The official website for MIRU: Paths to My Future, an upcoming original TV anime project produced by Japanese diesel engine and heavy machinery manufacturer Yanmar, revealed the production studio and title of each episode. The five-episode sci-fi anthology series is scheduled to be broadcast on Japanese terrestrial TV stations in April 2025.
Episode 079:
Episode Title: “Stardust Memory”
Animation Production: LinQ
Website: https://www.lin9.co.jp/about.html
Director: Norio Kashima
Comment from director Norio Kashima:
“This story encapsulates the Butterfly Effect, demonstrating how a series of small events—in this case, space debris— can trigger a devastating chain reaction, leading to the loss of Yoshimura’s daughter, a young space pilot. We invite you to join Yoshimura, a civilian debris collection pilot, on his journey through grief as a parent. The story begins ten years after his tragic loss when a promising young pilot becomes his partner. The dynamic between this seasoned veteran and the young pilot sets off an unexpected chain of events. We hope you enjoy the full CGI animation, portraying their determination to avert another tragedy.”
Episode 101:
Episode Title: “The King of the Forest”
Animation Production: TriF Studio
Website: https://www.trifstudio.com/
Director: Okamoto
Comment from director Okamoto:
“Growing up in a rural part of Japan where anime broadcasts were limited, the ‘Yanboh and Marboh Weather Forecast’ was a cherished part of my childhood. In this episode, we explore the story of a young man pursuing his childhood dreams. My heartfelt wish is that his journey becomes ‘a butterfly’s wingbeat,’ inspiring and shaping someone’s future.”
Episode 217:
Episode Title: “Londonderry Air”
Production Studio: SCOOTER FILMS×SHIROGUMI
Website: https://www.scooterfilms.jp/
Director: Tomohiro Kawamura
Comment from director Tomohiro Kawamura:
“‘Who am I?’ ‘Why have I come to this era?’ These questions guide the journey of MIRU, a robot whose destiny forever changes after an encounter with a young pianist. We invite you to enjoy this unique episode, designed as an intriguing ‘Episode 0.’”
Episode 630:
Episode Title: “Re: MIRU”
Animation Production: REIRS
Website: https://www.reirs.co.jp/
Director: Naofumi Mishina
Comment from director Naofumi Mishina:
“During our daily production meetings, the staff exchange ideas about concepts that would visually captivate our audience. Meanwhile, I find myself creating a story about a bleak future. There’s an odd satisfaction in this juxtaposition, and I’m looking forward to the final result.”
Episode 926:
Episode Title: “Wait, I’ll Be There”
Animation Production: LARX×Studio HIBARI
Website: https://www.st-hibari.co.jp/
Director: Saori Nakashiki
Comment from director Saori Nakashiki:
“Greetings, this is Nakashiki, the director of episode 926 of 未ル(Miru). This episode serves as an origin story featuring the energetic girl Airu and the mysterious robotic dog Pochimaru. I hope their journey toward a future full of flowers will leave a lasting impression in your hearts!”
The synopsis on the project’s official website reads:
In the distant future, humans create a robot named MIRU capable of traveling through time, visiting various eras, places, and even parallel worlds. Unlike some robots, MIRU isn’t equipped with weapons. Instead, it helps people overcome immense obstacles peacefully, encouraging new beginnings without violence. MIRU continuously evolves by interacting with people, learning and growing to assist those struggling to survive. It listens to their problems and offers support. By helping others, MIRU sets off a “Butterfly Effect,”* of dramatic change guiding society toward a brighter future. Why was MIRU created? What is its purpose? Can it save the Earth and humanity from a dystopian future?
MIRU: Paths to My Future Opening Theme Trailer
Sources: “MIRU: Paths to My Future” official website, Press release© YANMAR 2024
