Studio MAPPA, a dominant force in modern anime, is largely synonymous with mega-hits like "Jujutsu Kaisen" and "Chainsaw Man." However, the studio's legacy, founded in 2011 by Madhouse co-founder Masao Maruyama, began with a vision to be an artistic sanctuary for directors to pursue passion projects. This early ethos continues to influence its output, even as MAPPA achieves mainstream success.
While "Jujutsu Kaisen" season 3 and the "Chainsaw Man – The Movie: Reze Arc" remain highlights, MAPPA's catalog is remarkably diverse. Looking past its blockbuster adaptations reveals a range of historical dramas, subversive parodies, and ambitious original works.
Original Films and Ambitious Adaptations
"Maboroshi," also known as "Alice and Therese's Illusory Factory," exemplifies MAPPA's willingness to take creative risks. Directed by Mari Okada, this 2023 film uses a supernatural premise—a town frozen in time after an industrial disaster—to explore themes of change and grief. Despite not reaching the same audience numbers as its flagship franchises, "Maboroshi" stands as one of MAPPA's most original and ambitious films, echoing the studio's early focus on auteur-driven storytelling.
Another notable adaptation is "Dororo" (2019), based on Osamu Tezuka's manga. This remake was praised for its stylized action and emotional depth, with the story following a young swordsman, Hyakkimaru, on a quest to reclaim his body parts from demons. Helmed by veteran director Kazuhiro Furuhashi, known for his work on "Hunter x Hunter" and "Rurouni Kenshin," "Dororo" demonstrated MAPPA's capability to modernize classic properties while preserving their essence.
"Terror in Resonance" (2014) marked a significant early project, attracting acclaimed director Shinichiro Watanabe. Inspired by political thrillers and atmospheric music, this 11-episode series, though initially facing financial hurdles, follows two teenage terrorists challenging authorities across Tokyo. Despite a divisive narrative, its blend of Watanabe's direction, Yoko Kanno's score, and striking visuals cemented it as a testament to MAPPA's early artistic aspirations.
Genre-Bending Successes
MAPPA also proved its versatility with "Zombie Land Saga" (2018), a series that cleverly blends parody and heartfelt drama. The anime, centered on a group of resurrected girls tasked with saving Japan's Saga Prefecture through idol music, defied expectations with its unique premise. It showcased MAPPA's ability to succeed in comedy, merging horror elements with a lighthearted tone.
Looking ahead, "Zenshu" (2025) is poised to be a celebration of the anime industry itself. This original series follows an animator transported into a fictional animated film, serving as a love letter to the animation production process. The title, translating to "Fix All" or "Complete Revision," reflects an industry term and highlights the studio's own journey and passion for the medium.
"Inuyashiki: Last Hero" (2017), directed by Shuhei Yabuta, is another underrated science-fiction offering. The anime adapts Hiroya Oku's manga about an elderly man who gains superpowers and clashes with a younger recipient of similar abilities. The series explores themes of mortality and human connection, standing as one of MAPPA's bolder and more emotionally resonant works.
Defining Productions
"Banana Fish" (2018) is a testament to MAPPA's talent for character-driven narratives. This adaptation of Akimi Yoshida's crime drama follows gang leader Ash Lynx and photographer Eiji Okumura as they uncover a conspiracy. The series masterfully blends action, tragedy, and romance, delivering an emotionally impactful experience that introduced many to a celebrated manga classic.
Arguably the most transformative project for MAPPA was "Yuri on Ice" (2016). This original figure-skating drama became a global phenomenon, lauded for its portrayal of relationships uncommon in mainstream sports anime. Its success propelled MAPPA to international recognition, with meticulous attention to detail, including authentic sound design and choreography by retired ice dancer Kenji Miyamoto, contributing to its authenticity.
"Dorohedoro" (2019), based on Q Hayashida's manga, was once considered unadaptable due to its unique, grimy art style and chaotic energy. MAPPA successfully captured the source material's blend of horror, dark comedy, and fantasy, creating a visually distinctive and messy-in-the-best-way adaptation that celebrates creative weirdness and MAPPA's willingness to tackle unconventional projects.
"In This Corner of the World" (2016) stands out as one of MAPPA's most poignant films. This critically acclaimed movie portrays the daily life of Suzu during wartime Japan, focusing on her resilience, joy, and struggles amidst hardship. The film's graceful animation and heartfelt narrative offer a rarely seen perspective on World War II, demonstrating MAPPA's early capacity for profound and moving storytelling long before its association with high-octane action series.