Ultraman Nexus

Earth stands on edge as Space Beasts threaten everyday life and force authorities to improvise. A secret international unit operates from the shadows to halt attacks before they escalate. Kazuki Komon, a new recruit, is ambushed by a Space Beast before his first shift, plunging him into a world where danger is constant. In the heat of crisis a gleaming silver guardian intervenes, and the rookie begins calling him Ultraman. The guardian’s true nature stays hidden for now as teammates weigh loyalty and risk, while the unit scrambles to keep civilians safe. The tension between secrecy and duty drives every mission, turning battles into tests of character and resolve.

Released in 2004, Ultraman Nexus comes from creator Keiichi Hasegawa and is part of the enduring Ultraman universe. The series leans on practical effects blended with early digital visuals and features a cast led by Takuji Kawakubo, Yusuke Kirishima, Masato Uchiyama, Yasue Sato, and Tamotsu Ishibashi.

Critics highlighted its darker serialized tone within a long running franchise, focusing on duty under pressure, memory, and the cost of war. The series also probes questions about who gets to decide when a guardian steps in, and what happens to heroes when victory comes at a cost. The show blends personal stakes with large scale battles, balancing moral ambiguity with brisk action.

Within the Ultra community Nexus is remembered for tipping the franchise toward a more serialized, moody approach and for its striking creature design and special effects. It also sparked conversations about longevity in the Ultra format and inspired fan theories about the Nexus mythos. Fans often cite its mood as a bridge between classic monster fights and modern sci fi storytelling.

Awards: There is no record of major nominations listed for Ultraman Nexus. It remains a cult favorite among Ultra fans who praise its unique tone, but industry recognition did not flow through the series.