"Jujutsu Kaisen" Producer MAPPA Ventures into Live-Action Film Industry

MAPPA studio is making its way into the world of live-action films and series. The renowned Japanese company is known for popular productions like "Jujutsu Kaisen," "Attack on Titan," and "Chainsaw Man." By signing a new partnership agreement, MAPPA is taking surprising steps into the live-action industry.

According to Japanese sources, MAPPA has collaborated with K2 Pictures to support the production of a live-action film aimed at the global market. This collaboration involves renowned Japanese directors such as Hirokazu Kore-eda, Shunji Iwai, Kazuya Shiraishi, Miwa Nishikawa, and Takashi Miike. The goal is to bring a new breath of life to the Japanese film industry.

Founded in August 2023 by film producer Muneyuki Kii, K2 Pictures aims to "create a new ecosystem for Japanese films, break the industry's stagnation, fairly distribute profits to directors, increase film funding, and open doors to new investors domestically and internationally." MAPPA stated that they joined this project to "support K2 Pictures in their challenges and contribute to film production as an animation studio."

MAPPA's foray into live-action film production reflects the words of its CEO Manabu Otsuka, who stated that the studio should not limit itself to animation alone. Recently, MAPPA has also ventured into copyright and event management areas.

MAPPA's Entry into the Live-Action Film Industry Sparks Change Demands in the Japanese Cinema Sector

These issues affect not only the Japanese film industry but also the world of anime. Makoto Kimura, former board member of MAPPA and producer of "Chainsaw Man," pointed out that most studios lack the technical knowledge to secure funding. His new company, BLUE RIGHTS, aims to ensure fair compensation for anime creators and protect copyright.

The recent involvement of Hirokazu Kore-eda, who made waves with his film "Monster," in K2 Pictures recalls the appeal he made with Takashi Yamazaki, director of "Godzilla Minus One," to the Japanese Prime Minister. The duo called for increased investment from both the public and private sectors, a review of existing profit structures, and the prevention of potential contract exploitation.

MAPPA's entry into the live-action film industry signals winds of change in the Japanese animation and film world. It is expected that in the future, these two areas will merge more closely with innovative projects.