Key Facts Block

・Kenshi Yonezu premiered a special MV for “BOW AND ARROW” on June 23
・1 anime-manga collaboration brings Medalist to life
・Filmed partly on a real skating rink in Japan
・Manga artist Tsuruma Ikada created exclusive visuals and lines
・Released via Kodansha’s official YouTube channel

A Stunning Fusion: Kenshi Yonezu and Medalist Unite in Special MV

On June 23, a special music video featuring Kenshi Yonezu’s latest single “BOW AND ARROW” premiered on Kodansha’s official YouTube channel. This powerful collaboration brings together the emotional world of the figure skating manga Medalist with Yonezu’s signature sound, offering fans a new way to experience both art forms.

The MV opens with a live-action sequence filmed on a skating rink, seamlessly merging into dynamic manga panels. As the story unfolds, the focus centers on Inori, a young girl aiming for Olympic gold, and Tsukasa, a former athlete-turned-coach with a complicated past. Their journey, underscored by Yonezu’s soaring vocals, delivers a message of hope, perseverance, and human connection.

Behind the Animation: What Fans Need to Know

One of the most talked-about elements is the inclusion of an original line spoken by Inori—a line not found in the manga. Combined with fresh illustrations by creator Tsuruma Ikada, this scene adds a deeper emotional layer, aligning perfectly with the song’s themes. The use of both live footage and animation makes for a compelling viewing experience that resonates deeply with anime, music, and sports fans alike.

The Legacy Continues: Impact and Future

“BOW AND ARROW” also serves as the opening theme to the Medalist anime adaptation, generating buzz ahead of the show’s full release. Yonezu’s involvement in the visual production, including jacket artwork, reflects his ongoing influence in Japan’s pop and visual culture. With this collaboration, Medalist gains global visibility, and Yonezu once again proves his mastery at creating unforgettable, cross-media experiences.

FAQ

Q: Where can I watch the “BOW AND ARROW” × Medalist MV?
A: It's available on Kodansha’s official YouTube channel.

Q: Who created the manga featured in the MV?
A: The manga Medalist is created by Tsuruma Ikada.

Q: What is the story behind Medalist?
A: It follows Inori, a young figure skater, and her coach Tsukasa, as they aim for Olympic glory.

Q: Is this MV connected to the Medalist anime?
A: Yes, the song is the anime’s opening theme and the MV features exclusive scenes.

Q: What makes this MV special?
A: It combines live-action skating, manga visuals, and new lines by Inori not found in the original manga.

“BOW AND ARROW” × Medalist MV

Source : ORICON NEWS