‘My Melody & Kuromi,’ Netflix’s Sweetest Stop-Motion Frenemy Tale Premieres July 24

Get ready to be charmed (and maybe emotionally wrecked) by two of Sanrio’s most iconic characters as they star in their very own animated adventure. My Melody & Kuromi, a Japanese stop-motion animation series, premieres July 24 on Netflix, and it’s set to be the sweetest (and sassiest) treat of the summer.

Directed by Tomoki Misato (Pui Pui Molcar) and written by Shuko Nemoto, this delightfully detailed series follows two painfully cute frenemies — one a cheerful baker, the other a feisty candy maker — who must put their rivalry aside to save their charming hometown, Mariland, before it’s too late.

What’s My Melody & Kuromi About?

In the magical town of Mariland, My Melody runs a bustling cake shop alongside her friends Piano and Flat. Her desserts are legendary, and customers line up daily to get a taste. Just down the street, however, Kuromi stews in frustration as her candy shop stands empty — her sweets are bold, her flair unmatched, but she just can’t seem to outshine her pink-eared rival.

Their rivalry reaches its peak when a sweets-making contest is announced, to be judged by none other than the world-famous pastry chef Pistachio, who is secretly the Prince of the Kingdom of the Clouds in disguise. But just as competition heats up, an unexpected crisis threatens the entire town of Mariland. Now, can these frenemies become allies to save everything they both love?

Meet the Characters

• My Melody (voiced by Rei Sakuma): Sweet, kind, and wildly talented with a piping bag. She runs a cake shop with her friends.

• Kuromi (voiced by Junko Takeuchi): Spunky and competitive, Kuromi is determined to beat her rival and prove her candy shop’s worth.

• Pistachio (Kenji Nojima): A disguised royal turned celebrity pastry chef who brings more to Mariland than just fancy flair.

• Piano (Junko Takeuchi): My Melody’s quiet, gentle friend.

• Flat (Megumi Han): A loyal helper at the cake shop.

• Tanba (Taku Yashiro) and Sasage (Gakuto Kajiwara): Two cupcake assistants from the Kingdom of the Clouds.

A World of Sweet Rivalry and Heartfelt Unity

While My Melody & Kuromi is undeniably adorable, it’s also a heartwarming story about friendship, forgiveness, and growing beyond jealousy. With stunning stop-motion visuals, intricate dessert designs, and lovable characters, the show appeals to kids and nostalgic fans alike.

The Soundtrack: “Kawaii” by LE SSERAFIM

The theme song, “Kawaii (Prod. Gen Hoshino)” by K-pop girl group LE SSERAFIM, adds even more magic to the series. With playful lyrics and a dreamy vibe, it’s the perfect musical companion to the show’s whimsical world.

Welcome to Mariland

The story unfolds in Mariland, a fictional town that blends cozy cottagecore aesthetics with candy-colored fantasy. It’s a place where cupcakes and dreams rise together — and where two rivals just might learn to work as a team.

Based on Iconic Sanrio Characters

This is not the first time we’ve seen these characters, but it might be the most magical. My Melody, who first debuted in 1975, celebrates her 50th anniversary this year, while Kuromi, introduced in 2005 as her edgy rival, marks her 20th. Together, they represent two sides of the same sweet coin — and fans are ready to see them shine on-screen.

Don’t Miss It

My Melody & Kuromi premieres July 24 only on Netflix. Whether you’re here for the pastries, the pastel rivalries, or just to see Kuromi sass her way into a team-up, one thing’s for sure — this is one dessert you won’t want to miss.

Mark your calendars, Sanrio fans — it’s about to get irresistibly cute.

Images courtesy of Netflix