Frieren’s Hand-Drawn Credits Defy AI and Celebrate Human Artistry

When you think about the most memorable anime end credits, a few instantly stand out—maybe for their unique visuals or a song that sticks with you long after the episode ends. For years, I would have pointed to Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood’s unforgettable outros. But now, there’s a new standout: the ending sequence for Frieren season 2, titled ‘The Story of Us,’ performed by Milet and brought to life through the illustrations of Mimei Auome.

Auome’s approach is nothing short of remarkable. Using only colored pencils, they’ve created a series of images that capture Frieren’s journey with stunning detail and emotion. Each frame is painstakingly hand-drawn, and Auome has even shared these illustrations on their official Twitter, offering fans a closer look at the artistry behind every scene.

Handcrafted Art in a Digital Age

In a time when artificial intelligence is making bigger inroads into anime production, this hand-drawn sequence feels like a breath of fresh air. ‘The Story of Us’ stands as a powerful reminder of why human creativity matters. The visuals don’t just tell Frieren’s story—they immerse viewers in a world of color and feeling that only a real artist can deliver.

The sequence also deepens the emotional impact of Frieren season 2, weaving a short but touching love story between Himmel and Frieren. The vibrant colors and expressive lines make every moment feel alive, underscoring the importance of the human touch in animation.

AI Controversies Shake the Anime Industry

Last year, the anime world faced a wave of AI-related controversies. Several English dubs created with AI were pulled from Prime Video after fans voiced their concerns. Meanwhile, the short film Twins Hinahima, produced almost entirely with AI, premiered in March and sparked heated debate. The release of OpenAI ’s Sora 2 video generation tool only added fuel to the fire, especially after it was used to recreate well-known anime characters.

These incidents led to a growing backlash. Japanese lawmaker Akihisa Shiozaki weighed in on social media, stating,

Japan bears a responsibility to take the lead on making rules (related to AI and copyright infringement), precisely because we are a country that has captivated the world with the creative power of anime, games, and music.

Celebrating the Human Element

In the midst of these debates, Frieren’s end credits offer a clear, heartfelt argument for the value of traditional artistry. Mimei Auome’s colored pencil illustrations don’t just resist the trend toward automation—they celebrate the unique vision and emotion that only a human artist can provide. For fans and creators alike, it’s a vivid reminder of what makes anime truly special.

For those eager to dive deeper, guides on upcoming anime and the Frieren season 2 release schedule are available for further exploration.