Overview of Toei Animation’s AI Integration
- Toei Animation is exploring AI technology for tasks like storyboard creation and background generation.
- Criticism of AI’s use in animation has come from notable figures, including director Megumi Ishitani.
- While AI could enhance efficiency, fans are apprehensive about it replicating unique artistic styles.
Table of Contents
Toei Animation stands as one of the premier studios in the anime industry, celebrated for its iconic productions like One Piece and Dragon Ball. The studio’s substantial success is a result of its dedicated artists who consistently deliver high-quality content. In a recent development, Toei Animation announced a strategic shift in its creative processes by integrating artificial intelligence into future projects.
This upcoming AI implementation aims to assist in various aspects, including the creation of storyboards, colorization, automatic correction of key frames (genga), and the generation of backgrounds derived from photographs.
Fan Opposition to AI Use by Toei
The announcement regarding AI has sparked significant concern within the anime community. Fans fear the potential loss of unique artistic expression, as AI technology has demonstrated an alarming ability to imitate existing art styles. Following the rise of various AI models, concerns have grown over the possibility of automated systems reproducing the nuanced craftsmanship of individual artists.
According to Toei Animation’s official site, they plan to use AI in future productions for storyboard creation, coloring, automatic correction of genga and in-between frames, and generating backgrounds from photos. pic.twitter.com/FpGshhxWI9 — Pew (@pewpiece) May 16, 2025
In light of these developments, a broader trend has emerged where AI has been used to replicate the stylistic elements of prominent figures, such as Hayao Miyazaki of Studio Ghibli. This has, understandably, frustrated many enthusiasts and creators alike, leading to vocal objections, including from renowned director Megumi Ishitani. Given the significant backlash from the artistic community, Toei Animation’s decision will likely elicit a strong response.
Potential Time Savings from AI
Despite the concerns surrounding the integration of AI, it is essential to recognize the potential advantages that come with it. AI technology holds the promise of streamlining production processes, allowing Toei Animation to conserve valuable time and resources. By automating certain tasks, the creative team could focus their energies on more complex and artistic elements of their projects.
If the studio can assure its staff that AI will not jeopardize job security, it may foster a more positive acceptance of these changes. In fact, team members might welcome AI as a tool to expedite smaller tasks, enabling greater efficiency. However, these are speculative insights, and the ultimate outcomes remain to be seen as new productions unfold.
Currently, Toei Animation’s ongoing project includes the widely applauded One Piece.
Source: X (formerly Twitter)