On the 22nd, a special stage greeting was held in Tokyo to celebrate the release of Ultraman Arc The Movie: The Clash of Light and Evil, the theatrical adaptation of the Ultraman Arc TV series. Attending the event were Yuki Totsuka, Sho Kaneta, Koichiro Nishi, and director Takanori Tsujimoto.

A Joyous Celebration for the Cast and Director

The stage greeting began with the cast stepping into their roles, joined by director Tsujimoto, who humorously introduced himself as "Dr. Tsujimoto," an expert on Ultraman Arc. They opened with a cheerful “Good morning!” to the audience, setting a warm and relaxed tone. Kaho Mizutani, who plays Rin Natsume, was unable to attend but sent a heartfelt message: “Yuma, Shu, Chief, and the director are all hilarious, so they’ll definitely keep things lively in my absence!” This playful remark drew laughter, especially when the cast jokingly responded, “That’s quite the challenge!”

Cast Shares Their Feelings on the Movie’s Release

As the film marks its theatrical debut, each cast member expressed their emotions about the momentous occasion.

Yuki Totsuka (Yuma Hize):
“The weather was amazing this morning, and my heart feels just as bright and clear!”

Sho Kaneta (Shu Ishido):
“While Yuma feels clear-headed, I’m a bit ‘chaotic’ inside. I’m thrilled for the release, but at the same time, there’s a bit of sadness knowing it’s now out in the world.”

Koichiro Nishi (Hiroshi Ban):
“I’ve been looking forward to this day more than anyone. Seeing so many fans here is truly an honor!”

Director Takanori Tsujimoto:
“I’m overjoyed that so many people are interested in Ultraman and kaiju. And as the ‘Head of SKIP Shinjuku Piccadilly Branch,’ I couldn’t be happier to see a full house today! (laughs)”

Fans React with Enthusiasm on Opening Day

The film’s opening on the 21st received glowing reviews from fans:

“What an incredible movie! Truly moving!”
“Seeing Arc back in action again was amazing!”
“So many great moments—I need to watch it multiple times!”

Asked about their favorite scenes, the cast and director shared their personal highlights:

Director Tsujimoto:
“There’s a kaiju called Moogo (JP: ムーゴン)n, and its tail twitches based on its mood, just like a dog’s. I loved working on that scene!”

Koichiro Nishi:
“I love Moogon’s expressions and eye movements. I keep watching that part over and over!”

Sho Kaneta:
“The fight scene between Ultraman Arc and Guil Arc, where they clash with ‘Arc Finalize,’ is definitely a must-watch!”

Yuki Totsuka:
“It has to be the ‘hotpot scene’! It appears when the characters are feeling ‘stewed over’—literally and figuratively! (laughs)”

Exclusive Movie-Only Scenes to Watch For

The cast also highlighted unique moments that set the movie apart from the TV series:

Yuki Totsuka:
“There’s a transformation scene where Yuma simply presses the Arc Cube, showing how deeply connected he has become with Arc. That’s something you won’t see in the TV series.”

Sho Kaneta:
“For Shu, it’s the coffee scene! I’m thrilled that coffee plays a role even in the movie!”

Koichiro Nishi:
“Honestly, every scene is worth watching! You’ll enjoy it no matter how many times you see it!”

Director Tsujimoto:
“There’s a scene where someone wakes up and says, ‘Oh, I was unconscious.’ But if you wer

A Live Transformation and an Electrifying Face-off

To the audience’s excitement, Yuma performed a live transformation on stage, using the Arc Ariser and Arc Cube while the entire crowd shouted, “Unleash your imagination!” As Ultraman Arc made his entrance, children in the audience called out, “Arc!” in excitement, adding to the magical atmosphere.

Then, the cast and fans joined in performing the “SKIP Exercise,” a viral hit from the Ultraman Arc spin-off content. Just as the energy peaked, the “Black Ultraman Arc” himself—Guil Arc—made a dramatic entrance, walking through the theater with an intense presence. The tension heightened as Arc and Guil Arc engaged in a powerful stare-down, thrilling the audience.

To conclude, the audience participated in a special light and hologram display, forming a giant “Arc” (rainbow) for a commemorative photo.

Final Messages from the Cast and Director

As the event neared its end, director Tsujimoto urged fans to share their excitement while keeping spoilers to a minimum:
“I hope everyone who sees the movie enjoys it as much as you did today. Please spread the word on social media—but without giving away too much!”

Koichiro Nishi made an impassioned plea:
“Please, everyone… help promote this movie! I love Ultraman Arc, and I want it to reach people all over Japan and the world!”

Sho Kaneta echoed this sentiment:
“This film helps fill the void left by the TV series ending. Watch the movie, then rewatch the show—you’ll appreciate it even more!”

Finally, Yuki Totsuka closed the event with a heartfelt message:
“This movie is something everyone will enjoy. I hope you immerse yourself in it until the very last moment!”

With this, the nationwide stage greeting tour officially kicked off, with upcoming appearances at theaters across Japan. It was also announced that Guil Arc would be making special appearances at select stage greetings in the Tokyo metropolitan area on the 23rd and 24th.

Source : ORICON NEWS