“To Be Hero X” Episode 4, titled “The Commoner,” marks a significant turning point in the anime series, delivering emotional twists, intense action, and shocking revelations. This episode, directed by Kōdai Kakimoto and written by Yuniko Ayana, picks up where Episode 3 left off, immediately plunging viewers into the thick of the conflict between Lin Ling and God Eye. The episode not only maintains the series’ high production standards but elevates them, setting a new benchmark with its powerful storytelling and expertly crafted suspense.
The Burden of “Nice”
The initial episodes of “To Be Hero X” have masterfully explored the double-edged nature of being a superhero. While offering fame, wealth, and extraordinary powers, it simultaneously strips away personal freedom, turning heroes into slaves to their public image and the fickle desires of the masses. This is exemplified through Lin Ling’s journey as he assumes the mantle of “Nice” after the original hero’s suicide.
Initially forced into the role, Lin Ling quickly embraces the persona of “Nice,” seemingly fulfilling his dreams. However, Episode 4 brings him to a critical juncture where he confronts the core of his being: he doesn’t want to be “Nice”; he wants to be a hero.
Nice struggles with his inability to act decisively, constrained by the expectations of his devoted fans. A large crowd gathers outside Hero Tower to protest Nice leaving, fearing the loss of their idealized hero. This illustrates the dark side of Trust Value, preventing Nice from acting according to his own will. Miss J sends Treeman’s cleaner, the Blankster, to handle God Eye, but he is quickly defeated, further highlighting Nice’s paralysis.
The Birth of The Commoner
In a pivotal moment, Lin Ling resolves to defy his fans’ expectations, realizing he can no longer live as an impostor. Shedding the image of “Nice,” he reveals his true identity to the public: he is Lin Ling, an ordinary citizen, and the original Nice is dead. This confession causes his Trust Value to plummet to zero, but it also liberates him to act according to his own values.
Facing God Eye, Lin Ling fights to save Moon, fueled by his genuine feelings for her. Despite having no powers, his honesty and determination inspire the crowd, who begin to support him for who he truly is. This renewed support grants him the strength to defeat God Eye, showcasing the moral that one doesn’t need powers to do the right thing. The battle is a stark contrast to Lin Ling’s previous fights as Nice; all the grace is gone, replaced by raw willpower and the belief of thousands.
A World of Illusions
After defeating God Eye, Lin Ling discovers that the Moon he rescued was a fake, a mannequin used as bait to lure him into revealing the truth. God Eye’s primary goal was not simply to defeat Nice but to expose the manufactured nature of heroes. The real Moon is revealed to be stranded on a deserted island, where she had sought to escape the demands and expectations of her heroic role.
Lin Ling uses Moon’s teleportation device to find her, leading to a heartfelt reunion. However, this reunion is tragically cut short when E-Soul, another of the Top 10 heroes, appears and shoots Moon, leaving Lin Ling devastated.
E-Soul’s Shocking Act
The episode’s final moments are filled with suspense and tragedy as E-Soul appears and shoots Moon. This shocking act raises several questions and implications:
- Who is E-Soul? E-Soul is one of the Top 10 heroes, and his sudden appearance and violent act are completely unexpected. The episode seemingly implicates him as Moon’s murderer, upending the entire plot.
- Why did E-Soul kill Moon? The motive behind E-Soul’s actions remains unclear. Some theories suggest he may be working with the Spotlight Organization or has his own agenda.
- What does this mean for Lin Ling? Moon was Lin Ling’s only real connection, and her death resets his story. His desire to avenge her could lead to significant conflict with the Hero Association.
- Was it really E-Soul? There is speculation about whether the figure who shot Moon was actually E-Soul, or someone disguised as him.
Animation and Production
“To Be Hero X” continues to impress with its high production values, blending various animation styles to enhance the storytelling. Episode 4 introduces a new art style during Lin Ling’s fight against God Eye, characterized by white backgrounds, intense hand-drawn lines, and streaks of vibrant light. The episode also features new characters and expands the world of the series.
Key elements of the animation
- Dynamic action sequences: The fight scenes are captivating, mixing both normal and comic book animation styles.
- Emotional depth: The animation effectively conveys the characters’ emotions, enhancing the impact of key moments.
- Visual flair: The new art style and attention to detail add to the overall quality of the episode.
Themes and Analysis
Episode 4 of “To Be Hero X” explores several key themes:
- The price of heroism: The episode highlights the sacrifices and loss of personal freedom that come with being a hero.
- Authenticity vs. image: Lin Ling’s struggle to reconcile his true self with the expectations of “Nice” underscores the importance of authenticity.
- The power of belief: The episode demonstrates how public perception and belief can shape reality, granting heroes their powers.
- Tragedy and loss: Moon’s death serves as a catalyst for change and raises questions about the nature of justice and revenge.
Lin Ling’s transformation
Lin Ling’s journey in Episode 4 is a powerful exploration of self-discovery and the courage to defy expectations. By rejecting the persona of “Nice,” he embraces his true identity as an ordinary person with a strong moral compass. This transformation is both inspiring and tragic, as it leads to the loss of his powers but also allows him to connect with Moon on a deeper level.
The role of public perception
The series emphasizes the significant influence of public perception on superheroes. The Trust Value system demonstrates how heroes’ powers are directly tied to their public image, making them vulnerable to manipulation and control. This theme raises questions about the ethics of hero management and the potential for abuse of power.
Reception and Impact
“To Be Hero X” Episode 4 has been widely praised for its compelling narrative, emotional depth, and stunning animation. Critics have lauded the episode’s pacing, character development, and suspenseful plot twists. The shocking ending has left fans eagerly anticipating the next episode and speculating about the future of the series.
Critical acclaim
- Emotional weight: The episode delivers a powerful and moving experience, with emotional moments hitting hard.
- Gripping developments: The plot twists and revelations keep viewers engaged and invested in the story.
- Masterful suspense: The episode expertly builds suspense, leading to a shocking and unforgettable climax.
- High production quality: The animation, music, and direction are all top-notch, contributing to the overall quality of the episode.
Final Thoughts
“To Be Hero X” Episode 4, “The Commoner,” is a masterpiece of storytelling, blending action, emotion, and suspense into a truly unforgettable experience. The episode marks a turning point in the series, with Lin Ling embracing his true identity and facing the tragic loss of Moon. The shocking ending raises numerous questions and sets the stage for a new arc filled with revenge, mystery, and conflict. With its compelling characters, thought-provoking themes, and stunning visuals, “To Be Hero X” continues to solidify its reputation as one of the standout anime of Spring 2025.
