The Ultraman Season 1

The Ultraman Season 1 has built a real following on and among viewers who want their sci-fi to think as hard as it looks. A single, tightly-focused season means there is plenty to get through without ever feeling padded. An 8/10 rating says what the writing already makes obvious: this one works. Kei Tomiyama's performance is the anchor the more ambitious scenes need. Put it on tonight and see for yourself.

Whatever else is competing for your attention this week, The Ultraman Season 1 is worth clearing space for. What makes The Ultraman Season 1 work is that the ideas never crowd out the people having them. Season 1 of The Ultraman includes 50 episodes. It aired from April 1979 to March 1980. This season stars Kei Tomiyama, Masatô Ibu and Sumi Shimamoto. Kei Tomiyama and Masatô Ibu lead a cast that brings real weight to the material. It was aired in 1979. The rules of The Ultraman Season 1's world are consistent enough that the big swings never feel like cheating. It rarely drops the ball, and when it does, it recovers fast.

For late-night viewing or a proper weekend binge, The Ultraman Season 1 fits the bill. It stands on its own even without an obvious comparison point. Short enough to finish in a weekend, substantial enough to feel satisfying. Kei Tomiyama anchors it with a performance that makes the more abstract moments feel personal. If you have been burned by ambitious sci-fi before, this is the exception.