Big X [Episode 46]

Big X Episode 46: The Lost Tezuka Gem That Time Forgot

Imagine an anime so obscure, it once held the title of MyAnimeList’s least popular series—with just one person claiming to have completed it. Now, picture that same anime being the brainchild of Osamu Tezuka, the godfather of manga and anime who gave us Astro Boy and Kimba the White Lion. That’s Big X, a 1964 sci-fi thriller that’s become the stuff of legend among diehard anime historians. Episode 46? It’s part of the tiny slice of this 59-episode series that actually survived the test of time.

First, let’s get real: finding Big X is like hunting for a needle in a haystack guarded by a dragon. Fans on MAL (MyAnimeList) have spent years bemoaning its scarcity. “Impossible to find and not fansubbed,” one user rants, while another laments, “Osamu Tezuka’s production company has made it nearly impossible to view his classic works here in America.” Want to buy the Japanese DVD set? That’ll cost you a cool $549—if you can even get your hands on it. And don’t even ask about subtitles; until recently, only a handful of episodes had been translated by small fan groups like The Skaro Hunting Society.

So why does anyone care? Because Big X isn’t just another old anime—it’s a piece of history. Premiering in 1964, it’s one of Tezuka’s first forays into darker, more mature storytelling. The plot follows a young man named Shigeru, who gains superhuman powers after being injected with a mysterious serum called “Big X.” Set against the backdrop of post-WWII tensions (yes, it even references Hitler), the series blends sci-fi action with political intrigue—groundbreaking stuff for its era. “The 60s have some great gems,” a MAL user gushes, “and this looks to be one of the first with a more serious plot line.”

Episode 46 falls into the later part of the series (episodes 40–59 are the only ones known to exist, thanks to 1990s VHS and laserdisc releases). While details are scarce—remember, no one’s really seen it—Tezuka’s signature style shines through in what little we do know. Think dynamic character designs, dramatic angles, and that classic hand-drawn animation that feels both nostalgic and revolutionary. For fans of vintage anime, it’s like stepping into a time capsule.

But here’s the kicker: Big X’s obscurity has only fueled its allure. “I went through the ‘Most Popular’ list and found Big X at the very end,” a user recalls. “One completed, one watching, one dropped—congrats, you’re the least watched anime in MAL history!” Yet, as another fan points out, “The Skaro Hunting Society just released the first episode… a 16mm print turned up in someone’s collection!” It’s like finding a lost Beatles track—every new episode uncovered feels like a victory.

Let’s be honest: Big X isn’t for everyone. The animation is dated, the plot is campy by today’s standards, and good luck understanding it without subtitles. But for the 20-somethings who crave something off the beaten path—something that isn’t just another isekai or rom-com—it’s a treasure. “I’d love to see this if possible,” a user admits. “Why is this so hard to find? Ugh.”

In a world where anime is more accessible than ever, Big X Episode 46 stands as a reminder of the medium’s roots. It’s a testament to Tezuka’s genius, a relic of a bygone era, and a challenge to modern fans: are you willing to dig deep for the good stuff?

So, if you ever stumble upon a grainy, subtitled copy of Episode 46—hold onto it. You’re not just watching an anime; you’re holding a piece of history. And who knows? Maybe one day, Big X will get the revival it deserves. Until then, it remains the ultimate hidden gem for those in the know.

Final Verdict: 8/10 for historical significance, 2/10 for accessibility. Worth the hunt if you’re a Tezuka fanatic or a vintage anime nerd. Otherwise, stick to Netflix—this one’s for the completionists.

P.S. If you find a copy, hit me up. I’ll even split the $549 cost… maybe.