Two of Sanrio’s most beloved characters, My Melody and Kuromi, are set to star in their own stop-motion animated series on Netflix. The series, titled My Melody & Kuromi, is scheduled to premiere in July 2025, marking a double celebration for both characters. This original series will take viewers to Mariland, the whimsical home of these iconic characters.
Celebrating Anniversaries
The release of My Melody & Kuromi coincides with significant milestones for both characters. My Melody, the cheerful and kind-hearted girl who loves baking cookies with her mother, is celebrating her 50th anniversary since her debut in 1975. Kuromi, the self-proclaimed rival of My Melody with a mischievous yet feminine personality, is marking her 20th anniversary, having first appeared in 2005. This series not only honors their history but also introduces them to a new generation of fans.
A Fresh Take on Beloved Characters
This new series will present My Melody and Kuromi in a unique stop-motion animation style, a departure from traditional anime. The animation style is reminiscent of classics like “Wallace and Gromit,” adding a nostalgic charm to the series. A sneak peek of the characters in their stop-motion form has already been released, showcasing their adorable and tactile designs, which makes viewers want to reach out and touch them.
The Story and Setting
My Melody & Kuromi will be set in Mariland, the fantastical world where these characters live. The series will delve into their everyday adventures, highlighting their contrasting personalities and the unique dynamic of their relationship. Though Kuromi is known as My Melody’s rival, she is quite feminine and has become a fan favorite, even ranking in the Top 3 of the 2024 Sanrio character ranking. The narrative will explore the themes of friendship, rivalry, and self-discovery, appealing to audiences of all ages.
Meet the Characters
My Melody is described as a straightforward and cheerful girl who deeply cares for her younger brother. She enjoys baking cookies with her mother and has been beloved by fans since her introduction in 1975. She embodies positivity and kindness.
Kuromi, on the other hand, is introduced as My Melody’s self-proclaimed rival. She may appear to be a troublemaker, but she is actually quite feminine and has a sentimental side. This duality has made her equally popular among fans. Kuromi is known for her punk-rock attitude and has a unique balance of sass and sweetness that makes her stand out.
The Creative Team Behind the Series
The series is directed by Tomoki Misato, a visionary creator known for his work on the popular stop-motion animation Pui Pui Molcar. Misato has expressed his enthusiasm for the project, highlighting the challenges and creativity involved in bringing the Sanrio characters to life through stop-motion animation. He stated that this momentous project motivated the team to push the limits of stop-motion, and he hopes everyone will enjoy the story set in the handcrafted Mariland.
The screenplay for My Melody & Kuromi is written by the award-winning playwright Shuko Nemoto. Nemoto wrote the script during the pandemic and worked closely with Misato and the producers through virtual meetings, emphasizing a collaborative creative process. She shared that having My Melody and Kuromi speak lines she wrote felt rewarding.
Production and Studio
The series is produced by Toruku, a studio established as part of WIT Studio, known for its work on anime series like Spy x Family and Attack on Titan. This marks the first stop-motion animation series for Toruku. The involvement of these studios guarantees a high level of animation quality and a fresh take on the beloved characters.
Why Stop-Motion?
The decision to use stop-motion animation adds a unique dimension to the series. This technique involves manipulating physical objects frame by frame to create the illusion of movement. Stop-motion provides a tactile and handcrafted feel that perfectly complements the kawaii aesthetic of the Sanrio characters. This choice also distinguishes it from other recent Sanrio animation projects and offers a fresh experience to long-time fans.
Netflix and Sanrio: A Growing Collaboration
My Melody & Kuromi is the latest addition to Netflix’s growing slate of content inspired by Sanrio characters. Netflix has previously released other titles like Aggretsuko and Gudetama: An Eggcellent Adventure. This series is also in line with Netflix’s commitment to providing diverse and high-quality animation content. This collaboration highlights the enduring appeal of Sanrio characters in global popular culture.
What to Expect
Viewers can expect a delightful adventure filled with heartwarming stories and charming characters. The series promises to be visually captivating, with its intricate stop-motion animation and vibrant setting. The show will appeal to those who have adored the characters for decades, as well as newcomers.
The series aims to push the boundaries of stop-motion animation while staying true to the essence of the characters. With a talented creative team and a well-loved cast, My Melody & Kuromi is poised to be a hit with families around the world.
A Series for All Ages
The series is designed to be enjoyed by audiences of all ages, making it a perfect family viewing option. The themes of kindness, friendship, and self-discovery will resonate with viewers of all backgrounds. Both adults and children are expected to find something to love in this new stop-motion series.
Mark Your Calendars
My Melody & Kuromi is set to debut on Netflix in July 2025. Sanrio fans, animation enthusiasts, and families should mark their calendars for the release of this highly anticipated series. The show is positioned to be a significant addition to Netflix’s animation lineup, bringing joy and heartwarming adventures to viewers worldwide. The arrival of My Melody & Kuromi will surely be a highlight of the summer, offering a refreshing and adorable take on these iconic characters.
