The Vermilion Mask has released its non-credit opening and ending videos following the anime’s television premiere on October 10, 2026. The opening features “Firestarter” by rock band MAN WITH A MISSION, while Japanese band yutori performs the ending theme “Koe.” Both videos highlight the fantasy series’ central themes of guilt, painful memories, friendship, and the struggle to overcome a cruel fate.
The opening sequence follows protagonist Peru d’Arrest and his companions, Sonarue Maywood and Mok Sharib, as they travel across the world to destroy the masks created by Peru’s late master. It also offers glimpses of the traumatic experiences that shape the three characters.
Meanwhile, the ending video takes a more emotional approach, focusing on the loneliness and suffering the group carries while continuing their journey together. The anime airs every Saturday at 2:30 a.m. Pacific Time on Crunchyroll.
MAN WITH A MISSION’S “FIRESTARTER” HIGHLIGHTS THE TRIO’S PAST
The non-credit opening video combines scenes of the trio traveling together with disturbing images connected to their pasts. Peru, Sonarue, and Mok are shown sharing everyday moments during their journey, including traveling by train and walking through desolate landscapes, before the visuals shift toward memories of violence and personal trauma.
MAN WITH A MISSION described “Firestarter” as a powerful song intended to encourage young characters burdened by a cruel fate. Its energetic sound accompanies the anime’s action and reinforces the determination driving Peru’s mission.
YUTORI’S “KOE” FOCUSES ON THE CHARACTERS’ EMOTIONAL STRUGGLES
The ending video takes a more reflective approach, focusing on the pain and loneliness that Peru and his companions continue to carry. Despite their difficult pasts, the three characters move forward together, suggesting that their growing bond will be important as the story progresses.
The title “Koe” translates to “voice.” The band yutori explained that the song explores how people cannot erase their past but can continue living while carrying its weight. The ending uses Kotoko Sato’s vocals to convey emotions that the characters struggle to express openly.
Based on the manga by Nabana Naba and original work by Dr. Poro, The Vermilion Mask follows Peru, a student of legendary mask maker Gaston Roux. After being controlled by the Mask of the Warrior God and unintentionally killing his friends and master, Peru vows to destroy the dangerous masks scattered across the world.
The anime is directed by Tetsuaki Watanabe, with animation production by One Double-O studio. Manga volumes 1–9 are currently available.
