MAPPA 15th Anniversary: New Video & Tokyo Expo
Anime studio MAPPA celebrates its 15th anniversary this September with significant announcements: a new commemorative music video and a major exhibition in Tokyo. Renowned for its high-quality animation and impactful storytelling, MAPPA continues to captivate fans globally, marking this milestone with special events that highlight its artistic legacy.
Celebrating 15 Years of Animation
MAPPA released a new video Friday, set to “Seikatsu” ("My Life") by the Japanese pop band PEOPLE 1. The video beautifully animates the song's emotions, depicting interconnected lives, shared experiences, and pivotal choices shaping futures. Uniquely, it incorporates elements of the animation production process—like key animation drawings and storyboards—creating a visually rich experience that celebrates both human relationships and the artistry of animation itself. This offers a rare glimpse into the meticulous craft behind MAPPA’s acclaimed works.
Behind the Anniversary Video Production
The anniversary music video was brought to life by a dedicated team. Manabu Ohtsuka oversaw Planning. Akiko Kudou served as Director, Storyboard artist, and Character Designer. Manabu Akita provided Key Art, and Yasugi Narumi expertly handled Animation. Ayako Suenaga managed Color Key Artist and Color Setting. Nanoka Shirai created Backgrounds. Kenta Fujita (Compositing Director of Photography) and Ken Fujitani (Photography) ensured visual cohesion. Yūsuke Sunouchi finalized the piece through Editing, resulting in a memorable artistic creation.
MAPPA EXPO 15th Anniversary in Tokyo
A major celebration highlight is the MAPPA EXPO 15th Anniversary exhibition. This anticipated event will showcase pieces from MAPPA’s most iconic and upcoming projects, including Chainsaw Man – The Movie: Reze Arc, Attack on Titan The Final Season, and Jujutsu Kaisen, plus other beloved series. It offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the intricate artistry and production details behind these global phenomena.
The MAPPA EXPO runs at the Yurakucho Museum in Tokyo from September 16 to December 7. This extended duration allows numerous fans to experience the studio’s legacy. While ticket prices are not yet announced, the exhibition promises a deep dive into the creative genius that has defined MAPPA for fifteen years, making it a must-visit for anime enthusiasts.
PEOPLE 1's Creative Partnership
The collaboration with PEOPLE 1 for the anniversary video reinforces a strong partnership. PEOPLE 1 previously contributed "DOGLAND," the ending theme for the Chainsaw Man anime. MAPPA also animated a music video for "Like the Flatwoods Monster" ("Flatwoods Monster Mitai ni"), featuring Eve and PEOPLE 1 vocalist/bass guitarist Deu. These repeated collaborations highlight a shared artistic vision and successful fusion of music and animation, enriching audience experience.
Looking Ahead with MAPPA
As MAPPA celebrates its 15th anniversary, these events affirm its enduring impact and commitment to innovation. From stunning action to rich narratives, MAPPA consistently delivers high-quality content. Fans worldwide eagerly await future projects and continue to celebrate the studio's remarkable journey and contributions to animation. These celebrations honor a studio that has truly shaped the modern anime landscape.
