5 Underrated Anime from the Studio Behind 'JUJUTSU KAISEN' That Will Make You Fall in Love

Kapanlagi.com - The animation studio MAPPA is widely recognized for its popular works such as JUJUTSU KAISEN, CHAINSAW MAN, and ATTACK ON TITAN: THE FINAL SEASON, among many others. But did you know? Behind that great spotlight, MAPPA also has a lineup of equally high-quality anime that hasn't received much public attention. Some of them even feature emotional stories with stunning visuals that are worth watching.

While fans await the continuation of MAPPA's major projects, the following five anime can be the best choice to fill your time. Each presents a story with strong characters and deep messages that leave a warm impression in your heart. Here is the list of underrated MAPPA anime that will steal your heart!

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1. Days

Days (Credit: MAPPA / IMDb)

The theme of perseverance in struggle is certainly common in the world of anime. However, DAYS presents it with a different and touching atmosphere. This anime highlights a story about the spirit of sports that can ignite the motivation of its viewers.

The story centers around Tsukushi Tsukamoto, a high school student with an awkward personality who is often teased for being shy. One day, he meets Jin Kazama, a talented soccer player from the same school. This meeting becomes the beginning of a significant change in Tsukushi's life.

Jin helps him from bullying and invites Tsukushi to join his futsal team because they are short on members. Unexpectedly, he scores the winning goal in that match. From there, his newfound determination drives him to confidently join the school soccer club.

2. The Gymnastics Samurai

The Gymnastics Samurai (Credit: MAPPA / IMDb)

Original anime often receives less attention because it doesn't have a built-in fanbase like manga adaptations. One of them is THE GYMNASTICS SAMURAI, which presents a different approach. This anime highlights the story of a senior athlete who is at the peak of his career.

The main character is named Joutaro Aragaki, a legendary gymnast nicknamed "Samurai" because of his distinctive hairstyle. After the death of his wife, Joutaro suffers a severe shoulder injury. Despite this, he continues to train hard even five years after the incident.

One day, Joutaro plans to retire and takes his daughter on a vacation to the amusement park Ego Wonderland. There, he meets Leonardo, an eccentric man who claims to be a ninja. This meeting becomes a turning point that rekindles Joutaro's passion for gymnastics.

3. Terror in Resonance

Terror in Resonance (Credit: MAPPA / IMDb)

TERROR IN RESONANCE becomes one of the original works by MAPPA that is full of emotion. This anime is a psychological thriller that is tense from the very beginning. The story centers around two mysterious teenagers named Nine and Twelve.

They carry out a series of bombings in Tokyo under the alias "Sphinx." Their actions create widespread panic throughout the city. The police are desperately trying to uncover their true identities.

The situation escalates when they upload a video containing a mysterious puzzle while wearing masks. In the chaos, they meet Lisa Mishima, a lonely high school girl who unintentionally gets caught up in it. As time goes on, the pasts of Nine and Twelve are revealed, and you will discover a reality that is much darker than you can imagine.

4. In This Corner of the World

In This Corner of the World (Credit: MAPPA / IMDb)

At a glance, IN THIS CORNER OF THE WORLD appears soft and colorful. However, behind its beautiful visuals lies a heartbreaking story about struggle during wartime. This film has a combination of themes of resilience, hope, and love that bloom amid destruction.

The story follows Suzu Urano, a kind-hearted girl who grows up on the outskirts of Hiroshima. She has a hobby of drawing and enjoys a simple life with her family. As she comes of age, Suzu marries Shuusaku Houjo through an arranged marriage.

After moving to her husband's house, Suzu tries to adapt to her new life. But, the war gradually touches the area where she lives, and she must fight with all her strength to protect her family from the harsh realities of war.

5. Kids on the Slope

Kids on the Slope (Credit: MAPPA / IMDb)

KIDS ON THE SLOPE is a work by MAPPA that combines elements of music, romance, and the journey to adulthood. The story is touching and warm, depicting human relationships that grow through the rhythm of jazz. The main character, Kaoru Nishimi, is a quiet teenager from a well-off family.

Due to his father's job, Kaoru often changes schools and struggles to make new friends. He then channels his feelings through playing classical piano. However, everything changes when the summer of 1966 arrives.

When he moves to an island in Kyushu, he meets Sentaro Kawabuchi, a rebellious teenager who loves jazz music. Sentaro often practices at the music store owned by Ritsuko Mukae, his childhood friend. Initially, Kaoru keeps his distance. But gradually, he discovers the meaning of friendship and deeper feelings.

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(kpl/olv)