The highly anticipated sequel to the figure skating anime, Medalist, is officially moving to the big screen! Fans worldwide can mark their calendars for February 19, 2027, as the Medalist anime film adaptation is set to premiere in Japanese theaters. This exciting news was unveiled during the "Medalist Special Exhibition 2026" event, which brought a full staff reveal, a captivating second teaser visual, and a special trailer hinting at dazzling ice-skating spectacles to come.
A New Chapter on Ice: The Medalist Film Sequel
The Medalist journey continues, promising to bring the beloved sports drama to a grand cinematic scale. Following two successful television anime seasons in Winter 2025 and Winter 2026, the film format underscores the series' growing popularity and deep storytelling. This announcement ignites enthusiasm among fans eager to see the next evolution of its inspiring narrative and visually stunning figure skating.
Behind the Scenes: A Stellar Production Team
The film boasts an impressive roster of talent. Director Yasutaka Yamamoto (Noblesse) leads the project. Screenplay writer Jukki Hanada (Boku no Kokoro no Yabai Yatsu) will pen the intricate narrative.
Chinatsu Kameyama (Isekai wa Smartphone to Tomo ni. 2) handles Character Design and Chief Animation Director. Figure Skating Choreography will be by Suzuki Akiko (Doraemon photography).
The technical brilliance for figure skating is supported by a dedicated 3DCG team. Koji serves as Figure Skating Director and 3DCG Director. Takayuki Toda ([Oshi no Ko] 2nd Season art design assistant) is 3DCG Visual Director. Shoutarou Hori (Keikenzumi na Kimi to, Keiken Zero na Ore ga, Otsukiai suru Hanashi.) is 3DCG Animation Supervisor, and Kyouka Hagiwara joins as a NEW 3DCG Producer.
Visual artistry extends to Color Design by Aiko Yamagami (Dosanko Gal wa Namara Menkoi) and Art Director Hazuki Nakamura. NEW Directors of Photography Ibuki Kunimasa and Asuka Saitou, alongside Editor Tomoki Nagasaka (Dance Dance Danseur), enhance cinematic quality. Music from the renowned Yuuki Hayashi (Haikyuu!!) promises an inspiring soundtrack. Sound direction is by Yuuichi Imaizumi (Kubo-san wa Mob wo Goranai), with Sound Effects by Kenji Koyama (MF Ghost). Animation Producer Takasumi Miura oversees production by Studio ENGI. ANIMEC NEW handles distribution.
The Medalist Journey: From Manga to Screen
The Medalist saga originates from Tsurumaikada's drama sports manga, debuting in Afternoon magazine in May 2020. It quickly garnered a dedicated following for its compelling story of determination, mentorship, and the relentless pursuit of dreams. Kodansha continues publishing, with the 15th volume released on July 22. Kodansha USA licensed the manga in English in March 2021, making the inspiring narrative accessible globally. The 14th digital volume was released on May 12.
The anime adaptation, produced by studio ENGI, successfully translated the manga's charm and intensity. Disney+ streamed both seasons worldwide, with Hulu handling the U.S. release and an English dub. This global presence sets a strong foundation for the film.
Anticipation for the Big Screen Spectacle
With a confirmed release date, new visual, and special trailer, the Medalist anime film sequel is poised to be a cinematic event for sports anime enthusiasts. The robust and experienced staff, coupled with the proven success of the original manga and its adaptation, promises a film that will exceed expectations. Get ready to witness the next thrilling chapter of Medalist in Japanese theaters in 2027, inspiring and dazzling with its heartwarming tale of ambition and artistry on ice.
