James Gunn Reveals New Ultraman Close-Up Image

With the release of Superman just around the corner, coupled with numerous trailers and promotional images, we have a solid understanding of what to expect from the film and its extensive roster of characters.

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

Writer and director James Gunn presents a radically different version of the character famed in DC comics. Traditionally, Ultraman is depicted as an evil, alternate-universe counterpart to Superman, sharing a similar appearance albeit with a malevolent twist.

In James Gunn's Superman, Ultraman bears little physical resemblance to the Man of Steel. His suit, complete with a mask, evokes a military fatigues aesthetic, though the prominent 'U' emblem on his chest—as seen in trailers—is unmistakable. His powers, however, appear consistent with Superman's based on the footage we've seen.

Gunn has now released a new, close-up image of Ultraman, offering a detailed look. We can clearly see the intricate mask and dusty goggles. But the question remains: who is behind it?

Ultraman. pic.twitter.com/KvdcMYL3XZ

— James Gunn (@JamesGunn) June 24, 2025

Fans have already engaged in extensive speculation about Ultraman's true identity. Theories range from the plausible—such as a clone of David Corenswet's Superman, the disguised Hammer of Boravia, or Martian Manhunter (J'onn J'onzz)—to the more outlandish, like Henry Cavill or, jokingly, Chris Pratt. IGN's comic book expert, Jesse Schedeen, has suggested Ultraman may be closer to Nuclear Man from 1987's Superman IV: The Quest for Peace or certain comic iterations of Bizarro.

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

— sonci4536 (@AtikChafik) June 24, 2025

This new image has ignited another wave of theories, with some noting visual similarities to Doomsday, given the suit and goggles. While Doomsday appeared as a monster in Zack Snyder's Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, his first comic book cover on Superman: The Man of Steel #18 (December 1992) featured a more humanoid form.

pic.twitter.com/e97jbFv9yG

— Daniel Guerra (@guerra_daniel) June 24, 2025

The head-to-toe concealment of this Ultraman is intentional. The character's identity is designed to be a major mystery, building anticipation for a significant reveal in theaters.

Gunn recently offered a hint about Ultraman's origins, though he kept details sparse. When asked by Entertainment Weekly if Ultraman was Lex Luthor's attempt to create a "Superman-like figure," he replied, "It's close. Yeah, I think that's close. Ultraman is sort of Lex's thug and is pretty powerful."

All will be revealed when Superman launches on July 11.

In related news, Gunn recently addressed concerns about the film's large cast of heroes and villains being confusing, noting, "Oppenheimer has three times as many speaking roles as we do."