AI Vs. Anime Continues: A Threat or Tool for Creators?

Over the past few weeks, artificial intelligence has become a hot topic in the anime world. What began as a fun internet meme — where AI-generated images mimicked the warm, detailed style of Studio Ghibli — quickly turned into a full-blown debate about the future of creativity, respect for traditional artists, and the direction the anime industry is heading.

The Ghibli-Style Meme That Sparked the Fire

It all started innocently enough. Someone online created a series of AI-generated images styled after the work of legendary director Hayao Miyazaki. The visuals captured the cozy, slice-of-life charm Ghibli is known for — and they spread fast. But what many saw as a tribute, others saw as crossing a serious line.

Miyazaki, who has long been outspoken about the dangers of AI in art, once famously called it "an insult to life itself." So, when his signature style was reproduced by a machine, many anime creators and fans stood up to defend the artistry behind his work. For them, this wasn’t just a meme — it was a warning sign.

More about this situation at OtakuArt website.

Twins HinaHima: A Glimpse Into the Future?

This isn't anything new. Discussions intensified with the announcement of the new anime Twins HinaHima back in January, a story about two sisters hoping to go viral on TikTok. While the premise itself isn’t groundbreaking, the production method is. The anime was being developed with heavy use of AI, raising eyebrows across the industry.

What truly stirred the pot was the fact that respected figures like Makoto Tezuka and Yoshikazu Yasuhiko — both very well-known people in animation and anime industry — are involved. They’ve expressed support for the use of AI, comparing its emergence to the introduction of computer graphics (CG) back in the 1980s. In their view, AI is simply a tool — one that can help animators work more efficiently without replacing true creative talent.

Fans Aren’t Buying It

But not everyone shares their optimism. Online, fans have been vocal — and mostly negative — about AI’s increasing role in anime. Many say it’s disappointing, even embarrassing, for Japan, a country with the wealth of talented artists, to rely on machines. To them, using AI in place of real, hardworking animators feels like cutting corners, and risks turning a deeply expressive medium into something cold and generic.

The backlash toward Twins HinaHima might not be massive just yet, but it’s a sign of a growing divide. Even if AI isn’t replacing entire animation teams today, the conversation is only getting louder — and more complicated.

Conclusion: AI Is Still a Taboo Topic Within Entertainment Industry

So, where does anime go from here? It’s clear that AI is going to play some role in the industry. The question is how much. Can it be used as a supportive tool without threatening the human heart behind anime? Or will it gradually take over, leading to a flood of lifeless, algorithm-driven content?

Right now, we're at a crossroads. With creators like Miyazaki and others standing firm in their beliefs, and studios experimenting with new tech, the future of anime could go in many different directions. But one thing’s for sure — fans, artists, and the entire community are paying close attention.

More about this topic at Anime Hunch.