To Be Hero X, the latest installment in the To Be Hero anthology, has arrived, and it’s making waves with its unique blend of Chinese and Japanese animation styles, a compelling narrative, and a fresh take on the superhero genre. Premiering on April 6, 2025, this series, directed by Li Haoling, is a co-production between BeDream, bilibili, and Aniplex, promising a visually stunning and thought-provoking experience.
A World Built on Belief: The Premise of To Be Hero X
The series is set in a world where “trust” equals power. In this universe, superpowers are not inherent but are granted based on public belief. If people believe someone can fly, that person gains the ability to fly. Conversely, heroes lose their powers if public trust wanes. This novel concept forms the backbone of the series, introducing a fascinating dynamic where heroes are essentially idols, their strength directly proportional to their popularity and the faith of the masses.
Trust is measured and quantified as data, reflected on people’s wrists, influencing a hero’s ranking. Every two years, the top-ranked heroes compete in a tournament where their “Trust Values” are adjusted based on their performance and public perception. At the pinnacle stands the enigmatic hero known only as “X,” shrouded in mystery and unmatched in power.
Episode 1: “Nice” – A Startling Introduction
The premiere episode, titled “Nice,” wastes no time immersing viewers in this vibrant world. It focuses on Lin Ling, an advertising agency employee who dreams of becoming a hero. Lin Ling idolizes Nice, a popular hero, and Moon, a travel vlogger he views as a goddess. His life takes a drastic turn when he’s fired, and tragedy strikes Nice.
Plot Twists and Turns
The episode quickly establishes To Be Hero X‘s willingness to subvert expectations. Lin Ling witnesses Nice’s apparent suicide, setting off a chain of events that leads him to assume Nice’s identity. This deception is driven by Miss J, Nice’s manager, who seeks to prevent the public from learning about Nice’s death.
As Lin Ling impersonates Nice, he grapples with the responsibilities and challenges of being a hero. He discovers that the public’s belief in him as Nice grants him the hero’s powers. However, the situation becomes increasingly complicated, blurring the lines between Lin Ling’s identity and the persona of Nice.
Animation and Visual Style
To Be Hero X distinguishes itself through its unique animation style, seamlessly blending 2D and 3D techniques. The series incorporates various visual styles, including a 3D aesthetic reminiscent of Arcane, comic book-style flashbacks evocative of Spider-Verse, and action sequences with a Studio Trigger-like flair. This fusion creates a dynamic and visually captivating experience, enhancing the superhero setting with vibrant colors and detailed environments.
Some critics have noted that the transitions between animation styles can be jarring initially. However, the overall effect is praised for its originality and the way it complements the narrative. The series uses the animation style to accentuate different tones and story beats, creating a visually engaging experience.
Musicality and Sound Design
The series features music by Hiroyuki Sawano, known for his work on Attack on Titan, and other talented composers such as KOHTA YAMAMOTO, Hidefumi Kenmochi, DAIKI (AWSM.), Shuhei Mutsuki, Hideyuki Fukasawa, Misaki Umase, and Ryuichi Takada (MONACA). The soundtrack enhances the dramatic weight of key scenes, adding to the overall impact of the story.
Key Characters
To Be Hero X features a diverse cast of characters, each with their own motivations and backstories.
- X: Voiced by Mamoru Miyano, X is the top-ranked hero, shrouded in mystery. He is known for his calm demeanor and overwhelming power. Despite his status, he questions the meaning of true justice.
- Nice (Lin Ling): Voiced by Natsuki Hanae, Nice is initially portrayed as the “perfect hero.” Lin Ling, an ordinary man, assumes his identity after Nice’s death. As he embodies Nice, Lin Ling grapples with the complexities of heroism and his own identity.
- Queen: Voiced by Kana Hanazawa.
- Dragon Boy: Voiced by Koki Uchiyama.
- Ghostblade: Voiced by Yuichi Nakamura.
- Little Johnny: Voiced by Yoshitsugu Matsuoka.
- Miss J (Juan): Nice’s manager, voiced by Stephanie Young, plays a crucial role in the unfolding events.
Themes and Influences
To Be Hero X explores themes of trust, identity, and the commodification of heroism. It delves into the impact of public perception on individuals and the responsibilities that come with power.
The series draws comparisons to other superhero media, such as The Boys, Tiger & Bunny, One-Punch Man, and My Hero Academia. However, it distinguishes itself through its unique world-building and its blend of Chinese and Japanese storytelling traditions.
Reception and Early Reviews
The premiere of To Be Hero X has garnered positive reviews, with critics praising its animation, storytelling, and unique premise. The series is lauded for its ability to blend 2D and 3D animation seamlessly, creating a visually stunning experience. Reviewers have also commended the series for its thought-provoking themes and its fresh take on the superhero genre.
Some reviewers have noted that the series starts at a rapid pace, packing a lot of information into the first episode. However, the engaging story and compelling characters have left viewers eager for more.
Streaming Information
To Be Hero X is available for streaming on Crunchyroll, with new episodes released weekly. In some regions, the series is also available on Netflix and Amazon Prime Video.
A Promising Start
To Be Hero X has made a strong debut, captivating audiences with its unique premise, stunning visuals, and engaging story. With its blend of Chinese and Japanese animation styles and its exploration of timely themes, this series promises to be a standout in the superhero genre. As the story unfolds, viewers can expect to be challenged, entertained, and immersed in a world where trust is the ultimate superpower.
