Gunn Shares Close-Up Ultraman Image, Mask Mystery Remains

With Superman's highly anticipated release approaching, accompanied by multiple trailers and promotional images, audiences have gained substantial insight into what to expect from the film and its roster of characters.

However, one character has remained particularly enigmatic since his appearance in the initial Superman trailer: Ultraman.

Writer-director James Gunn's interpretation of Ultraman radically departs from the DC comics version. Traditionally depicted as Superman's evil counterpart from an alternate universe who visually resembles the Man of Steel, Ultraman undergoes a bold reinvention.

Gunn's Ultraman bears no physical resemblance to Superman whatsoever. The character sports tactical military-style fatigues complemented by distinctive goggles and mask, though trailers confirm his iconic chest emblem remains intact. Initial footage suggests Ultraman shares Superman's core abilities while maintaining this dramatically different aesthetic.

Gunn recently unveiled a high-resolution image offering unprecedented clarity of Ultraman's masked visage. The detailed shot accentuates various costume elements, particularly the weathered goggles - but tantalizingly obscures the wearer's true identity.

Ultraman. pic.twitter.com/KvdcMYL3XZ

— James Gunn (@JamesGunn) June 24, 2025

The fandom has generated numerous theories regarding Ultraman's concealed identity - ranging from plausible explanations (a Superman clone, Boravian operative, or disguised Martian Manhunter) to more speculative notions (including humorous Chris Pratt suggestions). IGN's comic authority Jesse Schedeen posits potential influences from Nuclear Man (Superman IV) or certain Bizarro comic iterations.

So it's confirmed this is ultraman but who's playing him. pic.twitter.com/1TanQAGBJv

— sonci4536 (@AtikChafik) June 24, 2025

The new visual has reignited speculation cycles, with some noting aesthetic parallels to Doomsday's design (particularly his armored appearance in Superman: The Man of Steel comics). This contrasts starkly with Doomsday's monstrous portrayal in Zack Snyder's Batman v Superman.

pic.twitter.com/e97jbFv9yG

— Daniel Guerra (@guerra_daniel) June 24, 2025

The deliberate concealment of Ultraman's identity serves a narrative purpose - preserving mystery for theatrical audiences anticipating a dramatic revelation.

Gunn recently teased Ultraman's origins while maintaining ambiguity during an Entertainment Weekly interview. When questioned whether the character represents Lex Luthor's attempt to engineer a "Superman analog," Gunn confirmed: "That's essentially accurate. Ultraman operates as Lex's powerful enforcer."

The mystery will ultimately unravel when Superman premieres on July 11.

In related developments, Gunn recently addressed concerns about potential narrative overcrowding, stating cryptically: "Oppenheimer features triple our speaking roles," suggesting confident streamlining of Superman's ensemble cast.