The acclaimed dark fantasy action manga, The Vermilion Mask (Japanese: Shuiro no Kamen), is officially receiving an anime adaptation. The announcement was made by Yomiuri TV at its industry panel during Anime Expo 2025, thrilling fans of the popular series. While a specific release date and format (TV series or film) have yet to be disclosed, a subtitled teaser visual and promotional video have been unveiled, offering a first glimpse into the animated world of cursed masks and a journey for redemption.
From Page to Screen: The Genesis of the Anime
The Vermilion Mask originates from the creative minds of Dr. Poro, who provides the original story, and Nabana Naba, who illustrates the manga. The manga has been serialized in Shonengahosha’s Young King OURS magazine since February 2021, and as of July 2025, it spans seven compiled volumes, with the eighth volume slated for release on July 7, 2025. Its compelling narrative and intense action sequences have garnered a dedicated readership, making the transition to animation a highly anticipated event.
Both original creator Dr. Poro and manga artist Nabana Naba have expressed their gratitude for the anime adaptation, acknowledging the support of their readers. They have also been directly involved in the anime’s story development and scripting from the early stages, ensuring a faithful and engaging adaptation for both long-time fans and newcomers.
Unmasking the Plot: A Tale of Guilt and Redemption
The central premise of The Vermilion Mask revolves around powerful, often tragic, masks that grant extraordinary abilities to their wearers, though sometimes with calamitous consequences. The story introduces Peru, a young apprentice mask maker whose life takes a dark turn when he loses control under the influence of a cursed artifact known as the “Mask of the Warrior God”. In a frenzied state, he tragically slays his master and comrades.
Wracked with unimaginable guilt, Peru embarks on a perilous journey of atonement, determined to destroy every legendary mask crafted by his late master, which are now scattered across the world. This quest leads him to encounter a diverse cast of characters, forming alliances and clashing with formidable foes in what promises to be a gripping battle for both his soul and the fate of the world. The narrative is characterized by its dark, emotional depth, and action-packed sequences, exploring themes of inner conflict and the weight of sin.
The Creative Team Behind the Adaptation
The anime adaptation of The Vermilion Mask is being produced by 100studio, a global animation label under Wondible Studio. The production boasts an impressive creative team, bringing together seasoned talent from various successful anime projects:
Key Staff
- Director: Tetsuaki Watanabe, known for his work on Blue Lock Season 1, takes the helm as director. Watanabe expressed his long-standing admiration for the manga and his determination to bring it to life as an anime, having personally pitched the idea to 100studio.
- Assistant Director: Gai Hazako assists in the directorial role.
- Series Composition: Daisuke Ohigashi, also known as Daisuke Daito, who contributed to Fate/strange Fake, is in charge of the series composition.
- Character Design & Chief Animation Director: Hisashi Higashijima, recognized for his work on Mashle: Magic and Muscles, handles the character designs and serves as chief animation director.
- Music: Arisa Okehazama, whose compositions have graced series like Jujutsu Kaisen and The Apothecary Diaries, is composing the music for the anime.
- Sound Director: Fumiyuki Goh, known for Kaiju No. 8 and Overlord, is the sound director.
- Story Supervision: The original creators, Dr. Poro and Nabana Naba, are credited with story supervision, underscoring their direct involvement in the anime’s narrative development.
The collective expertise of this team aims to deliver an anime that captures the intense action, emotional depth, and unique world-building that have made The Vermilion Mask a beloved manga series. Fans eagerly await further updates on the anime’s premiere and its journey to screens worldwide.
