The Appeal and Evaluation of Big X: Rediscovering a Classic Anime

Big X - The appeal and reputation of Tezuka Osamu's sci-fi action anime

1. Overview of the Work

"Big X" is a science fiction action anime based on the original work by Osamu Tezuka, which was broadcast on TBS from August 3, 1964 to September 27, 1965. The series consisted of 59 episodes, each 30 minutes long, and was animated by Tokyo Movie. The original work was the manga of the same name by Osamu Tezuka, which was serialized in Shueisha's "Shonen Book", and the anime is an original story based on that worldview.

2. Story

The story begins with a metal plate found inside the body of Dr. Asagumo after he is rushed to the hospital. On this plate are written the recipe for the giant robot "Big X", which was developed at the behest of Nazi Germany during World War II. However, during an operation, the evil organization "Nazi Alliance" attacks, and Dr. Asagumo and his family are abducted to their hideout. The Nazi Alliance uses the blueprint to complete Big X, but the rats used as test subjects grow to giant sizes and go on a rampage. To get out of this predicament, Dr. Asagumo irradiates Big X onto his son Akira, who then becomes one with Big X and begins fighting.

3. Characters

The main characters are as follows.

• Akira Asagumo : The protagonist. He merges with Big X and fights against the Nazi Alliance. Voiced by Yoshiko Ota.
• Big X : A giant robot. He fights by merging with Akira. Voiced by Akira Shimada.
• Professor Hanamaru : A friend of Professor Asagumo who helps develop Big X. Voiced by Ichiro Nagai.
• Nina : Daughter of Dr. Asagumo. Akira's younger sister. Voiced by Fuyumi Shiraishi.
• Hans Engel : Leader of the Nazi League. Voiced by Keiko Yamamoto.

4. Staff

Many talented staff members were involved in the production of "Big X." The script was written by Tsunoda Jiro, Yamano Koichi, and the Yamamoto Group (Yamamoto Keizo, Ozawa Kyo), and the direction was handled by Okamoto Mitsuteru, Shimizu Koji, Osumi Masaaki, and Kinoshita Renzo. Art was handled by Hando Katsumi and Mukuo Takamura, and music was by Tomita Isao. Tomita's music in particular is an important element in enhancing the atmosphere of the work.

5. Theme songs and music

Both the opening and ending themes are "Big X", sung by the Kamitakada Boys Choir, with lyrics by Shuntaro Tanikawa and music by Isao Tomita. The theme song has a powerful melody and lyrics that symbolize the theme of the work, and has left a deep impression on viewers.

6. Evaluation and Impact

"Big X" is recognized as a work that pioneered the new genre of sci-fi action in the world of Japanese animation in the 1960s. This work, which combines Tezuka Osamu's unique worldview with Tokyo Movie's technical capabilities, had a major impact on children at the time. In addition, the concept of the giant robot Big X is said to have had a major impact on the development of robot anime in later years.

7. Viewer Reactions

Many viewers at the time said they were moved by Big X's exploits and Akira Asagumo's bravery. The story of the fight against the Nazi alliance and the love of family were also highly praised. In particular, the scene where he becomes one with Big X and the battle scene with the giant rats left a strong impression on viewers.

8. Appeal of the Work

The appeal of "Big X" is, above all, its epic story and the presence of a giant robot called Big X. The drama of Dr. Asagumo and his family, the fight against the Nazi alliance, and the exploits of Big X all have the power to draw viewers in. In addition, the visuals, which combine Tezuka Osamu's unique style with Tokyo Movie's animation technology, also enhance the appeal of the work.

9. Recommended points

"Big X" was loved by many viewers as a pioneer of sci-fi action anime. In particular, the concept of giant robots and the story depicting family love are deeply moving to viewers. In addition, Osamu Tezuka's worldview and Isao Tomita's music also enhance the appeal of the work. If you like robot anime or sci-fi action, or if you are interested in Osamu Tezuka's work, this is a work you should definitely watch.

10. Summary

"Big X" is a representative work of Japanese animation in the 1960s, fusing Tezuka Osamu's unique worldview with Tokyo Movie's technical capabilities. The spectacular story and the presence of the giant robot Big X left a strong impression on viewers. The story, which depicts family love and courage, was also highly praised and had a major impact on the development of robot anime in the future. This work, which was loved by many viewers as a pioneer of sci-fi action anime, has not lost its charm even today. Please watch it at least once and experience the excitement.