Following complaints from fans of Jujutsu Kaisen on X, Hokuto Sadamoto, an animator from MAPPA studio, issued an apology for the quality of the latest episode. However, numerous fans have taken it upon themselves to defend Sadamoto and attribute the issues to the unfavorable working conditions at MAPPA. Initially, Sadamoto had intended to remain anonymous and not be credited as an animator for Season 2, Episode 14. Unfortunately, a leak disclosed his involvement, resulting in fans criticizing his work on the episode. Subsequently, Sadamoto posted his apology on X (formerly Twitter) shortly after the episode aired on Thursday. In the translated tweet, he expressed, "I have completed a task that remains unappreciated, and I anticipate this to persist. I apologize. While I was angered by the leak, I must admit that my initial attempt to evade recognition was an act of cowardice. I am truly sorry."
MAPPA's Working Conditions in the Anime Industry
During an interview on X, Sadamoto revealed the daunting task of completing 250 animation cuts for the episode within a mere two weeks. This tremendous workload presents a significant challenge for any animator, even one with professional experience. Unfortunately, this incident is just one in a series of instances highlighting the mistreatment of employees within the animation industry, with MAPPA being no exception. Notably, the studio has previously faced similar allegations regarding the working conditions of animators involved in Attack on Titan. Although the initial criticism was aimed at Sadamoto, many individuals on X have come forward to defend the animator and the rest of the JJK animation team. Furthermore, they are demanding accountability from MAPPA for imposing such an overwhelming workload on their employees.
Jujutsu Kaisen, along with Attack on Titan, is one of MAPPA's biggest successes. The first season of this manga-inspired series, created by Gege Akutami, aired from Oct. 3, 2020 to March 27, 2021. It revolves around the story of Yuji Itadori, a regular high school student who becomes a Jujutsu Sorcerer after a series of events leads him to become the host of the dangerous cursed spirit known as Ryomen Sukuna.
The anime quickly gained a devoted following within the anime community, and its popularity soared even higher with the release of Jujutsu Kaisen 0, a movie that serves as a prequel to the events of Season 1. Jujutsu Kaisen 0 tells the story of Yuta Okkotsu, a child haunted by the cursed spirit of his deceased childhood friend, Rika Orimoto, who tragically died in a car accident. As for the main Jujutsu Kaisen anime series, its highly anticipated second season premiered on Aug. 31, 2023, with new episodes airing every Thursday.
Jujutsu Kaisen is currently streaming on Crunchyroll.
Sources: X (formerly Twitter), IGN India