Black Jack, the iconic underground surgeon created by the ‘God of Manga’ Osamu Tezuka, gains new momentum in January 2026 with the release of the complete Blu-ray collection produced by MediaOCD. This special edition brings together the 12 episodes of the acclaimed OVA, initially directed by the legendary Osamu Dezaki, and features a series of exclusive content for Brazilian fans. Scheduled for distribution in the domestic market, the release revives complex stories that blend medical mysteries with strong social criticism, an always relevant theme. Thus, it presents itself not only as a collector’s item but as an essential revisit to a work that shaped generations.
The release is relevant because it preserves and expands access to seminal content, thanks to the extensive extras included. Among them are audio commentaries from director Dezaki and producer Sumio Udagawa, as well as interviews with other directors and voice actors. As a result, the set offers a deep immersion into the creative process behind the stories of the world’s most expensive doctor. Additionally, the high-definition remastering allows appreciation of details in the animation and Dezaki’s characteristic dramatic visual techniques, ensuring the work remains impactful for today’s audience.
Stories That Go Beyond Medicine
The true strength of this collection, however, lies in the multifaceted narratives it presents. While Black Jack begins each case with calculated coldness, the episodes gradually reveal his humanity and compassion. Dezaki and voice actor Akio Ōtsuka manage to build deep emotional layers for the character, especially in arcs like ‘The Funeral Cortege Game’ and ‘The Sinking Woman’. On the other hand, episodes like the second, involving government corruption and teenagers in danger, are considered definitive, blending social criticism with irresistible medical suspense. Therefore, watching these episodes is an experience that goes far beyond simple morbid curiosity, exploring universal themes such as trauma, memory, and resistance.
The production extras also shed light on curious decisions, such as the inclusion of Pinoko, the doctor’s child assistant. Although initially considered for cutting by Dezaki, she was ultimately kept as comic relief, even gaining a backstory episode that adds dramatic weight to her persona. Thus, the collection not only delivers entertainment but also rich study material on the adaptation of manga to animation. For those seeking an immersive auditory experience, the English dubbing is also praised for its naturalness, while the soundtrack, although dated, carries the characteristic charm of the era.
An Item for True Connoisseurs
In summary, this Blu-ray edition of ‘Black Jack: The Complete OVA Series’ stands as a release of high technical and artistic standard. It serves both as a gateway for new fans wanting to know the roots of adult anime and as an indispensable collector’s item for nostalgics. With its combination of timeless stories, remastered visuals, and a robust package of extra content, the product fully justifies its place on the shelf. Thus, in 2026, the legacy of Osamu Tezuka and Osamu Dezaki remains more alive and accessible than ever, proving that some stories truly do not age, they only gain new layers of appreciation.
