (and other aliens) now threaten the peace agreement. We’re not really introduced to the other aliens yet, but we briefly see a literal four-eyed alien man at one point. It’s implied he may be up to something ominous.

Ultraman is back, baby!

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In his unique speaking style, Edo asks Shinjiro to be the next Ultraman, but the boy seems reluctant at first (to be fair, it would be a big decision — but it already seems like a foregone conclusion). As he returns to his semi-normal life, Shinjiro’s reminded of his uniqueness. He happens to see a guy he injured before and the guy avoids him.

Also, after displaying feats of unique strength, Shinjiro’s pals in school treat him differently. So, in little time at all, he goes back to visit his father and eventually test out his Ultraman suit and abilities. However, a nearby car accident cancels his official training, and he heads over to help save lives (being mistaken for cosplay in the process). In order to save the driver, he is instructed to use his ultra flash/specium energy. It works like a charm! The driver is very appreciative, although the new Ultraman flees any police questioning, flying up into his aircraft (a save and run?).

Although Moroboshi (Liam O’Brien) indicates a dislike of Shinjiro, the kid seems to be adequate. Before long he enters a kidnapping/hostage crisis, apprehending the suspect easily. In fact, he makes it look easier than literally taking out the trash. The press loves it, while people debate whether it’s really Ultraman or just some convincing cosplayer. However, Shinjiro’s next assignment seems to be more serious.

He is tasked with eliminating a bad alien, which makes him uncomfortable. Moroboshi sees it as weakness, but he doesn’t seem to have as much of a conscience. When Shinjiro sees this alien, it’s apparent that it’s indeed a rough customer. It has been killing people, drinking them up like soda through a straw. It seems that Shinjiro’s ready to attack, but will Moroboshi be correct in his doubts of the new Ultraman’s resolve?

What are your thoughts on Ultraman? Let us know in the comments!