The likes of MAPPA, Ufotable, and Madhouse are about to get some stiff competition from TOHO as the Japanese entertainment company has announced the acquisition of Science SARU.
TOHO has recognized the potential of Science SARU, the studio behind the much-awaited anime adaptation of Dandadan. It is an anime studio that was founded in 2013. Previously, they participated as one of the many animators of the Star Wars: Visions anthology series on Disney+. They’ve also worked on projects like Inu-Oh (nominated for the Golden Globe Award), Scott Pilgrim Takes Off (on Netflix), and Devilman: Crybaby, among others.
What TOHO has to say about Science SARU acquisition?
“By integrating Science SARU into our group, we aim to enhance our animation production capabilities and accelerate the growth of our group’s animation business,” reads the press release. This will enable the studio to deliver higher-quality animation to both Japanese and global audiences.
Furthermore, TOHO is looking to avoid the MAPPA-like work crunch situation with Science SARU’s acquisition. The press release mentions that “making Science SARU a subsidiary” will enable them to “improve the production environment.” It will also allow employees at the studio “more creative opportunities” and fully demonstrate their talents.
If you are looking for financial information and the details of the acquisition, you can find them in the press release linked here.
The first work Science SARU will deliver under TOHO’s banner will be the anime film Your Color (Kimi no Iro), which is scheduled to premiere on August 30. The second release, as a lot of you might know, will be the Dandadan anime based on the manga of the same name by Yukinobu Tatsu.
Dandadan produced by Science SARU will be released in October 2024 later this year. So, what do you think about this acquisition? Is it the next anime powerhouse in the making? Share your opinion in the comments section.
