Ryu Nakayama, director of the upcoming MAPPA anime Chainsaw Man, revealed that MAPPA is ready to recruit and train new animators instead of relying on freelancers. Nakayama posted an update on his blog explaining the situation. He states that he initially wanted to hire freelancers to work on Chainsaw Man, but after discussing the situation with MAPPA they decided to hire new animators.
The blog post states that they want to create a pleasant working atmosphere, where workers can devote themselves to their work without worrying about pay and employment. The project is currently focused on Chainsaw Man production, but the new hires will also be able to work on future projects. Those who only want to work on one project can still apply as freelancers. Overseas animators can also apply, but only as freelancers since the job is in Ogikubo, Tokyo.
Nakayama’s post explains that the standards will be high, but that the team is ready to offer help and teach.
Recent graduates are welcome to apply, but those who graduate in April 2022 should wait. The training section will be dedicated to those who have little to no experience and only have basic drawing skills. Nakayama says that he hopes new hires stay on as long-term employees.
MAPPA Animator Hiring Process and Perks
The blog post also explains benefits, which include a yearly pay rise, bonus, as well as a commuting fee. Starting salary is around 230,543 yen, but depends on experience. The workers will have 2 days a week off, as well as vacation time and annual paid leave.
CLIP STUDIO PAINT will be the main software used, with Blender and Adobe Animate used for action sequences.
Those who wish to apply can do so by submitting their resume to [email protected] The application should include a portfolio, as well as a Twitter ID. Detailed instructions are available on Ryu Nakayama’s blog.
Studio MAPPA
Earlier this year, MAPPA made headlines after an animator made allegations about low pay and bad working conditions. MAPPA soon published a press release in which they denied the allegations and condemned the information leaks.
Studio MAPPA was founded on June 14th, 2011. In June, they celebrated their 10th anniversary with a special MAPPA Stage event. Over the years, they produced many popular anime titles, some of which are Yuri!!! On Ice, Kakegurui and Jujutsu Kaisen. In 2020, they announced that they would be animating the final season of Attack on Titan anime. Part 2 of the Final Season is airing in Winter 2020.
Chainsaw Man is one of the most-anticipated upcoming MAPPA anime. The first trailer for the anime received over 7 million views in the first 10 hours. The main anime staff consists out of industry veterans, with the aforementioned Ryu Nakayama, who is directing it.
Source: Ryu Nakayama’s Blog
