The art of producing anime sequels is full of challenges, especially when it comes to series that have achieved great success. One Punch Man is a striking example of this dynamic.
Its first season, released in 2015, was a phenomenon, while the second, despite being highly anticipated, did not reach the same level of acclaim. With the third season confirmed, a crucial question arises among fans: who will be responsible for its animation?
One Punch Man began its television journey under the auspices of Madhouse, with Shingo Natsume directing, known for works such as Space Dandy. This collaboration resulted in a first season that stood out for its creativity and execution.
The second season, however, had a significant change, passing into the hands of JC Staff, directed by Chikara Sakurai. This transition sparked heated debates about the importance of the creative team in the quality of an anime series.
Waiting for the Third Season
The announcement of the third season in 2022 generated great anticipation, but it also left many questions unanswered, mainly about who would be tasked with bringing the new season to life.
The experience with changing staff between the first and second seasons taught fans how much the choice of creative team can impact the narrative and execution of an anime.
The first season of One Punch Man stood out not only for the studio, but for the synergy between renowned animators and Natsume’s vision. This collaboration transcended the studio’s identity, creating a milestone in the world of anime.
This demonstrates that, although the studio is important, it is the people behind the scenes that really make the difference. The second season, despite its efforts, failed to capture the same magic, perhaps due to the change in animation team.
The Ideal Studio Dilemma
The MAPPA Option: Capabilities and Challenges
Studio MAPPA comes up frequently in discussions about potential candidates for season three.
Known for its productive capacity and great successes, MAPPA is, however, facing criticism regarding working conditions. Despite this, they have demonstrated the ability to allocate resources appropriately to high-expectation projects.
Another popular choice among fans is Studio Bones, famous for series like Fullmetal Alchemist and My Hero Academia. They have already proven their competence with works by ONE, such as Mob Psycho 100.
Bones’ experience and talent, particularly with Yuzuru Tachikawa, who directed Mob Psycho, make him a strong candidate.
Considering the legacy, Madhouse is also a strong competitor. Despite changes over the years, they continue to produce quality anime, and Shingo Natsume’s return to the studio could be a key factor in reviving the success of the first season.
A Bold Idea: Yusuke Murata in Command
A more audacious proposal would be to entrust the animation to the manga artist himself, Yusuke Murata. Known for his exceptional skill in both illustration and animation, Murata could bring a new dimension to the series.
Although it seems like a far-off idea, given the scale of the project and Murata’s current commitments, his direct participation could be a watershed moment for the series.
Conclusion: A Crucial Decision
Whatever the studio chooses, it’s clear that One Punch Man season three requires a talented and passionate team capable of honoring the series’ legacy and satisfying fans’ high expectations. The final decision will undoubtedly be decisive for the future and continued success of this beloved anime series.
Read more: Everything we know about One Punch Man season three
