Jujutsu Kaisen, a name that resonates with anime enthusiasts globally, has been a beacon of success and creativity in the anime world. With its enthralling plot and captivating animations, it has managed to weave a spell around its audience, especially in its latest season. However, behind the vibrant and dynamic animations lies a stark contrast: a dark, tumultuous work environment that has recently been brought to light by the very creators of this magical world.
A Glimpse into the Animators’ Struggle
In a world where social media becomes a platform for unfiltered truths, several animators from the acclaimed MAPPA Studio have voiced their struggles, painting a grim picture of what happens behind the closed doors of anime creation. Despite the studio basking in the glory of “Jujutsu Kaisen Season 2,” the animators, bound by their NDAs, have subtly yet boldly highlighted the appalling conditions they are subjected to.
“Silencing the staff from talking about how atrocious the work conditions are is comically evil… I will not compromise my health for work that won’t even cover all of my rent, let alone any other expenses.”
The Silent Outcry
The animators, despite the looming threat of legal actions and being blacklisted, have chosen to break their silence, indicating a situation so dire that they are willing to risk their careers to bring it to light.
“I have nothing to lose, so if you’re going to sue me for complaining, I’ll take it!”
In another instance, an animator advised against joining the studio for those who wish to give their best, revealing that while the studio offers opportunities and notable works, the chaos and unfavorable conditions make it a less than ideal place for passionate creators.
Fans Rally in Support
The revelations have not fallen on deaf ears. Fans of the anime, upon learning about the struggles of the animators, have rallied in support, with one of the tweets garnering over 3.2 million views. The issue has sparked discussions and debates among the anime community, bringing to the forefront the often-overlooked struggles of the creators behind beloved anime series.
TOJI FUSHIGURO IS BACK pic.twitter.com/6Sy0qB36hB
— Jujutsu Kaisen (@JJKcontents) October 5, 2023
MAPPA’s Ambitious Undertakings
MAPPA, renowned for its multiple simultaneous projects like “Hell’s Paradise,” “Chainsaw Man,” “Attack On Titan,” “Vinland Saga,” and of course, “Jujutsu Kaisen,” is known to bite off more than it can chew, especially when compared to other major studios like J.C. Staff and Madhouse. With rumors of the studio potentially taking on season 3 of “One Punch Man,” concerns regarding the work environment and the well-being of the animators have become even more pertinent.
Conclusion: A Call for Change
The stark contrast between the enchanting worlds created by MAPPA and the dark reality faced by its animators is a call for change. The anime industry, while celebrated for its incredible output, needs to reflect on the sustainability and ethics of its internal workings. The voices of the animators, who bring these beloved characters and stories to life, must not be silenced but rather be the catalyst for transformation within the industry.
In a world that voraciously consumes content, it is imperative to remember that behind every character, every scene, and every episode, there are real people, with real struggles, and they deserve to be heard, respected, and treated with dignity.
