Jujutsu Kaisen boss on AI and human emotion
The rise of generative Artificial Intelligence has thrown a fascinating challenge into the world of animation, forcing industry leaders to confront a fundamental question: can a machine truly replace the magic of human creativity?
Manabu Otsuka, the CEO of the acclaimed animation studio MAPPA—known for bringing masterpieces like Chainsaw Man, Attack on Titan, and Jujutsu Kaisen—has weighed in on this technological shift. While acknowledging the power of new digital tools, Otsuka maintains a firm stance: the creative process must remain rooted in human experience.
“Whether it’s digital tools, 3D, or indeed AI – to me, all of these are ultimately tools, and nothing more than tools,” Otsuka stated. He sees AI not as a replacement for artists, but as an enhancement to their workflow.
His perspective emphasizes that the emotional depth and quality that captivate audiences are intrinsically human creations. “Quality that moves people emotionally can only come from human beings – it has to be people who create it. That is my fundamental belief,” he asserted.
For Otsuka, the focus for the studio is on efficiency. Rather than viewing AI as a threat to artistic agency, he is prioritizing how these technologies can make production workflows smoother. The true exploration lies in determining which tools are used, how they are applied, and to what appropriate degree.
The conversation around AI in anime is rapidly evolving, marked by both controversy and cautious adoption. While some projects have faced scrutiny regarding the use of synthesized voices, others demonstrate a growing acceptance of the technology’s potential.
Industry leaders are navigating this new landscape. For instance, Crunchroll’s CEO Rahul Purini has indicated that avoiding AI in anime production is not nearly as difficult as some might imagine, while directors like Toma Kimura have confirmed that generative AI has not been utilized in their major projects.
MAPPA is currently managing a busy schedule, with exciting projects like Chainsaw Man season 2 and Jujutsu Kaisen season 4 in development, continuing to push the boundaries of what animation can achieve.
Ultimately, the future of anime and creative storytelling seems poised to be a blend of human genius and technological innovation, with the emphasis remaining firmly on the irreplaceable spark of human imagination.
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