Who is the First Evil Ultraman? Unmasking the Original Dark Hero
When we think of Ultraman, we often picture the towering hero from Nebula M78, a beacon of justice defending Earth from monstrous threats. But what about the other side of the coin? The idea of an "evil Ultraman" might seem contradictory, but the Ultraman franchise, with its rich history and evolving lore, has explored this concept more than once. For many fans, the question of "who is the first evil Ultraman" points to a specific, iconic character who fundamentally challenged what it meant to be an Ultraman: Bemular.
Bemular: The Shadow of the Silver Giant
Bemular first appeared in the very first Ultraman series, which aired in Japan from 1966 to 1967. While he was initially presented as a monstrous alien that Ultraman had to defeat, his true nature, and the implications of an "evil Ultraman," became clearer in later installments and through expanded lore. Bemular wasn't just another monster of the week; he represented a profound departure from the heroic ideals of the original Ultraman.
Bemular's Original Appearance and Misconceptions
In his initial appearance in Episode 1 of the original Ultra Series, titled "The Day the Earth Fell," Bemular is depicted as a colossal, destructive alien. He arrives on Earth and causes widespread panic and destruction, forcing the Science Patrol to deploy their most advanced weaponry. Ultraman then appears, engaging Bemular in a fierce battle. The context of this episode portrays Bemular as a clear antagonist, a terrifying force of nature that needs to be neutralized.
However, the narrative surrounding Bemular has been significantly expanded and reinterpreted over the decades, especially with the advent of the Ultraman Retsuden series and the Netflix animated series, Ultraman (2019-2020). These later interpretations delve deeper into his motivations and his connection to the "evil Ultraman" archetype.
The Redefinition of Bemular: A Fallen Hero?
It's in the Netflix animated series, Ultraman, that Bemular truly solidifies his identity as a primary antagonist with a tragic backstory. Here, he is revealed to be a former inhabitant of the Land of Light, the home planet of the Ultras. He was once a hero, much like Ultraman himself. However, he became disillusioned and corrupted, choosing a path of destruction and dominance.
The series posits that Bemular was the first Ultra to ever leave the Land of Light and embark on a mission to conquer Earth. This makes him, in a significant way, the first "evil" Ultra in terms of intent and action. His goal wasn't to protect; it was to subjugate.
Key points about Bemular as the "first evil Ultraman":
- Original Appearance: Debuted in the very first Ultraman series as a monstrous foe.
- Netflix Series Revelation: Portrayed as a former hero from the Land of Light who turned to evil.
- First to Conquer Earth: His mission was one of conquest, not protection, making him a pioneer in Ultra villainy.
- Symbol of Corruption: Represents the potential for darkness within the Ultras themselves.
Other Notable "Evil" Ultras
While Bemular holds the distinction of being the first to embody this darker path, it's important to acknowledge that the concept of "evil" or "rogue" Ultras has been explored further. These characters often serve as foils to the heroic Ultras, highlighting the moral complexities of their universe.
- Dark Ultraman (Ultraman Dark): From Ultraman Nexus, Dark Ultraman is a parasite that possesses hosts and drains their life force. While not an Ultraman by birth, it assumes an Ultraman-like form and is a terrifying antagonist.
- Ultraman Belial: A prominent antagonist in the Ultra Series, Belial was a kingly Ultra who succumbed to darkness and power-lust. He is a significant and recurring villain who commands a vast army and wields immense power. While not the *first* in terms of broadcast order, his impact and explicitly "evil" nature are undeniable.
- Gargorgon/Ultraman Gorgon: In Ultraman Nexus, Gargorgon is a creature that can take on the form of an Ultra-like warrior, known as Ultraman Gorgon. This entity is a manifestation of fear and is a formidable foe.
However, when strictly adhering to the question of "who is the first evil Ultraman," and considering the character who *originated* the idea of an Ultra actively seeking to harm Earth and its inhabitants, Bemular, especially as reinterpreted in later series, stands out as the most fitting answer.
"The original Ultraman fought to save humanity. But the shadow of an Ultra could also cast a long darkness, a path of conquest and despair. Bemular embodies that terrifying possibility."
Why is Bemular considered "evil"?
Bemular is considered "evil" primarily due to his intent and actions. While initially presented as a monster, later interpretations reveal him as a fallen hero who actively sought to dominate Earth. His motivations are driven by power and a warped sense of superiority, directly opposing the protective and benevolent nature of the heroic Ultras.
The narrative choice to make the first monster Ultraman fights a fellow Ultra, or at least one with Ultra origins, is a powerful one. It suggests from the outset that the greatest threats might not always come from outside, but from within the very ranks of the protectors themselves.
Conclusion
The concept of an "evil Ultraman" is a fascinating one, adding layers of complexity to the beloved franchise. While other formidable Ultra antagonists exist, Bemular, through his foundational role in the original series and his re-contextualized backstory in modern interpretations, earns the title of the first evil Ultraman. He serves as a stark reminder that even heroes can fall, and that the line between protector and destroyer can be tragically blurred.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How did Bemular become evil?
The exact reasons for Bemular's fall from grace are explored in different iterations. In the Netflix series, it's implied he became disillusioned with the ideals of the Land of Light or was corrupted by a desire for power and conquest. He chose a path of destruction rather than protection.
Why is Bemular significant as an "evil Ultraman"?
Bemular is significant because he was the first character to represent the idea of a rogue or antagonist Ultra. His appearance in the very first episode of the original Ultraman series set a precedent, showing that the concept of an "evil Ultraman" was part of the franchise's DNA from the beginning.
Was Bemular always evil?
No, not according to the modern interpretations. He is often portrayed as having once been a hero or an Ultra who later turned to darkness. This tragic element makes him a more compelling villain than a simple monster.
Are there other "evil Ultramen" besides Bemular?
Yes, the Ultraman franchise has introduced several other characters who are either evil Ultras or appear in an Ultraman-like form with malicious intent, such as Ultraman Belial and Dark Ultraman. However, Bemular is considered the first in terms of his initial appearance and the implications of his existence.
