The Big O (1999)
A landmark noir-mecha anime set in an amnesiac city, where negotiator Roger Smith and his colossal robot confront the buried secrets of a forgotten world.
The Big O - Series Information
- Original Title: THE ビッグオー
- First Air Year: 1999
- Last Air Year: 2003
- Type: TV Series
- Genres: Animation, Drama, Action, Adventure
- Content Rating (US): TV-14
- Episode Runtime: Average runtime per episode: 25 minutes
- Number of Seasons: 1
- Number of Episodes: 26
- Status: Ended
- Original Language: Japanese
- Spoken Languages: English, Japanese
- First Air Date: October 13, 1999 (United States - TV-14), October 13, 1999 (Canada - 14+), October 13, 1999 (Australia - M)
- Networks: WOWOW Prime, Tokyo MX, Chiba TV
- Alternative Titles: 더 빅 오 (KR), 魔神Big O (CN), Big O (US)
- Production Companies: SUNRISE, Bandai Visual
- Production Countries: Japan
The Big O - Plot
Forty years ago, the minds of Paradigm City's inhabitants were wiped clean of all recollections of the past. Now, ruled by a powerful corporation and cut off from the rest of the world by desolate wastelands, Paradigm has become a virtual police state where Negotiators like Roger Smith keep the wheels of progress, commerce, and society turning.
The Big O - Trailer
Watch the official trailer and see Paradigm City's mysteries unfold:
Where to Watch The Big O
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The Big O - Cast & Crew
Main Cast
- Mitsuru Miyamoto
- Akiko Yajima
- Emi Shinohara
- Gorō Naya
- Katsunosuke Hori
- Motomu Kiyokawa
- Shinpachi Tsuji
- Unsho Ishizuka
- Sayuri
- Tessyo Genda
Writers
- Chiaki J. Konaka
- Keiichi Hasegawa
- Shin Yoshida
The Big O - FAQs
What is The Big O about?
The Big O is set in Paradigm City, a metropolis whose inhabitants lost all memories forty years ago. Negotiator Roger Smith navigates this amnesiac society, uncovering conspiracies tied to the city's forgotten past, while piloting Big O, a massive robot known as a Megadeus, to confront threats beyond ordinary resolution.
What genre is The Big O?
The Big O blends animation, drama, action, and adventure. It is particularly noted for combining the noir detective genre with giant mecha (super robot) storytelling, psychological themes, and science fiction elements, creating a distinctive tone unlike most anime of its era.
Is The Big O inspired by Batman or other Western media?
Yes. The Big O draws heavily from Western influences, particularly Batman — Roger Smith shares traits with Bruce Wayne, employing a butler, a secret base, and a brooding demeanor. The series also echoes classic American noir films and tokusatsu robot shows, resulting in a uniquely East-meets-West aesthetic.
What does the ending of The Big O mean?
The finale of The Big O remains one of anime's most debated conclusions. It suggests that Paradigm City and its inhabitants may be constructs within a cyclical, possibly simulated reality — with Roger Smith as both participant and author of the world's story. The ambiguity is intentional, inviting multiple interpretations.
Why was The Big O cancelled and then revived?
The first 13-episode season aired in Japan in 1999 but ended without a conclusion due to low ratings. Strong international reception — especially after Cartoon Network's Adult Swim broadcast — prompted a co-production deal between SUNRISE and Cartoon Network, funding a second 13-episode season that aired in 2003.
Who are the main voice actors in The Big O?
The principal Japanese voice cast includes Mitsuru Miyamoto as Roger Smith, Akiko Yajima as android R. Dorothy Wayneright, Emi Shinohara as Angel, Gorō Naya as Gordon Rosewater, Unsho Ishizuka as Alex Rosewater, Motomu Kiyokawa as Norman Burg, and Tessyo Genda as Dan Dastun.
When did The Big O first air?
The Big O first aired on October 13, 1999, in Japan on WOWOW Prime. The series later reached international audiences through Cartoon Network's Adult Swim programming block in the United States, where it gained a substantial and devoted following.
Where can viewers stream The Big O?
Streaming availability for The Big O varies by region and changes over time. For the most current and comprehensive list of platforms offering the series — whether by subscription, rental, or purchase — check JustWatch, which aggregates up-to-date viewing options across all major streaming services in your country.
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