To Be Hero X Episode 1 Review

It could be argued that the first episode is the most crucial part of a TV series. First impressions last a lifetime, and a poor one can determine whether audiences continue watching. The typical runtime for a broadcast animated show is around 23 minutes—a brief window to entice viewers and get them hooked. For Li Haolin, who previously wrote and directed Link Click, it serves as an opportunity to establish To Be Hero X as a wacky, dynamically animated series with a twist-heavy narrative. Though it has a rocky start, it ultimately left me wanting more.

In this world, heroes are built on trust: if the public believes a hero can fly, they gain that power; conversely, they lose their abilities when that trust is broken. To Be Hero X follows Lin Ling, a young man working in advertising, primarily on campaigns for heroes Nice (Natsuki Hanae) and Moon. Lin is obsessed with becoming a hero and views Moon as a goddess, but his life turns upside down when he gets fired and tragedy befalls Nice. Struggling with the aftermath, Lin must become the hero he has always dreamed of being.

To Be Hero X‘s biggest flaw lies in its drastic changes in animation style. Episode one features three distinct styles: a prominent 3D aesthetic reminiscent of Netflix’s Arcane; a comic book look during flashbacks that evokes Spider-Verse; and a more Studio Trigger-like flair during key action scenes. While the transitions from 3D to 2D can be overwhelming at times, everything is beautifully animated and full of personality. Though it pays homage to these influences, it still manages to feel fresh and unique for an animated series.

Narratively, it covers a lot in its brief runtime. The episode starts at 100 mph, but once it finds its rhythm, the story becomes utterly engaging—especially when exploring Lin’s journey to becoming a hero. A key flashback during the climactic fight scene stands out as a highlight, blending stunning animation with emotionally resonant storytelling. The episode’s ending left me on the edge of my seat, eager for more—only to be disappointed by the wait for the next installment.

The first episode of To Be Hero X is an enjoyable introduction, boasting stellar animation and strong hooks that leave you wanting more. I truly hope the show can maintain this momentum; if it does, audiences are in for a wild ride.

★★★1/2

Streaming on Crunchyroll / Natsuki Hanae, Nobunaga Shimazaki, Koichi Yamadera, Inori Minase, Ayane Sakura / Dir: Li Haolin / Crunchyroll

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About the Author

Robert Ewing

Author

Rob is a freelance film critic and writer who specialises in Anime and Asian cinema. I have adored film since a young age, having watched films that were far too old for me, such as RoboCop, Die Hard, and Hot Tub Time Machine, to discovering the heights of foreign cinema through films like Headhunters and Battle Royale. Growing up with such a diverse catalogue of films that I cherished sparked my desire to discuss them. This passion eventually led me to become a reviewer. Dissecting films, speaking to filmmakers I admire, and showcasing the best of Asian and anime cinema is how I live my best and truest life.

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