Ep. 079「Stardust Memory」｜未ル(Miru): Paths To My Future Official Website

EPISODE 079

Ep. 079「Stardust Memory」

Episode 079 Stardust Memory Animation Production LinQ

SYNOPSIS

Yoshimura, a space janitor who has spent 10 years collecting space debris is urged to retire by his boss, due to advances in AI technology. His replacement is a young pilot named Umi. While Umi takes her training seriously, Yoshimura remains unmotivated. However, the two soon find themselves facing a critical emergency.

PLAY MOVIE

Synopsis PV: Episode 079

CHARACTERS

Yoshimura

CV Koichi Yamadera

A long-time pilot of a space debris collection vessel.
He carries the painful memory of losing his daughter in a space debris collision.
Umi Nagahama

CV Saori Hayami

A newly assigned co-pilot on the space debris collection vessel, working under Yoshimura.

STAFF&CAST

Animation Production: LinQ

STAFF

Director: Norio Kashima
Screenplay: Yasushi Hirano
CG Director: Tatsuya Kouno
Character Design: smakidori
Character Supervisor: Yuta Hatayama
Mechanical Designer: Kenji Teraoka
Director of Photography: Maki Ueda
Music Producer: Yukio Nagasaki
Music Producer: Tomonobu Kikuchi
Music Production: RightTracks Inc./
Beatrick
Music: Kenji Katoh

CAST

Yoshimura: Koichi
Yamadera
Umi Nagahama: Saori Hayami
SDK/Kanon: Mariya Ise
Sanders: Yoshitsugu
Matsuoka
Jackson: Tsuyoshi
Koyama
MR. ONION: Kenichi Ogata
Narrator: Mari Yokoo

Executive Producer : Masuo Ueda

When I heard that Yanmar was making an anime, I was shocked. It was like being hit on the head with a hammer. And a robot anime at that!? And it doesn’t even have weapons? A non-combat, weaponless robot?

I started my anime career with Mobile Suit Gundam and never imagined that at this age, I'd be working on another robot anime.

However, as I learned more, I became fascinated by the project's challenging nature and the team's enthusiasm. Now, I am deeply engrossed in it. This might be my last major project in my anime career, and I am incredibly happy to be part of this exciting endeavor.

Masuo Ueda

Chief Branding Officer (CBO),
Yanmar Holdings Co., Ltd. : Akihiro Nagaya

Anime is a medium that creates an immersive story and universe, it can also reflect Yanmar's future vision. The narrative themes—the relationship between humans and machines, coexistence with nature, and characters growing through believing in their potential—align fundamentally with Yanmar's "HANASAKA" values and our driving force of "WAKUWAKU" (excitement and passion).
We aim to create a unique worldview where the fictional anime universe and our real world influence each other. This is our ambitious project, brought to life through Japan's renowned anime artistry.
We hope that Yanmar's "WAKUWAKU" spirit resonates with viewers of this anime, inspiring powerful steps toward creating a more prosperous society.

Akihiro Nagaya

Composer : Noriyasu Agematsu （Elements Garden）

As both a musician and an anime creator, I was deeply moved by Yanmar's vision to convey hope for the future to the world through anime. The journey of how a company specializing in construction and agricultural machinery ventured into robot anime production was so inventive and full of a spirit of challenge, and it made me decide to accept the offer, thinking, "If there’s any way I can contribute, I want to help." When composing this piece, I carefully considered how to express the world of 未ル(Miru): Paths To My Future and create music that would deeply connect with V.W.P's young and dedicated fans. Lyricist Hibiki has crafted each word with precision, viewing young people's struggles not just as personal challenges but as part of a cosmic narrative, while still grounding them in everyday reality. I sincerely hope that this anime becomes a source of solace for people all around the world.

Noriyasu Agematsu

Producer : Akihiro Tomita

未ル(Miru): Paths To My Future feels like a "mythology for a new era" offering both imaginative and realistic challenges for today’s younger generation as they navigate the present and shape the future. While it was certainly a pleasure to be in charge of the theme song for such an outstanding anime work, I feel honored to have worked on its production alongside Noriyasu Agematsu and Yusuke Takeda from Elements Garden, and to collaborate with the wonderful members of V.W.P. I hope everyone will enjoy the series along with the theme song, "AI=UTA."

Akihiro Tomita

Girl in Prologue : Maaya Sakamoto

When I first heard about this project, I was shocked—Yanmar is creating an anime?! At the same time, I felt a growing excitement, thinking this could become something entirely new, unlike anything we've seen before.I feel that the story carries a powerful message: the future we create depends on the choices we make. I truly hope many people will enjoy this unique and inspiring work.

Director : Norio Kashima

We invite you to join Yoshimura, a debris collection pilot, on his journey through grief as a parent. This story illustrates the Butterfly Effect, demonstrating how even minor factors—such as the presence of space debris— can trigger a devastating chain reaction, leading to the loss of Yoshimura's daughter, a young space pilot. 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.

as Yoshimura : Koichi Yamadera

"An aging debris collection pilot forced into retirement by AI"—this role is an absolute challenge for me, both in terms of its setting and the character’s age! I was really moved by the true reason behind his desperation to hold onto his job, despite being labeled an "old fogey." Having the chance to read not just the anime script but also the earlier-stage scenario really deepened my understanding of the story. I also felt incredibly lucky that the entire voice cast could gather and record together. I was especially inspired by Saori Hayami’s incredible performance as Umi.

A truly fitting first episode for this captivating anthology series—don’t miss it!

as Umi Nagahama : Saori Hayami

Umi is a lively and straightforward girl who speaks her mind, even to those older than her. At first glance, she seems blunt, but she actually has a strong sense of empathy and consideration for others. The dialogue had a great rhythm, making the recording sessions a lot of fun.

未ル(Miru) is an anthology series that explores a single world through various perspectives and expressions. I hope you enjoy its unique storytelling!

as SDK/Kanon : Mariya Ise

I had the honor of playing both Kanon, the daughter of Yoshimura voiced by Koichi Yamadera, and SDK, the AI voice system. Kanon is the person who set Yoshimura on his path as a space debris collector. Although my scenes were brief, I poured my heart into the performance.

I’m grateful to have been part of Yanmar’s beautifully envisioned project. I can’t wait to see how the final product turns out, and I truly hope many people will watch and enjoy it!

as Sanders : Yoshitsugu Matsuoka

Sanders is a remarkably straightforward boy, always pushing forward in search of excitement. However, an event from his past has shaped his identity in a profound way. While he’s bright and cheerful, there’s more to him than meets the eye. The contrast between his lively nature and the weight of his past made this role particularly challenging to portray.

This story offers glimpses into many different lives, making you reflect on the meaning of a "hero." Is a hero someone who stands for individuals, or someone who stands for the world? Please watch and decide for yourself.

as Jackson : Tsuyoshi Koyama

Jackson is a superior who has to inform his subordinates of their layoffs. While he harbors genuine care for them, he must deliver the news with cold finality. Capturing that emotional complexity was a real challenge. However, getting to act alongside my senior colleague Koichi Yamadera was an incredible honor—it was truly an unforgettable moment.

With the amazing performances of Koichi Yamadera, Saori Hayami, and the rest of the cast, this is a show you won’t want to miss!

as MR. ONION : Kenichi Ogata

I used to voice a red robot, but this time, I got to play MR.ONION, an adorable yellow robot. In 未ル(Miru)’s world, machines handle everything, leaving humans with nothing to do. The captain, for instance, spends his days drinking and is constantly hungover. As a cleaner, MR. ONION is responsible for tidying up all the empty bottles and cans. But sometimes, he speaks up with a little sass—“Drinking yourself into oblivion again, huh?”

I hope this story inspires people to become the kind of individuals who can help shape a better future.

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.

as Mario Vasco Debritto : Tomohiro Ono

I'm Tomohiro Ono, and I'll be voicing Mario Vasco Debritto. Mario lives his life very straightforwardly, and I think his overflowing energy and brightness are his charms. But at times, we see a part of him that struggles, thinks, and is just an average boy. He's a really lovable character that you can easily relate to. I was very nervous about how well I could express his charm and delicate feelings.

This work is filled with many emotions. I'd be happy if I could convey even a little bit of those precious feelings to everyone. I hope many people will see it, and that it can give a boost to the future of those who do. May it resonate with everyone's hearts. Please look forward to the broadcast!

as Mario's Grandpa : Junpei Morita

Mario's grandfather is an important figure to Mario, serving as a pillar of support for the protagonist. Because of this, he has many wise things to say, so I was careful not to make him seem pretentious, but rather to bring out his warm humanity.

With global warming progressing, the importance of valuing nature is being emphasized. I would be happy if, through this film, viewers could feel and understand these things.

as Mario's Dad : Yasuyuki Kase

The role of Mario's Dad had a modern, active impression. Since Mr. Morita was playing the role of the grandfather, I was able to play his son with peace of mind.

This film makes us think about what each individual can do and what they should do for the future. Please enjoy it.

as Clara : Honoka Kuroki

Clara has both a dependable side and a playful charm, and I thought she was a very lovely older sister. She has pride in her forest conservation activities and is someone who has built a career within the RFP, so while keeping that dependability in mind, I also made sure not to lose the childlike innocence and the sparkle in her eyes... In the scenes where she is explaining the RFP, I hope that her confident and lively expression is conveyed to the audience.

"未ル(Miru): Paths To My Future" is a work that makes you feel the power to move towards the future you aim for. I hope that through the passion of Mario and Clara, it will be an opportunity for people to think about what they can do and what they want to do.

as Young Mario : Anna Nagase

Young Mario is overflowing with dreams and hope, and I think he's a character who is curious about everything and takes action proactively. Even if he doesn't understand the environmental problems in detail, he tries to go meet the "Guardian of the Forest King," thinks about environmental protection, and I felt it was wonderful that he tries to have a positive relationship with nature.

The future can be created by our own hands. This film makes us think about that once again. I would like many people to see it. Thank you very much.

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."

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.

Director : Saori Nakashiki

Greetings, this is Nakashiki, the director of episode 926 of 未ル(Miru): Paths To My Future. 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!

Artist : V.W.P

【KAF】
"愛詩 (AI=UTA)" is a song that evokes the beauty of the earth and sacred colors, striking the heart with its depth. How will people build relationships with the robot, MIRU? What paths will they choose? And how will our song intertwine with the story? I can’t wait to see how it all unfolds when the anime airs!

【RIM】
Hello, I’m RIM from V.W.P! "愛詩 (AI=UTA)" is a song filled with the hope that "we create our own future." It carries the strength to overcome hardships and move forward with positivity. I especially hope this song and anime reach those who may be facing challenges right now. Just like in the real world and the anime, we may exist in different timelines. But I hope that—even across these different worlds—we can be a presence that gently stays by your side.

【Isekaijoucho】
I’m Isekaijoucho from V.W.P, and I had the honor of singing "愛詩 (AI=UTA)." This song begins with a sacred melody and unfolds with a soft expansiveness, as if embodying the birth of life itself. While singing, I felt as though I was being guided by the music, soaring endlessly with a sense of exhilaration. I want to witness what lies ahead for as long as I can. And I believe "未ル(Miru)" will be there to support us as we live in this very moment.

【Harusaruhi】
I'm Harusaruhi. Since this anime will be told in an anthology format, I’m beyond excited to see how each unique story comes to life. With that same excitement and a heart full of hope, the five of us came together to sing "愛詩 (AI=UTA)." It’s a song that stirs the heart, carrying a vast sense of scale that takes you on a journey to many places. I hope you’ll enjoy it alongside the anime!

【KOKO】
I’m KOKO from V.W.P, and I had the privilege of singing "愛詩 (AI=UTA)." From the very first notes, the song carries a grand harmony, with phrases that feel almost like a prayer. As I sang, I held onto the hope that this song might bring comfort to someone out there. The chorus builds with momentum, carrying lyrics about taking life one step at a time. I hope this song can be a source of encouragement for you, and that together with the anime, it brings even more depth and color to the story.

Artist : MIYAVI

Yanmar's heartfelt passion in stating: "We want to create opportunities to inspire excitement about the future together with the next generation," really inspired me to take on the challenge of creating the song "Find A Way." This track serves as the ending theme for the anime 未ル(Miru): Paths To My Future, which connects the world of anime and reality. It also represents an ambitious project to reimagine the iconic “The Yanboh & Marboh Song” that I grew up hearing as a child in Osaka. As a musician, I feel deeply honored to be part of this project.

By working together with others, we can discover unseen possibilities and pave new paths.

As a solo artist, I sometimes feel a sense of envy when I see young musicians performing and enjoying their creative journeys with bands and friends. However, I realize that even as a solo artist, I rely heavily on the support of many people to bring a live performance to life—my manager, fellow performers, stage directors, and other staff. There are things you can't achieve alone, but when you have a team or companions, you can accomplish much more. I believe that by continuing to take on challenges, our actions can contribute to a brighter future—and that we can continue to bloom and thrive through these efforts. The characters in the anime deeply resonate with the core message of this song in that they face inner conflicts but ultimately find companions, help each other, and push forward toward the future. If this work inspires even one person to take a new step toward their future, there could be no greater joy for me as a creator.

未ル(Miru): Paths To My Future