Medalist: A Promising Start on the Ice

Introduction

The anime Medalist has premiered, and the first two episodes have offered a glimpse into the world of figure skating through the eyes of two compelling characters. This sports drama, adapted from the manga by Tsurumaikada, follows the journey of an unlikely pair: Inori Yuitsuka, a young girl with dreams of becoming a world-class figure skater, and Tsukasa Akeuraji, a former skater who finds himself on the path to coaching. The series, animated by Studio ENGI, has garnered attention for its focus on character development and its depiction of the challenges and triumphs within the competitive world of figure skating.

Episode 1: A Fateful Encounter

Episode 1, titled “A Genius on the Ice,” introduces the two protagonists and sets the stage for their intertwined destinies. We first meet Inori Yuitsuka, a quiet but determined fifth-grader who secretly practices figure skating, despite her mother’s disapproval. Inori’s passion for skating is evident, fueled by her admiration for professional skaters. The episode then shifts to Tsukasa Akeuraji, a former ice dancer, who is struggling to find his place after his competitive career stalled. Tsukasa’s past is shrouded in disappointment, as he had aimed for greatness but failed to achieve it, leaving him working odd jobs. A chance encounter at a local ice rink brings Inori and Tsukasa together, leading to an intriguing start to their relationship.

The episode highlights Inori’s hidden talent, which is evident when Tsukasa witnesses her athletic abilities during a brief chase. Tsukasa sees a reflection of his younger self in Inori and is drawn to her determination, even if her mother is strictly against it. He sees her potential and gives her a breakdown of a figure skater’s salary, urging her to speak to her mother about her aspirations. Later, when Inori’s mother expresses her disapproval of Inori pursuing figure skating, citing her older daughter’s failure in the sport, Tsukasa steps in and volunteers to coach Inori, despite his own lack of coaching experience.

Episode 2: Taking the First Steps

Episode 2, titled “Beginner Badge Test,” sees Inori taking her first step into the world of competitive skating. Under Tsukasa’s tutelage, she begins to hone her skills and prepares to take the Badge Test, which is a crucial certification for figure skaters. The episode focuses on Inori’s practice for the test, where she meets other skaters and encounters nerves and self-doubt. The episode effectively portrays Inori’s emotional journey as she grapples with her insecurities.

During the test, Inori meets Hikaru Kamisaki, a talented skater who inspires Inori and becomes a source of motivation and potential rival. Hikaru, who is aiming for the Olympics, provides Inori with a pep talk, further solidifying her commitment to figure skating. Inori successfully passes the test. The episode also explores Inori’s growing determination and her increasing ambition, culminating in her expressing her ultimate dream to Tsukasa – to compete in the Olympics.

Character Dynamics

The series thrives on the contrasting personalities of its two protagonists. Inori is portrayed as a young and naturally talented athlete, brimming with raw passion for the sport but lacking the confidence to fully pursue her dreams. Tsukasa, on the other hand, is an experienced skater, whose dreams were crushed. He now battles with feelings of regret. His decision to coach Inori is a way for him to reignite his passion and potentially rectify his past failures. Their relationship begins as a mentor-student dynamic, but there is a subtle hint that their bond could become a partnership. Their shared passion for skating helps them overcome their doubts.

The supporting characters, such as Hitomi Takemine, Tsukasa’s former partner and the manager of the skating rink, add depth to the narrative. Hitomi’s character brings a sense of familiarity and practicality to the show, as she is the one who initially offers Tsukasa the coaching job. Additionally, Hikaru’s introduction provides an interesting dynamic. Her character serves both as a source of inspiration for Inori and as a potential rival in the future.

Animation and Production

Studio ENGI, the animation studio behind Uzaki-chan Wants to Hang Out, is producing the Medalist anime. Yasutaka Yamamoto is directing, with Jukki Hanada handling the series composition and scripts, and Chinatsu Kameyama providing the character designs. The animation, while not top-tier, has been noted to be acceptable. The skating sequences, which were a significant concern for some viewers, have been rendered well with a mix of traditional animation and CGI. The choreography is also noteworthy, with many professional ice skaters contributing to the series.

The opening theme, “BOW AND ARROW” by Kenshi Yonezu, and the ending theme, “Atashi no Dress” by neguse, add to the overall viewing experience. The voice acting also contributes to the characters, with Natsumi Haruse portraying Inori and Takeo Otsuka voicing Tsukasa.

Themes and Narrative

Medalist explores several themes, including the pursuit of dreams, overcoming obstacles, and the importance of mentorship. The series effectively captures the emotional aspects of sports, highlighting the sacrifices and dedication required to succeed in competitive figure skating. The narrative focuses on the development of both Inori and Tsukasa, making their journey all the more engaging.

The series also touches upon the theme of parental expectations and the challenges children face when trying to pursue their dreams against their parents’ wishes. Inori’s mother’s disapproval is a significant obstacle that Inori must navigate, adding a layer of realism to her struggle. The series also delves into the complexities of adult life. Tsukasa is not only a coach but also someone who is attempting to find his purpose.

Overall Impression

The first two episodes of Medalist have laid a solid foundation for a compelling sports drama. The series stands out due to its focus on the emotional and personal development of its characters, combined with its portrayal of the competitive figure skating world. While the animation may not be the most impressive, it serves its purpose in bringing the story to life. The strong character dynamics, engaging plot, and well-integrated themes make Medalist a promising series.

Medalist appears to be a refreshing take on the sports anime genre. It differentiates itself from previous figure skating anime, such as Yuri!!! on Ice, by opting for a more traditional shonen sports battle formula. The show’s success hinges on how well it can continue to develop its characters and maintain the emotional depth established in the initial episodes.

Where to Watch

Medalist is currently streaming on Hulu and Disney+ for international viewers.
The series premiered in Japan on January 4, 2025, and is part of the TV Asahi “NUMAnimation” programming block.