Kineko Video unearths rare broadcast version of Bremen 4: Angels in Hell

Professional fan-based anime archivists Kineko Video have unearthed what they describe as a "potentially very rare, unfinished version of Bremen 4: Angels in Hell", which was produced, written directed and designed by the master Osamu Tezuka for television in 1981 as part of Nippon Televesion's "24 Hour Television: Love Saves the Earth" telethon event. 

Legend has it that this version was so unfinished prior to airing that amateur animators were brought in to try and finish the film, but even that couldn't save it. It aired unfinished and around a third of the film was completely re-animated before being released for home video, with the original never to be seen again.

Perhaps until now.

A 35mm print of the film has been tracked down, but with no way to compare it to what was originally broadcast, the only way to verify its purpose is to compare it to the home release edition. Certainly elements of pacing, animation and editing show significant changes, making this either the original broadcast print, or one made for audiences outside of Japan. The film is dubbed in Mandarin and was likely intended for use in Taiwan or Hong Kong. Whatever its origins, it does indeed contain much of the original, unfinished animation and remains a remarkable find. Happily for us, it's also subtitled in English, so we can enjoy it too.

The film has been scanned into 4k, so despite its age, it looks remarkably crisp. This is an opportunity to enjoy a genuinely rare presentation, and you can watch below or follow the link.

Watch Bremen 4: Angels in Hell on Youtube

If you would like to support or follow Kineko Video, follow the links below:

• Kineko Video on X
• Kineko Video on Bluesky
• Support Kineko Video on Patreon

Our thanks to John Carlo Rayas for sharing the news.