Unveiling Ultraman: From DC Villain to James Gunn's 'Superman' Antagonist - Parallels to Black Noir From "The Boys" Explored

Step into the world of DC's darker side with Ultraman, an iconic villain whose journey from comic pages to the big screen in James Gunn's "Superman" has sparked excitement and speculation. But who is Ultraman, and how does he parallel Black Noir from "The Boys"? Let's delve into the origins, characteristics, and what his inclusion in the upcoming "Superman" film might signify.

Who is Ultraman?

Ultraman, not to be confused with the Japanese tokusatsu hero, is a DC Comics character introduced as an evil counterpart to Superman. First appearing in "Justice League of America" #29 in 1964, Ultraman hails from Earth-3, where morality is inverted, making heroes into villains. Here, he's a corrupt version of Kal-El, empowered by Kryptonite rather than weakened by it, gaining new powers with each exposure.

Powers and Abilities

• Superhuman Strength: Comparable to Superman, but with the twist of Kryptonite empowerment.

• Kryptonite Immunity: Instead of being his weakness, it's his source of power.

• Leadership in Crime: Leader of the Crime Syndicate, an evil counterpart to the Justice League.

Ultraman vs. Black Noir: Parallels and Contrasts

• Moral Inversion: Like Black Noir, Ultraman represents a twisted version of heroism, but while Black Noir is a silent, lethal assassin, Ultraman is an openly malevolent figure with a penchant for leadership.

• Identity and Mystery: Black Noir's true identity in "The Boys" is a significant plot twist, revealing him as Homelander's clone. In a similar vein, the "Superman" film teases a mystery around Ultraman's identity, suggesting he might be a clone or an alternate version of Superman.

• Visual and Role: Both characters have donned black suits, with Ultraman's inclusion in Gunn's film sporting a design that has drawn comparisons to Black Noir's stealth-like appearance, hinting at a dark mirror to Superman.

Ultraman in James Gunn's 'Superman'

James Gunn has confirmed that Lex Luthor is the main villain, but leaks, set photos, and fan theories suggest Ultraman's role, possibly as a creation of Luthor. This aligns with discussions on platforms like X, where images of a black-suited figure with a "U" on the chest have been likened to Ultraman, stirring speculation about his narrative significance. Gunn's approach to blending comic lore with unique twists indicates that Ultraman could serve as a physical and ideological antagonist, challenging Superman's ideals and testing his limits.

What Does This Mean for the Film?

• Narrative Depth: Ultraman's inclusion could delve into themes of identity, corruption, and the perversion of heroism, providing a complex antagonist for Superman to confront.

• Visual Homage: The design choice might also be a nod to fans, blending elements from various Superman antagonists into one character, perhaps setting the stage for future DCU narratives.

• Expanding the Universe: This move could hint at Gunn's interest in exploring alternate realities or clones, expanding the DCU's scope beyond traditional storytelling.

Some Closing Thoughts:

As "Superman" gears up for release, Ultraman's presence promises to add layers of intrigue, echoing the dark reflection of heroism seen in characters like Black Noir. Whether he's a clone, an alternate universe doppelganger, or something entirely new, Ultraman's role in Gunn's vision will undoubtedly be a focal point for fans eager to see how this complex villain interacts with the Man of Steel.

So, what are your expectations from Ultraman in terms of the function you expect him to play in James Gunn's Superman? Whatever you guys think, jump down in the comments section below and let us know your thoughts!

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