Young Black Jack
Synopsis
In the 1960s, a gifted young medical student tries to make a name for himself. Kuroo Hazama is a reserved young man with unusual black-and-white hair, a body covered with scars, and a dark past. Despite only being a medical student, his surgical brilliance starts to attract attention after he completes a seemingly impossible operation. Together with the spirited and honest intern Maiko Okamoto and Yabu, a close friend with a troubled life, Hazama devotes himself to the world of medicine. However, his path to becoming a respectable surgeon is a difficult one as student riots, war, and corruption are consuming Japan. Hazama quickly finds himself caught up in a series of nefarious circumstances that challenge his integrity as a person and his path towards becoming a surgeon. Young Black Jack chronicles the story of a man capable of performing unthinkable feats of medicine, and the journey that leads him to become the legend known as Black Jack. [Written by MAL Rewrite]
Audience Consensus
The audience generally appreciates the anime's exploration of Hazama's origins and its engagement with historical context, specifically the Vietnam War era. However, the episodic nature, underdeveloped supporting characters, and pacing issues are noted as drawbacks. While some find the medical drama compelling, others feel it lacks the depth and emotional impact of the original Black Jack series.
Strengths
- Interesting historical setting with real-world events like the Vietnam War and student protests.
- Exploration of medical ethics and moral dilemmas faced by doctors.
- Well-developed main character in Hazama, portraying his journey to becoming Black Jack.
- Good animation quality and fitting art style for the 1960s setting.
- Engaging plot with well-written short stories and a good medical drama
Weaknesses
- Inconsistent pacing and episodic nature with lack of connection between some episodes.
- Underdeveloped supporting characters and lack of depth in their backstories.
- Fan service that is unnecessary and distracting.
- Overdramatic at times.