One Piece Chapter 1153, titled “The Birth of Loki,” delves into Harold’s backstory, exploring how he came to be the pacifist he is known as in the current timeline and why he is revered as the greatest King of Elbaf. The flashback connects several dots about his character, including the birth of his sons, Hajrudin and Loki. This chapter also highlights the traditions of Elbaf, showing that despite Harold’s progressive views, he still adhered to certain customs, such as marrying a woman of prominent lineage to preserve royal blood, through which Loki was born.

However, immediately after Loki’s birth, he was discarded by his mother due to his unusual eyes, branded a monster from the moment he arrived. In her rejection, Estrid, his mother, even went so far as to cast the newborn into the realm of death, yet he survived and returned. She then revealed a grim prophecy: that Loki would one day kill his father. This was enough for him to be labeled the accursed prince. The revelation is striking, as it emphasizes how Loki’s descent into villainy was shaped not by his choices but by the people around him. Comparing Loki’s situation with Ryomen Sukuna from Jujutsu Kaisen forms a compelling parallel to him, whose own origins, hinted at through context, reflect a similarly tragic and troubled birth.

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Here is How Jujutsu Kaisen’s Sukuna Became A Villain (And It’s Tragic)

Sukuna and Loki Have Similar Tragic Births

While One Piece depicts Loki’s birth through a flashback, Sukuna’s birth in Jujutsu Kaisen is only mentioned twice, and only by the villain himself. Yet, upon deeper analysis, it becomes clear that Sukuna, like Loki, wasn’t born to be a villain but was tragically forced into becoming one after being rejected by his mother. The first mention of Sukuna’s birth appears in Chapter 237 of Jujutsu Kaisen, in response to a question from Hajime Kashimo, who asks if Sukuna was born the strongest. Sukuna answers by saying he was an “unwanted child.” While the response might seem vague at first, a closer look at the Japanese kanji reveals a deeper cultural implication.

The original kanji can roughly translate to “creepy child,” which, when placed within the context of Japanese culture, often refers to someone born disfigured. While this detail might have initially been brushed off as fan interpretation, further context from Sukuna himself, shared twenty chapters later, confirms its weight. In Chapter 257, while discussing Yuji’s uniqueness with Uraume, Sukuna reveals he was almost born as a twin but ended up eating his sibling in the womb. His mother, he explains, was starving and likely didn’t want children. This shocking revelation not only supports his earlier statement about being a “creepy child” but also implies he may have been born conjoined or physically abnormal.

The fact that Sukuna later becomes a cannibal reinforces the notion that he became what people feared from his birth, the child who devoured his own twin. This perfectly encapsulates Jujutsu Kaisen’s core theme: that curses are born from what people fear most. Similarly, Loki’s birth, marked by rejection from his mother and fear from those around him, mirrors this tragic setup. Yet, where Sukuna’s path never allows for redemption, Loki’s flashback and the current narrative appear to be setting the stage for him to rise as a hero that will offer a stark contrast in how two cursed births can lead to entirely different destinies if given the chance.

One Piece‘s Loki Will Get the Chance For Redemption That Sukuna Never Got

In the finale of Jujutsu Kaisen, Sukuna reveals to Mahito that he had two choices, both rooted in love, whether parental or romantic, neither of which he ever embraced. This confession underscores how deeply his rejection, especially from his mother, shaped his hatred for humanity. Rather than choosing love, Sukuna consistently chose the path of darkness, consumed by the pain of being unloved and unwanted. In contrast, One Piece is currently setting Loki up as a character poised for redemption. Alongside Luffy and Zoro, Loki is one of the few individuals in Elbaf shown to possess Conqueror’s Haki, an ability that places him among those capable of standing against the Holy Knights. This positions him not only as a powerful warrior but also as a potential savior of his people.

The flashback further reveals that Harold, Loki’s father, was possessed by Imu, just as Dorry and Brogy are in the present timeline. This revelation could help the people of Elbaf understand that if Loki did, in fact, kill his father, it wasn’t out of malice or destiny, but necessity. Loki’s arc in One Piece appears to be one of redemption and heroism, positioning him to become the true King of Elbaf. His journey is reinforcing the idea that destiny is not set at birth, but it is shaped by the choices one makes. Sadly, that is a chance Jujutsu Kaisen’s Sukuna never received.

The post One Piece’s Loki Strikes a Tragic Parallel With Sukuna From Jujutsu Kaisen appeared first on ComicBook.com.

Imagine finishing an intense episode of your favorite anime, only to be treated to a funny post-credit scene where the same characters who were just fighting for their lives are now arguing over who gets the last piece of sushi. If you’ve watched Jujutsu Kaisen, you already know about the gem that is Juju Stroll – those short, non-canon comedy bits at the end of most episodes where everyone just goofs off. These scenes don’t push the story forward, but they let you breathe, laugh, and see a more human side of your favorite characters, making Jujutsu Kaisen more than just another battle shonen.

Talking about shonen anime, Solo Leveling has taken over screens around the world with its dark fantasy world, incredible fight scenes, and protagonist Sung Jinwoo’s rise from a weak hunter to a god-like force. It’s the kind of power fantasy anime fans devour without question. But even with all its greatness, something about the show feels a little… hollow. With rarely any break from the action, the show can feel too serious at times, missing those moments that make characters feel more human. 

Jeju Strolls: The Missing Piece Solo Leveling Needs

Solo Leveling has all the ingredients for amazing comedic segments, yet it consistently chooses to end its episodes on a serious note. Here’s the fix I’d suggest: Jeju Strolls, Solo Leveling’s own version of Juju Strolls. These segments could include anything: bloopers, fake interviews, or even slice-of-life moments that show characters in a completely new light.

Personally, I would love to see Jinwoo’s shadows sitting in a cafe arguing over who’s the strongest, or the hunters doing karaoke after a tough day. The potential for funny content is endless, especially with the series’ rich cast of supporting characters who desperately need more screen time. These moments could focus more on personality quirks and relationships that the main story doesn’t have time to explore properly.

From Naruto to Blue Lock: Why Comedy Segments Matter

The tradition of post-episode comedy segments isn’t new. Classics like Naruto had Omake, which were short extras that included comedic bits completely separate from the main story. Hunter x Hunter, which Solo Leveling has already been compared to for its Ant arc, gave us Hunterpedia, where Gon and Killua hosted fun segments about the Hunter universe. Even newer anime like Blue Lock throw in similar post-episode content that features characters’ funny quirks and personalities.

These segments have multiple purposes beyond just entertainment. They give viewers time to decompress between intense arcs and allow for character exploration that wouldn’t fit in the main story. They also give studios creative freedom to experiment with different animation styles and storytelling approaches. Most importantly, they add balance, which in my opinion, is exactly what Solo Leveling needs right now.

These small, quirky moments remind us that anime isn’t just about battles and trauma; it’s also about characters being human and relatable. They build fan loyalty by creating memorable moments that people talk about long after the episode ends. Plus, they increase meme content and let voice actors show off their comedic range, further contributing to a series’ long-term popularity.

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Solo Leveling’s Biggest Success Isn’t Its Animation

The Pacing Problem – A Little Humor Can Remedy It

Let’s be honest: many of Solo Leveling’s episodes feel criminally short. The pacing is so fast, the show barely leaves any room to reflect on what just happened. And just when you’re fully engaged, the episode cuts to black. 

But the solution isn’t complicated; it just requires adapting the same formula that other series have already proven works. Adding a two-to-three-minute comedy segment at the end of each episode could fix the pacing issues, help develop side characters, and give fans something lighter after all that intense action. It’s a win-win situation that the series seems reluctant to embrace, despite having all the right pieces in place.

Final Thoughts – Jinwoo Needs to Chill (Sometimes)

Now, don’t get me wrong, I’m not saying Solo Leveling should be less serious – it’s dark, serious tone is a big part of what makes it stand out. But even the darkest shows can benefit from a little light. Solo Leveling needs to recognize that balance is what separates good shows from the iconic ones that people remember for years.

And while some might argue that silly end-credit scenes aren’t necessary, in today’s fandom-driven world, they’re more important than ever. Memes, inside jokes, and viral clips grow when shows give fans more content to work with. Which in turn increases the show’s longevity. 

So here’s the suggestion: add Jeju Strolls as a fun break for fans who’ve just watched over 20 minutes of intense action. By taking a page from Jujutsu Kaisen’s playbook, the series could evolve from great to legendary, giving fans even more reasons to fall in love with this incredible world. After all, even a Shadow Monarch deserves a laugh once in a while.

The post Solo Leveling Is Great but Needs to Take a Page From Jujutsu Kaisen’s Book appeared first on ComicBook.com.

Anime Expo 2025 is almost upon us, and fans could not be more excited about all the announcements, updates, and news those 3 days hold. Between massive returning manga to new works that will hopefully take over, July will be a great month for anime fans all around the world, as the month promises some of this year’s biggest announcements from the world of anime.

Anime Expo (AX) started in 1991 and has evolved into the largest celebration of Japanese pop culture in North America. Taking place every year in Los Angeles, AX unites fans, celebrities, and industry experts from around the globe for an unforgettable experience. From anime premieres, concerts, cosplay, gaming, and fashion shows, Anime Expo hosts celebrate the medium every year and, most excitingly, allow for the biggest announcements of the year to occur, and some of this decade’s biggest news, such as Solo Leveling and Chainsman Man’s anime.

1) Bleach’s Final Cour Will Get An Exclusive Look

Bleach: Thousand Year Blood War is heading into its final season, and besides the absolutely insane content that is ahead of fans, the biggest reasons to be hyped is that it will contain more original content from Tite Kubo than ever before and that it has the most time in between seasons for a better quality of result. This Anime Expo event will see a new look into the season, and fans could be blessed with a new trailer and key visual, as well as a release window. The legendary anime is finally nearing the climax of its war arc, and the final season will be one that fans cannot miss.

2) Demon Slayer’s First Infinity Castle Movie Will Get An Update

Definitely one of the most anticipated anime movies of the decade, especially after the franchise’s first movie shattered all types of records, Demon Slayer’s upcoming movie, which will be the first part of the trilogy, could receive new information on June 28, 2025. An exciting way to kick off the event, the celebration of the 6th anniversary of one of the biggest anime series in history as it looks to end its run in legendary fashion, will be something to watch out for, and this theatrical fall release is something we’re waiting for with bated breath.

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3) Jujutsu Kaisen Might Have Season 3 Related Information

Anime Expo holds great potential to be where fans will finally be treated to anything related to the third season of Jujutsu Kaisen, and the possibility is very high. The voice actors of Itadori Yuji and Yuta Okkotsu will be attending and hosting the panel on July 6, and coincidentally, these two characters will be the stars of the Culling Games’ first act. The franchise has been busy this year, with the return of the Hidden Inventory and Jujutsu Kaisen 0 movie to theatres, and it is only a matter of time until the long-awaited return of the hit battle shonen graces TV yet again.

4) My Hero Academia‘s Final Season Will Share A New Look

With the final season of My Hero Academia coming in October 2025, the anticipated climax of the final war will get new information on July 5, 2025. Furthermore, the official website of Anime Expo teases that the creator, Kohei Horikoshi, will share a message to accompany the update just for the occasion, and given that this is the last season, it makes sense. There is so much to look forward to from season 8 of the wildly popular superhero hit, and we will be one step closer this July.

5) Science SARU Will Share Progress On The Ghost in the Shell Project

Scheduled for July 3, the animation studio behind hits like Dandadan and Devilman Crybaby will finally share progress and news on the recently announced anime project that will remake the legendary sci-fi manga by Masamune Shirow. The announcement was truly surprising but welcomed either way, as the studio’s vision of the anime might be the closest to the manga. Besides a character visual of the iconic protagonist, Motoko Kusanagi, the only thing we know about the project is that it is coming in 2026, and this panel will change that as more updates are on the way.

The post Demon Slayer, Bleach, and More: The Biggest Anime Expo Announcements We’re Excited About appeared first on ComicBook.com.

We’ll cut to the chase: the team here at ComicBook Anime is here for the readers, and it seems like you’re all hungry for anime to watch before you kick the bucket. We’ll playfully ignore what that says about the state of the world. There’s so much content spread across a variety of genres and eras of the medium that it can be easy to overlook a wide variety of gems, hidden or otherwise.

Anyway, our first anime bucket list showcased a range of titles that would give you a full view of the industry. With this list, though, we’ve put our heads together and offered up personal all-timers. The result: 10 titles hand-picked by ComicBook staff for relevance, poignancy, or just plain being a cut above the rest. Signed and sealed: these are the anime series you can’t miss.

1) Hikaru no Go

I got into Hikaru no Go the day it graced the pages of the old Shonen Jump magazine, enamored both with the writing by Yumi Hotta and Takeshi Obata’s pre-Death Note artwork. When they sent DVD samples of its first episode, I immediately fell in love with Pierrot’s take, an elegant portrayal of its hero on a journey of self-discovery and the path to a fulfilling yet turbulent career as a young professional Go player. It was wildly compelling, creating an engaging coming-of-age premise with the wonderfully complex, ancient board game of Go. 

Hikaru no Go goes on my personal anime bucket list because it features gorgeous opening and ending themes, a concise coming-of-age story where its stars grow up subtly yet undeniably, and it approaches an extremely complex board game in a digestible manner. While the anime doesn’t cover the extent of the manga’s source material, it still approaches a cathartic tear-jerker of a conclusion to young Hikaru Shindo’s journey. Pierrot’s animated rendition teaches powerful lessons on growing up and processing becoming independent, even if it verges on feeling abandoned in the process.

via J.R. Waugh, ComicBook Anime Editor

2) ReLIFE

What makes ReLIFE once in a lifetime is its premise—a captivating blend of fantasy and everyday life, a deeply resonant slice-of-life story. More importantly, it explores regret and the wish to do things differently if given another chance. This is the journey the protagonist finds himself on. At 27, stranded between jobs and struggling to manage his life, he’s presented with an opportunity to revert to his 17-year-old self by taking a pill from an organization conducting a social experiment.

As part of the deal, the protagonist must return to high school at 17. While he expects it to be easy this time around, it brings its own set of challenges, emphasizing that circumstances may be the same, but obstacles remain regardless of age or experience. While it may appeal to a younger audience, it’s clear this story is meant for those who have recently entered the adult world and are unsure or afraid of what lies ahead. As Arata’s time with a second chance draws to a close, it evolves into a compelling, uplifting story with twists and a charming romance that adds depth to its slice-of-life narrative.

via Rohit Jaiswar

3) Link Click

Under the guise of the Time Photo Studio, Cheng Xiaoshi and Lu Guang’s trade instead involves the client providing the photo. With it, they can travel back in time. While Lu Guang provides guidance with his ability to see 12 hours into the photo’s future, Cheng Xiaoshi leaps back to the moment the photo was taken, assuming the identity of the photographer along with all of their memories and emotions. The two must then work together in order to solve the client’s request and relieve them of their past regret.

A picture’s worth a thousand words, but to Cheng Xiaoshi, Lu Guang, and their clients, it’s worth so much more. The use of photographs here isn’t just a visual symbol, but an allegory pervading the entire narrative. The photos capture the moment the person’s life changes course: a mere vignette to the sequence of events that brought them there; a candid view of their life’s lens and exposure to their emotions and memories; a twelve-hour limited depth of field narrowing the aperture of opportunity; trying to find a resolution without changing the composition of events. Link Click gives truly vibrant developments within the snapshots of the human experience.

via Demi Leverett

4) Wotakoi: Love Is Hard for Otaku

When it comes to recommending anime, shoujo and josei often get swept under the rug despite having much to offer. In fact, josei often toes the line with seinen, which is why the genre would appeal to many if only they gave it a chance. An excellent example of this is Wotakoi.

Short for Love is Hard For Otaku, Wotakoi, as its name implies, is expressly targeted at otakus and weebs and revolves around four such closeted otakus as they navigate the challenges of romance and adult relationships. Office workers by day, otakus by 5 PM, Wotakoi is equal parts witty and relatable and has all the makings of a comfort show, though sadly, it has yet to get a second season.

via Merlyn de Souza

5) Jujutsu Kaisen

Forget your typical shonen tropes – Jujutsu Kaisen bursts onto the screen with a refreshingly dark, thrilling energy that will hook you from the very first cursed spirit. This isn’t just about good guys punching bad guys; it’s a carefully crafted world where the line between hero and monster blurs, and every victory feels hard-won, though oftentimes with a heavy price. With its breathtaking animation from Studio MAPPA, especially during the high-octane dynamic fight sequences, Jujutsu Kaisen elevates battles into a form of visceral art.

Beyond the stunning visuals and unique power system, Jujutsu Kaisen blends moments of genuine humor with themes of loss, sacrifice, and the weight of destiny. It’s an anime that isn’t afraid to confront its characters with brutal realities, leading to some truly shocking (and emotionally scarring) plot twists that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The soundtrack alone is a character in itself, perfectly accentuating every tense battle and beat, drawing you further into its world. Whether you’re a seasoned anime fan or just looking for your next binge-worthy obsession, Jujutsu Kaisen offers an entertainment experience that is both exhilarating and thought-provoking, rightfully earning its place as a global phenomenon.

via Jenna Wrenn

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6) Vinland Saga

Among seinen readers and fans of the anime, Vinland Saga is undoubtedly one of the all-time modern greats. Based on the manga by Makoto Yukimura, the series starts as a fairly generic revenge tale about young Thorfinn seeking to avenge his father, Thors. Amidst its impeccable fight scenes and complex supporting characters, Vinland Saga‘s debut season shows hints of thematic greatness.

Then Season 2 pulls one of the greatest bait-and-switches in anime history. The first season is revealed to be a prologue, and the true story begins with Thorfinn’s enslavement and redemption arc, as he undergoes an existential journey about what it means to be a “true warrior.” Vinland Saga‘s true story is moving, self-reflective, and, not to put it lightly, life-changing, having inspired a wave of fans to improve their own lives.

via Archie Fenn

7) My Hero Academia

You’re probably thinking that only anime of a certain classic era have cemented their place as major hits that you absolutely need to experience, but My Hero Academia is an example of a major recent era juggernaut that you need to see at least once. Kohei Horikoshi’s My Hero Academia hit at the perfect time. It wasn’t in the same pocket as pandemic-era shows like Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba, but instead was one of the final standout franchises from the 2010s that were commemorated with the kind of anime release that we just don’t see in action anymore.

At the time of this publication, My Hero Academia‘s anime is going to end with Season 8. That’s a number of seasons that’s not only rare these days, but something of a bygone era. My Hero Academia not only keeps the spirit alive for these classic era shows that ran for a very long time, but also has more modern sensibilities, as it also got to be a seasonal show that aired every year instead of needing to keep a weekly episode release schedule like One Piece or Black Clover. Then, when you dive in, you get a spectacular superhero show that honors the best of Western comics and its Japanese manga influences. There are few like it.

via Nick Valdez, ComicBook Staff Writer

8) Samurai Champloo

From the mind of Shinichirō Watanabe, the creator of beloved Cowboy Bebop, comes, in my opinion, the animator director’s opus: Samurai Champloo, a 26-episode two-part series that focuses on the traveling trio of Fuu, Mugen, and Jin as the latter two help Fuu travel as she seeks out the “Sunflower Samurai”. The entire trek is backlit by the two swordsmen’s shared disdain and their truce for as long as they are helping Fuu. The series contains high-octane fights, busy episodes, and wonderful intra-character development, lending itself to the perfect ensemble cast.

Highlights of the entire production would be much of the scene direction and the way scenes are choreographed and blocked with melodic and sync-heavy instrumental hip-hop. Cowboy Bebop was about friendship and existence with no discernible destination. A simple show full of action but also mundane day-to-day story beats that takes similar thematic notes, Samurai Champloo is about friendship and the journey of life. We may not be going to the same place, but we can enjoy each other’s company on the way, and maybe we’ll meet again down the road.

via Adam Gonzales

9) Super Dimension Fortress Macross

Super Dimension Fortress Macross is a product of its time, yet it transcends time itself. The original ’80s series occasionally suffers from incredibly cheap and poorly looking episodes, plus there’s tonal whiplash throughout the series. One moment is serious drama where characters are unceremoniously killed off, and another moment is about pop idols and music.

However, the series is better than the sum of its parts, delivering a sincere message about music and cultural barriers. The overall ’80s aesthetics give the anime its identity, creating one of the most fun, interesting mechas of all time.

via Misael Duran

10) Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood

With a reputation as one of the best anime of all time, Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood has something for everyone. What’s especially interesting about it, though, is that it’s one of the most philosophical anime out there, but doesn’t come across as pretentious or difficult to understand. As a more manga-accurate remake of the original Fullmetal Alchemist anime, the series masterfully combines depth, humor, action, and emotional moments to keep viewers hooked.

The story is gripping right from the very beginning as viewers follow two brothers who commit the alchemical taboo of Human Transmutation to try and bring back their dead mother. As a consequence for trying to mess with the laws of nature, the brothers lose their bodies, with the older brother Ed losing an arm and a leg while the younger brother Al loses the entirety of his body to become a soul bound to a set of armor. The series then follows the brothers’ quest to get their bodies back, with many twists and turns along the way.

via Areeba Khan

This is the first time we’ve run a “staff picks” piece, and it’s been a while in the making. So first, we’d like to take a second to thank every member of our staff who volunteered an entry for this piece!

As for you, the reader: if you like the more personal angle, make sure to leave your thoughts in a comment below. If you want to go a step further, then share it and check out the ComicBook profiles of our authors whose tastes are closest to yours. There could be a lot more in the future—but we have to make a case to our higher-ups like anybody else does!

The post 10 Best Bucket List Anime We Can’t Recommend Enough (STAFF PICKS) appeared first on ComicBook.com.

Jujutsu Kaisen fans are buzzing with anticipation for Season 3, which promises to adapt the highly anticipated Culling Game arc. This arc introduces a slew of powerful and intriguing new characters, along with bringing back some familiar faces in new capacities. From formidable sorcerers with unique cursed techniques to ancient beings seeking to fulfill their own agendas, the Culling Game is a battle royale that will push our heroes (and foes) to their limits. Get ready for intense battles, unexpected alliances, and shocking revelations as these characters leave their indelible mark on the jujutsu world. 

We’ve compiled a list of ten Jujutsu Kaisen characters who we’re most excited to see brought to life on screen, each of whom are making us count down the days until Season 3 drops. While MAPPA has plenty of material to keep us entertained until then, including the new Chainsaw Man movie, for many fans, Jujutsu Kaisen Season 3 remains the main event. To that end, here are some headliners we think you should be the most excited to see next!

10) Naoya Zenin

Let’s be clear: the “excitement” to see Naoya Zenin is purely to collectively revel in how much we despise him. As the head of the Zenin clan’s strongest faction, the Hei, he embodies everything reprehensible about the traditional jujutsu world – arrogance, misogyny, and utter selfishness. His privileged background and inflated sense of superiority make him an easy target for hatred, and the way he treats Maki is particularly infuriating.

While the Projection Sorcery cursed technique he shares with his father, Naobito, is undeniably powerful, Naoya’s true impact on the story comes from his awful personality and the toxic environment he creates everywhere he goes. Without giving away spoilers, his arc will undoubtedly be a cathartic experience for many viewers. If you’re ready for someone who makes you boo and hiss at the screen, Naoya Zenin will be the perfect source of loathing.

9) Uraume

Uraume, Sukuna’s devoted servant for centuries, is a character shrouded in intrigue, and their chilling presence is bound to be a highlight of Season 3 in terms of Jujutsu Kaisen character appearances. Their ice-based cursed technique, combined with an unwavering loyalty that spans centuries, makes Uraume a formidable opponent and a fascinating mystery. Though there have been glimpses into their power and dedication during the Shibuya Incident, their full capabilities are yet to be explored on screen.

Their ancient origins and deep connection to Sukuna suggest a rich backstory that could shed light on the history of jujutsu itself. More of their unique abilities and their cold, calculating demeanor will play a major part in the unfolding chaos of the Culling Game. Uraume’s involvement promises to bring a deeper layer of ancient sorcery and strategic complexity to the unfolding action.

8) Yorozu

Yorozu is another ancient sorcerer who is reincarnated into the modern era. Her unique cursed technique and powerful abilities make her a standout character, regardless of how likable‒ or unlikeable‒ she may be. Her confidence and aggressive fighting style are captivating, and her past connection to Sukuna adds a layer of depth to her character. Yorozu’s cursed technique, which allows her to create liquid metal that can form different structures and weapons, promises some visually spectacular battles.

Her reemergence into the Culling Game with a clear objective – to gain Sukuna’s attention and affection – sets the stage for conflicts on all sides. Season 3 will explore how her determination and incredible power will challenge the heroes (particularly Megumi) and influence the trajectory of the Culling Game. Yorozu’s unique blend of ancient power and a very personal agenda makes her a character to keep an eye out for.

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7) Reggie Star

Reggie Star, a cunning and pragmatic reincarnated sorcerer, is a master of strategic combat and deception. His Contractual Re-entry cursed technique, which allows him to manifest anything he’s purchased using the receipts of the items, brings a unique and unpredictable fighting style to the series; one that will be incredibly exciting to see animated. His battle against Megumi is a masterclass in tactical thinking and resourcefulness.

Reggie’s intelligence and ability to adapt to any situation make him a dangerous enemy for all Culling Game players in Jujutsu Kaisen Season 3. He’s not just about raw power; he’s a schemer who uses his wits to outmaneuver his opponents. It will be interesting to see how his complex strategies and unconventional abilities translate to the screen, leading to some of the most intricate and suspenseful fights in the arc.

6) Ryu Ishigori

Ryu Ishigori, one of the most powerful reincarnated sorcerers in the Culling Game, is a force of nature whose sheer destructive power will be incredible to witness in animated form. His cursed technique, Cursed Energy Discharge, allows him to convert his cursed energy into high-speed beams of devastating force, making him an incredibly dangerous long-range combatant. His desire for intense fights align perfectly with the chaos of the Culling Game.

Ryu’s no-nonsense attitude and love for a good fight make him an interesting character. His raw power and straightforward approach to combat provide a refreshing contrast to some of the more complex cursed techniques. The extent of his destructive capabilities are on full display in the Culling Game, showing how he pushes even the strongest characters to their limits in what promises to be some of the most explosive battles of the season.

5) Hana Kurusu

Hana Kurusu, the vessel for the ancient sorcerer Angel, plays a unique and crucial role in the Culling Game, making her a highly anticipated character for Jujutsu Kaisen Season 3. Her cursed technique, Jacob’s Ladder, has the power to extinguish any cursed technique, including cursed objects, which makes her an invaluable asset in the fight against Kenjaku and the ongoing crisis. Her potential to free Gojo Satoru from the Prison Realm makes her one of the most important characters in the arc.

Beyond her overwhelming power, Hana’s compassionate nature and initial reluctance to embrace the violence of the Culling Game set her up as an emotional core in the midst of death and destruction, much like Yuji Itadori. Her interactions with Yuji and the others, and the moral dilemmas she finds herself wrapped up in, adds significant emotional depth to the upcoming season.

4) Fumihiko Takaba

Fumihiko Takaba, a comedian-turned-sorcerer, has one of the most bizarre, yet incredibly, powerful cursed techniques: Comedian. This ability allows him to manifest anything he finds genuinely funny, regardless of logic or reality, making him an unpredictable and wildly entertaining character. His carefree attitude and unique approach to combat promise moments of both humor and unexpected power.

Takaba’s battles are unlike anything else in Jujutsu Kaisen, often descending into hilarious and nonsensical scenarios that somehow still manage to be incredibly effective. It will be interesting to see how the animators bring his chaotic and unpredictable powers to life and create fights that are as silly as they are thrilling. Takaba’s introduction as an anticipated Jujutsu Kaisen Season 3 character guarantees a fresh and unconventional dynamic to the otherwise serious tone of the Culling Game.

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3) Kinji Hakari

Kinji Hakari, the third-year student from Jujutsu High, has been mentioned in passing, but has yet to appear in the anime. He is a charismatic and incredibly powerful gambler whose domain expansion, Idle Death Gamble, is a spectacle that fans on social media have been longing to see animated. When activated, his domain essentially turns into a pachinko machine, and if he hits a jackpot, he gains infinite cursed energy for a short period, making him virtually invincible. His reckless fighting style, iconic dancing, and confidence are infectious.

Hakari’s unique personality and unconventional cursed technique make him a fan favorite, and his involvement in the Culling Game promises some of the most dynamic and unpredictable fights. Seeing the sheer chaos of his domain expansion in full glory, and how his power influences the outcome of the deadly game, will be a joy to witness on screen. His arc also explores themes of moral complexities, adding layers to his character beyond just his strength and personality.

2) Hajime Kashimo

Hajime Kashimo, an ancient sorcerer known for his mastery over lightning-based cursed energy, is an absolute powerhouse whose raw destructive capabilities are sure to be a highlight of Season 3. His cursed technique, Mythical Beast Amber, allows him to generate and manipulate electricity with devastating precision. His singular focus on fighting Sukuna and his unyielding pursuit of strength make him a truly mesmerizing character fans will immediately gravitate towards.

Kashimo’s impressive power and relentless pursuit of strong opponents to fight guarantee some of the most electrifying (pun intended!) battles in the series. His lightning-fast movements, devastating attacks, and unique character design are sure to be brought to life with stunning animation. Kashimo’s participation in the Culling Game raises the stakes considerably, and his clash with other leading characters will create some of the most tense scenes of the season.

1) Hiromi Higuruma

Hiromi Higuruma, the former lawyer turned sorcerer, is arguably one of the most intellectually fascinating and complex characters introduced in the Culling Game and in the series as a whole, making him our top pick for Jujutsu Kaisen Season 3. His cursed technique, Judgeman, forces his opponents into a courtroom-like domain where their guilt or innocence is determined through legal lanes. If found guilty, their cursed technique is confiscated or they face the death penalty. This unique ability leads to incredibly high-stakes and thought-provoking battles.

Higuruma’s internal struggles with justice, his sharp intellect, and the deep impact of his cursed technique on both himself and his opponents make him an incredibly layered character. The intricate details of his domain expansion and the psychological battles that unfold within it will surely be some of the most captivating moments and memorable arcs of the Culling Game. 

The post 10 Anticipated Jujutsu Kaisen Characters We Can’t Wait to See in Season 3, Ranked appeared first on ComicBook.com.

Jujutsu Kaisen is known for its thrilling action, detailed power system, and, perhaps most notably, its readiness to kill off beloved characters. While many shonen series shy away from permanent consequences, Jujutsu Kaisen embraces them, leading to some of the most genuinely shocking and heartbreaking moments in anime and manga. These deaths aren’t just plot devices; they deepen the emotional stakes, advance the storyline for the major players (especially Yuji Itadori), and, in many cases, fundamentally alter the course of the story.

Warning: Major Spoilers Ahead for the Jujutsu Kaisen Anime & Manga!

The impact of the loss of these characters extends far beyond the page or screen, sparking intense debates and emotional reactions among the fandom. From sudden, brutal ends to drawn-out, tragic farewells, these moments have left an enduring mark on viewers and readers alike, proving that in the world of Jujutsu Kaisen, no one is truly safe.

10) Mimiko and Nanako Hasaba

The deaths of twin sisters Mimiko and Nanako Hasaba were incredibly brutal and served as a harrowing reminder of the power of the curses and the cruelty of the Jujutsu Kaisen world. These two young curse users, whom Suguru Geto had sworn to protect and raised as his own, met a horrifying end at the hands of Sukuna during the Shibuya Incident. Their desperate attempts to free Geto’s body from Kenjaku’s control were ultimately dashed when they encountered Sukuna, who had taken control of Yuji Itadori’s body. Their deaths were particularly tragic, not only because of their youth and dedication to their father figure but because it drove home the ruthless nature of their enemy, as Sukuna slices the girls with minimal effort.

Their final moments, filled with despair and a longing for the original Geto and overwhelming fear of their killer, hit hard with fans who had hoped for a different outcome for these two loyal, though misguided, sisters. Their deaths are a prime example of the overwhelming and often unforgiving reality of the supernatural conflicts in the series, leaving a lasting impression of the danger faced by even those with cursed energy. It was a cruel irony that the very people Geto aimed to save ultimately became victims as a consequence of his own actions and his body being taken over, only to be obliterated by the King of Curses himself.

9) Yuki Tsukumo

Yuki Tsukumo’s death was a massive loss, not just for the characters within the story but also for the Jujutsu Kaisen fandom. As one of the few Special Grade Jujutsu Sorcerers and a passionate advocate for a world free of cursed spirits, her insights and unique power were invaluable. Her confrontation with Kenjaku was a high-stakes battle that put her unique abilities and unwavering resolve on display. Despite her strength and strategic brilliance, she ultimately fell at Kenjaku’s hand, making her death a crushing defeat for the jujutsu world.

Her death was particularly poignant because it was a significant setback in the fight against Kenjaku and his plans. Yuki had been a beacon of hope and a source of unique philosophical perspectives on jujutsu society. Her goal of eradicating cursed energy to prevent the birth of cursed spirits was a radical but compelling idea. Her death felt like the extinguishing of a major light in the battle against evil, leaving a void that would be difficult to fill and potential that was unused.

8) Choso

Choso’s death was a deeply emotional moment, made even more poignant by his complex relationship with Yuji Itadori. Initially an antagonist seeking revenge for his brothers, Choso’s perception shifted dramatically due to his unique blood connection with Yuji, which he genuinely believed made them brothers. His willingness to sacrifice himself to protect Yuji from Sukuna’s attack was a powerful display of his evolving loyalty and deep connection with his brother. 

The sheer selflessness of his act, despite his early actions against Yuji, caught many fans off guard and solidified his place as a fan-favorite character. His death was yet another example of the impact Yuji has on those around him and the often unpredictable nature of alliances and relationships within Jujutsu Kaisen. Choso’s journey from vengeful enemy to devoted brother is one of the series’ most compelling character arcs, making his sacrifice incredibly impactful.

7) Mechamaru

Kokichi Muta, also known as Mechamaru, met a truly tragic end that raised the stakes for everyone going forward and showed the brutal consequences of making deals with the enemy. Suffering from a debilitating illness, he secretly betrayed the Jujutsu High students by leaking information to Mahito and Geto in exchange for a healthy body. Despite his desire to finally live a normal life and interact with his friends without the constant pain, his actions ultimately led to his death. His final stand against Mahito fought with a fully functioning body and a lifetime of pent-up frustration, was a desperate and ultimately futile attempt at redemption.

Mechamaru’s death was particularly traumatizing because it was born out of desperation and a longing for a normal life that was cruelly taken away from him, especially at such a young age and with Miwa waiting for him. His betrayal, while understandable given his circumstances, came with a heavy price. The sight of his powerful ultimate Mechamaru being destroyed and his body being brutally crushed by Mahito was an unforgiving reminder of the dangers of playing both sides. It was a heartbreaking conclusion to a character whose motivations, though flawed, were deeply human and relatable.

6) Toji Fushiguro

Toji Fushiguro’s first death was a shocking turn of events that served as an example of his incredible power and resourcefulness as the “Sorcerer Killer.” Despite having no cursed energy, his unparalleled physical abilities, and mastery of cursed tools allowed him to single-handedly incapacitate both Satoru Gojo and Suguru Geto, two of the strongest sorcerers of their generation. His seemingly unkillable nature and ruthless efficiency made his eventual defeat by a newly awakened Gojo all the more impactful, marking a pivotal moment in Gojo’s growth.

His second, more definitive death during the Shibuya Incident, after being reanimated, was arguably even more tragic. Having regained a semblance of his former self and recognizing his son Megumi, his brief moment of paternal instinct led him to take his own life rather than continue as a puppet. This act of self-sacrifice, driven by an uncharacteristic flicker of care for his son, added a layer of complexity to his character that solidified his place as one of the series’ most compelling and tragic figures. His story is a testament to the idea that even the most hardened people can be swayed by the bonds of family.

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10 Best Jujutsu Kaisen Cursed Techniques, Ranked

5) Suguru Geto

The real Suguru Geto’s death at the hands of Satoru Gojo was a somber and poignant moment in Jujutsu Kaisen 0, marking the tragic end of a once-unbreakable friendship. After his descent into extremism and his massacre of non-sorcerers as a cult leader, Geto became the primary target for Jujutsu Tech higher-ups. Gojo, despite his deep love for his former best friend, was forced to end his life with his own hands. Their final exchange was filled with unspoken emotions and shared history, making Geto’s demise a bittersweet and heartbreaking conclusion to his wayward path.

However, the true traumatizing impact of Geto’s death on the fandom came with the revelation that his body had been taken over by the ancient sorcerer Kenjaku. This twist not only resurrected the threat of Geto’s talents as a Special Grade sorcerer but also twisted his legacy into something even more sinister. The sight of Kenjaku manipulating Geto’s corpse, using his abilities and even his voice, was deeply unsettling and disrespectful to the character’s memory and was the only thing that could shake the seemingly invincible Gojo. The desecration of Geto’s body and identity made his story far more tragic than a simple death ever could have been.

4) Mai Zenin

Mai Zenin’s death was a truly devastating moment in Jujutsu Kaisen, and was a tragic culmination to the Zenin clan’s oppressive traditions, violence, and Mai’s own internal struggles. Burdened by her very low amounts of cursed energy and inferior fighting skills as compared to her twin sister, Maki, Mai constantly felt inferior and trapped within the clan’s rigid hierarchy. Her ultimate sacrifice, where she poured all of her cursed energy into Maki to help her achieve her true potential and break free from the clan’s curse, was a tearjerking act of love and selflessness.

Her death was a brutal example of the consequences of a clan that devalues individuals based on their innate abilities. Mai’s final moments, where she urged Maki to destroy everything that held them back, were incredibly powerful and set Maki on a path of revenge and liberation. It was a heartbreaking farewell that solidified her legacy as a character who, despite her imagined weaknesses, found immense strength in her love for her sister and her desire for a better future, even if she couldn’t live to see it.

3) Junpei Yoshino

Junpei Yoshino’s death is arguably one of the worst, most brutal, and emotionally scarring moments in Jujutsu Kaisen, particularly for Yuji Itadori. Junpei, a bullied and misunderstood high school student, was tragically manipulated by Mahito, who exploited his despair and anger to turn him against humanity. Yuji, seeing a kindred spirit in Junpei and hoping to save him, desperately tried to reach out and guide Junpei away from Mahito’s influence. The tragic irony was that just as Yuji seemed to be making a connection, Mahito brutally transformed Junpei into a grotesque cursed spirit, leading to his agonizing death.

This death traumatized the fandom because it was a direct attack on Yuji’s innocence and his core belief in saving people. The suddenness and cruelty of Junpei’s transformation left both Yuji and the audience reeling. It was a raw and unfiltered depiction of the senseless violence and manipulative evil that existed in the jujutsu world, proving that even those who are not sorcerers can be dragged into its horrors. Junpei’s death served as a harsh wake-up call for Yuji, emphasizing the high stakes and the emotional toll of the battles that were in store for him.

2) Satoru Gojo

Satoru Gojo’s death sent shockwaves through the Jujutsu Kaisen fandom, becoming one of the most talked-about and controversial moments in the entire series. As the undisputed strongest sorcerer and a seemingly invincible force, Gojo’s defeat at the hands of Sukuna was a moment that felt almost impossible. His battle against Sukuna was hyped as the pinnacle of power in the series, and his eventual death, particularly the abrupt and brutal manner in which it was carried out, left many fans stunned and heartbroken.

The immediate aftermath saw an outpouring of grief, disbelief, and intense debate across social media. Fans grappled with the loss of a character who was not only incredibly powerful but also charismatic, complex, and deeply beloved. Gojo’s death fundamentally altered the landscape of the Jujutsu Kaisen world, stripping away its greatest protector and leaving the remaining characters to face an even more overwhelming threat. It was a moment that redefined the series’ stakes and solidified its reputation for unflinching brutality, cementing its place as the most impactful death for many.

1) Kento Nanami

Kento Nanami’s death stands as the most emotionally devastating and widely mourned moment in Jujutsu Kaisen. A fan-favorite for his no-nonsense attitude, relatable cynicism, and underlying kindness, Nanami’s death during the Shibuya Incident was nothing short of horrific. Severely injured and already at his limits, he was brutally confronted by Mahito, who then brought him to a horrific, agonizing end right in front of a helpless Yuji Itadori. His final words, entrusting his will and the future to Yuji, made the moment even more heartbreaking.

The trauma of Nanami’s death stemmed from several factors: his popularity, the sheer brutality of his end, his dream of a future he would never have, and the impact it had on Yuji. For many, Nanami represented a grounded, adult presence in a chaotic world, and his loss felt like the loss of a guiding figure. His death solidified Mahito as a truly despicable villain and it became a pivotal moment in Yuji’s character development, pushing him to new depths of despair and resolve. It’s a scene that continues to haunt fans, leaving us all wishing that Nanami had made it to that beach in Malaysia.

The post 10 Worst Traumatizing Jujutsu Kaisen Deaths That Split the Fandom appeared first on ComicBook.com.

Jujutsu Kaisen has captivated audiences with its intricate power system, where sorcerers and cursed spirits wield unique and devastating abilities known as Cursed Techniques. These powers, born from cursed energy, manifest in many different ways, from manipulating blood and sound to warping space and summoning powerful Shikigami. The strategic depth and destructive potential of these techniques can sometimes save lives, but also wreak massive amounts of havoc in the wrong hands. Fans are constantly debating which techniques reign supreme, considering their versatility, raw power, and how effective they are in the heat of battle. Let’s explore the ten best Cursed Techniques that have left their mark on the world of Jujutsu Kaisen, ranked by their overall impact and awe-factor.

10) Boogie Woogie

A seemingly simple yet incredibly effective Cursed Technique, Boogie Woogie allows Aoi Todo to swap the positions of anything or anyone with cursed energy within his range by clapping his hands. This technique’s power lies not in raw destructive force, but in its tactical versatility. Todo can use it to instantly close distances, evade attacks, reposition allies or enemies, and even swap places with inanimate objects imbued with cursed energy, creating unpredictable and disorienting combat scenarios for his foes.

Its effectiveness is heavily reliant on the user’s intelligence and adaptability, which is why the technique is befitting of Todo’s brilliant tactical mind. He can chain multiple swaps in rapid succession, creating complex fakeouts and openings that leave opponents bewildered and vulnerable. Boogie Woogie transforms the battlefield into a dynamic puzzle, where every clap can completely alter the flow of battle, making it a nightmare for opponents to predict and counter.

9) Cursed Speech

The Inumaki family’s inherited Cursed Technique, Cursed Speech, imbues the user’s words with cursed energy and forces anyone who hears them to obey commands. This technique is incredibly powerful due to its absolute nature, as it is capable of instantly incapacitating opponents with commands like “Stop” or “Sleep,” or even inflicting severe damage with more aggressive words like “Explode” or “Twist.” The sheer mental and physical toll it takes on the user means that even simple phrases must be chosen carefully to avoid self-harm.

Despite its nearly unlimited power, Cursed Speech comes with significant drawbacks. The stronger the command, the greater the recoil on the user’s throat and body, making sustained use dangerous. This limitation forces users like Toge Inumaki to communicate in rice ball ingredients to avoid accidentally activating his technique and affecting those around him. Nonetheless, its ability to instantly neutralize threats or dictate battlefield conditions makes Cursed Speech a formidable and unique power.

8) Blood Manipulation

Inherited by the Kamo clan, Blood Manipulation grants the user precise control over their own blood, both inside and outside their body. This technique allows for a wide array of offensive and defensive maneuvers, from hardening blood for defensive barriers to shaping it into projectiles like “Slicing Exorcism,” or manipulating its flow within an opponent’s body. The versatility stems from the very nature of blood itself, allowing for both precise, surgical strikes and wide-area attacks.

Users can also enhance their physical capabilities by manipulating their blood flow, increasing speed, strength, and durability, as seen with Choso physically reinforcing his body’s very defense system. The technique requires a deep understanding of human physiology and a constant supply of blood, which can be a limiting factor in battles that last longer. Despite this, the sheer adaptability of Blood Manipulation, capable of both overwhelming offense and agile defense, makes it a truly exceptional Cursed Technique.

7) Ratio Technique

Kento Nanami’s unique Cursed Technique, Ratio, allows him to identify and exploit the “seven-to-three” ratio point on a target’s body. By conceptually dividing an opponent into ten parts and targeting the 7:3 ratio point, Nanami can create a critical weak spot that he can then strike for guaranteed critical damage, regardless of the target’s natural strength. This bypasses conventional defenses and allows him to inflict devastating blows on even the toughest cursed spirits and sorcerers.

The strength of Ratio lies in its consistent critical hits, turning every successful attack into a potentially finishing blow. It prioritizes precision and tactical understanding over raw power, rewarding a user’s ability to create openings and land accurate strikes. While not as flashy as some other techniques, Ratio’s consistent damage output and ability to bypass even the strongest enemy’s resilience make Nanami a formidable fighter and worthy of being a Grade 1 Sorcerer.

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6) Cursed Spirit Manipulation

Suguru Geto’s dark, yet incredibly powerful Cursed Technique, Cursed Spirit Manipulation, gives him the ability to absorb and control cursed spirits after defeating them. He can then summon these spirits at will to fight on his behalf, creating a terrifying army of diverse abilities. This technique allows Geto to adapt to any combat situation by calling on spirits with specific strengths, from close-range brawlers to long-range attackers or even those with supportive capabilities.

The true horror and power of Cursed Spirit Manipulation lie in its expansive nature; the more powerful spirits Geto absorbs, the stronger his overall arsenal becomes. He can even combine spirits to unleash devastating attacks, such as the Maximum: Uzumaki, which compresses multiple cursed spirits into a single, high-density cursed energy blast. This technique effectively turns Geto into a one-man army, making him an overwhelming force on the battlefield.

5) Dismantle/Cleave

Ryomen Sukuna’s signature Cursed Techniques, Dismantle and Cleave, are incredibly versatile and destructive cutting attacks. Dismantle is a default, un-targeted slash that can be used rapidly and repeatedly and is capable of slicing targets with precision. Cleave, on the other hand, is an adjustable cutting attack that adapts to the target’s cursed energy and durability, allowing Sukuna to cut through virtually anything with ease, from hardened cursed spirits to concrete structures.

These techniques, especially when combined with Sukuna’s immense cursed energy, make him a truly terrifying opponent. He can unleash overwhelming invisible slashes that can decimate entire areas, like all of Shibuya, or finely dissect individual targets. The adaptability of Cleave means that the stronger the opponent, the more potent the cut becomes, making these techniques effective against nearly any threat in the Jujutsu Kaisen universe.

4) Rika Manifestation

Special Grade Sorcerer Yuta Okkotsu’s Cursed Technique, Rika Manifestation, allows him to fully manifest the incredibly powerful cursed spirit Rika Orimoto. Rika, in her fully manifested state, is a near endless wellspring of cursed energy, capable of unleashing devastating attacks and acting as a defense that is almost impossible to bypass. Yuta can draw upon Rika’s vast cursed energy to amplify his own techniques, copy other cursed techniques, and enhance his own physical attacks to an incredible degree.

The true strength of Rika Manifestation lies in Rika’s boundless cursed energy and her unique ability to store and deploy other Cursed Techniques that Yuta has seen in action. This makes Yuta an incredibly adaptable and dangerous sorcerer, able to unleash a diverse collection of techniques alongside Rika’s overwhelming offensive and defensive abilities. She is not just a tool but a sentient force, fiercely loyal and utterly destructive.

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10 Best Jujutsu Kaisen Domain Expansions, Ranked

3) Straw Doll

Nobara Kugisaki’s Straw Doll Cursed Technique allows her to inflict damage on an opponent by attacking a straw doll that is connected to them through a resonance. By attaching a part of the opponent’s body (like hair or blood) into a straw doll and creating an effigy of her opponent, Nobara can then hammer nails into the doll, and the damage will be reflected onto the target, regardless of distance or physical barriers. This makes her a dangerous and effective long-range attacker.

The power of Straw Doll is in its indirect nature and ability to bypass otherwise conventional defenses. As long as Nobara has a link to her target, she can inflict damage, making it more or less impossible for opponents to defend against. Furthermore, Nobara can directly imbue her hammer with cursed energy for close-range attacks, and her “Resonance” ability allows her to create a direct link to an opponent, making her an essential factor in battles against even the toughest enemy.

2) Ten Shadows

The Zenin family’s inherited Cursed Technique, Ten Shadows, allows the user to summon up to ten different Shikigami from their shadows. These Shikigami each have different and versatile abilities, ranging from the Divine Dogs that track and attack, to the powerful and destructive Great Serpent, and the terrifyingly durable Eight-Handed Divergent Sila Divine General Mahoraga. The user can also manipulate shadows themselves for other purposes as well, including storage and transportation.

The true strength of Ten Shadows lies in its adaptability and the power of its various Shikigami. Users can summon multiple Shikigami at the same time to create complex combat strategies and overwhelm opponents with numbers (like with Megumi’s rabbits) or utilize specific Shikigami for specialized tasks. The technique comes to a very dangerous head in the ability to tame Mahoraga, a Shikigami capable of adapting to and overcoming anything, making it an almost unstoppable force.

1) Limitless

Satoru Gojo’s unparalleled Cursed Technique, Limitless, in conjunction with his Six Eyes, stands at the absolute pinnacle of Jujutsu Kaisen’s power system. Limitless grants Gojo absolute control over space, allowing him to manipulate it at an atomic level. This manifests in abilities like Infinity, which creates an infinitely shrinking space between Gojo and anything approaching him, effectively making him untouchable, and Cursed Technique Lapse: Blue, which affects gravitational pull.

Furthermore, the Six Eyes is a rare inherited trait that gives Gojo enhanced perception and the ability to process vast amounts of information and cursed energy with incredible efficiency. This allows him to utilize Limitless with minimal cursed energy consumption and to perceive cursed energy flows in even the most microscopic detail. The combination of these two techniques makes Gojo virtually omnipotent, capable of both absolute defense and overwhelming offense, cementing his status as the strongest sorcerer.

The post 10 Best Jujutsu Kaisen Cursed Techniques, Ranked appeared first on ComicBook.com.

Jujutsu Kaisen’s newest movie, a compilation of the Hidden Inventory/Premature Death Arc, has finally made its debut in Japanese theaters and is already quite a hit. Though the movie compiles most of the same content from Season 2 of the anime, the chance to re-experience Gojo and Geto’s backstory in theaters, plus the promise of new content at the end has Jujutsu Kaisen fans lining up in Japan. In fact, the film grossed 198 million yen or 1.39 million USD in its opening week, ranking fourth at the Japanese box office, and this is even before the North American release, which is set for July 16th, 2025.

As if this weren’t enough to excite North American and other international fans for the film’s release, one of Jujutsu Kaisen’s stars just hyped the ending even further, stating how it made even her cry. At the premiere event for the opening of Jujutsu Kaisen: Hidden Inventory/Premature Death in Japanese theaters, Aya Endo, the voice of Shoko Ieri, commented on the newly added scenes in the ending of the film, saying, “I ended up crying so much—it was overwhelming.” Endo added, “But I’m glad we got to see those joyful memories. It really made me feel that the characters had truly lived their lives,” hinting that the new ending may be a montage of the trio’s happy memories together, or something of the sort.

[RELATED: Jujutsu Kaisen Has a Big Update Coming Soon]

Jujutsu Kaisen Voice Actors Hype New Hidden Inventory Movie

Besides Aya Endo, the premiere event was also attended by Yuchi Nakamura, the voice of Gojo, Takahiro Sakurai, the voice of Geto, and, of course, Anna Nagase, the voice of Riko Amanai, with each expressing their views on the film. Admittedly, this film was quite a risk, given that it is at its core a compilation of the first arc of Season 2 of Jujutsu Kaisen, which aired back in 2023. Even Nakamura, Gojo’s voice actor, acknowledged this at the premiere event, saying:

“It’s a tricky situation. The series already aired on TV and is available on various streaming platforms. We re-edited everything for this version, but we weren’t sure how interested people would be in seeing it again in this new form.”

However, judging by the overwhelmingly positive reception the film has received so far, it’s clear that the Hidden Inventory movie does have something unique to offer. Even Nagase, the voice behind Riko, hyped the movie at the premiere event, commenting, “This film isn’t just sad—it’s truly beautiful. It’s something you’ll want to watch again and again.”

Overall, from being a refresher before Season 3 of Jujutsu Kaisen drops, to seeing more of Gojo, Geto, and Shoko in their youth, to a fun new Juju-stroll and a beautifully bittersweet ending scene that will leave fans in tears, there are plenty of reasons to look forward to Jujutsu Kaisen’s new Hidden Inventory movie. Luckily for fans in North America, July 16th is just around the corner, with just over a month to go.

Source: Oricon

The post “I Ended Up Crying So Much”: Jujutsu Kaisen Star Hypes New Movie Ending appeared first on ComicBook.com.

Jujutsu Kaisen‘s protagonist, Yuji Itadori, is an unconventional choice for a shonen lead, especially when compared to the genre’s typical heroes, characters who are outspoken about their dreams and relentlessly pursue them. This deviation from the norm has led many fans to question why Yuji was selected as the main character, especially when others like Megumi Fushiguro seem to better fit the traditional mold. Some even argue that Gojo Satoru feels more like the central hero. From the beginning, Yuji’s ability to harbor Ryomen Sukuna without a clear explanation felt like a narrative decision made on the fly.

However, as the story nears its climax, the reasoning behind Gege Akutami’s choice of Yuji as the protagonist becomes clearer. While Jujutsu Kaisen distinguishes itself within the shonen genre through its darker tone and willingness to kill off major characters, it still adheres to the core structure of classic shonen, especially with how most shonen series craft their protagonists with a predestined journey. This is what Chapter 257 of Jujutsu Kaisen does, revealing a critical detail that aligns Yuji with a predestined role to defeat Sukuna, ultimately justifying his position as the series’ true main hero.

[RELATED: Here is How Jujutsu Kaisen’s Sukuna Became A Villain (And It’s Tragic)]

Despite Being an Odd Choice, Yuji Was Aligned With the Most Traditional Shonen Hero Mold

In Jujutsu Kaisen Chapter 257, amid the final battle between the sorcerers and Sukuna, a flashback unfolds featuring a conversation between Sukuna and Uraume. Uraume notes that Yuji possesses an aura strikingly similar to Sukuna’s, suggesting it goes beyond him merely being Sukuna’s former vessel. Sukuna then offers a speculative explanation that all but confirms Yuji has a soul akin to his own. He reveals that he was nearly born a twin but consumed his other half in the womb, probably due to a lack of nutrition from their mother. Sukuna goes on to theorize that the lingering remnants of his twin’s soul eventually merged with Kenjaku and resulted in the birth of Yuji.

With the prior revelation that Yuji’s mother was under Kenjaku’s control, it becomes clear that Yuji’s father likely carried the fragment of Sukuna’s soul, which was passed to Yuji at birth. Considering Kenjaku’s centuries-long planning for the Culling Games, it’s highly probable that Yuji’s very existence was engineered so he could serve as a player with Sukuna’s vessel during the Culling Games, as only someone with a similar soul could contain him. Although Yuji fulfilled this purpose far earlier than Kenjaku intended, it highlights Gege Akutami’s intricate storytelling; however, ultimately, it frames Yuji as a classic shonen hero, one who was destined from the beginning to save the world.

Jujutsu Kaisen manga is available to read on Viz Media and Manga Plus.

The post Jujutsu Kaisen Has a Specific Reason Why It Chose Yuji as Its Main Hero appeared first on ComicBook.com.

In the world of Jujutsu Kaisen, Domain Expansions represent the pinnacle of jujutsu sorcery; a testament to a sorcerer’s power, ingenuity, and understanding of cursed energy. These self-contained realities manifest their user’s innate domain, imbuing their techniques with guaranteed hit effects and amplifying their abilities to devastating levels.

From inescapable voids that dismantle their foes’ very existence to intricate battlefields that bend the rules of combat, Domain Expansions are not just attacks — they are declarations of dominance, forcing opponents into a fight on the caster’s terms. The activation of a Domain Expansion signifies a drastic shift, often leading to a swift and decisive conclusion to even the most intense battles. Let’s delve into the 10 best Domain Expansions from both the Jujutsu Kaisen anime and manga, based on their raw power, unique applications, and strategic brilliance.

10) Self-Embodiment of Perfection

Mahito’s Self-Embodiment of Perfection is a chilling and incredibly dangerous Domain Expansion, as it grants him a guaranteed hit of his Innate Technique, Idle Transfiguration. Within this domain, Mahito can instantly touch the soul of anyone caught inside, regardless of physical proximity, allowing him to deform their bodies, inflict excruciating pain, or even kill them with a single touch. The nature of his technique, which directly manipulates the shape of the soul, bypasses conventional physical and cursed energy defenses.

The absolute nature of Self-Embodiment of Perfection makes it a terrifying ultimate move. Once trapped, a victim’s fate is sealed unless they possess a unique ability to counter soul manipulation. Mahito can reshape an opponent into grotesque forms or simply extinguish their life force in an instant. This domain is a reflection of his cruelty and the destructive potential of his cursed technique, making him a true existential threat to anyone who faces him.

9) Horizon of the Captivating Skandha

Dagon’s Horizon of the Captivating Skandha creates an idyllic, beach-like paradise that is a striking contrast to the brutal nature of most Domain Expansions. Within this serene environment, Dagon unleashes an infinite barrage of deadly aquatic Shikigami, including fish-like creatures and tentacled beasts, all with guaranteed hit effects. The domain’s aesthetic beauty hides its lethal effectiveness, as the constant, overwhelming attacks from all directions leave targets with virtually no escape.

The strength of this domain lies in its relentless and unavoidable offensive output. The sheer number of Shikigami Dagon can summon, combined with their guaranteed hits, makes it incredibly difficult for even powerful sorcerers to defend against. The beautiful yet treacherous environment further disorients opponents, turning a tranquil scene into a deadly trap where they are drowned in a sea of unending cursed creatures.

8) Coffin of the Iron Mountain

Jogo’s Coffin of the Iron Mountain is a highly destructive and intensely hot Domain Expansion that traps opponents within a volcanic landscape. Within this domain, the temperature reaches extreme levels, burning everything within its confines. Jogo also gains control over lava and volcanic eruptions, allowing him to launch powerful, inescapable attacks that incinerate his enemies. The intense heat alone is enough to severely damage or even kill weaker opponents.

The destructive power and inescapable nature of Coffin of the Iron Mountain make it a difficult domain to beat. The extreme temperatures and constant onslaught of lava and volcanic attacks create an environment where survival is incredibly difficult. Opponents are forced to contend with both Jogo’s attacks and the scorching environment itself, making it a truly hellish experience for anyone caught within its fiery grasp.

7) Yuji Itadori’s Unnamed Domain

Yuji Itadori’s unnamed Domain Expansion manifested during his climactic battle with Sukuna, is a devastating ability that directly targets and dismantles the very soul of his opponents. Unlike other domains that aim for physical destruction or sensory overload, Yuji’s domain operates on a fundamental, existential level, delivering strikes that bypass conventional defenses to attack the essence of a being. This unique property makes it exceptionally effective against opponents on Sukuna’s level, as it bypasses their physical durability and cursed energy reinforcement, striking at their core.

The power of this domain lies in its ability to inflict damage that is difficult, if not impossible, to heal, as it impacts the soul directly. This puts opponents at a disadvantage, forcing them to contend with an attack that they cannot block by any physical means. It represents a terrifying evolution of Yuji’s innate ability to interact with and harm souls, honed through his experiences and unique connection to Sukuna.

6) Idle Death Gamble

Kinji Hakari’s Idle Death Gamble is a highly unconventional, unpredictable, and amusing Domain Expansion that operates like a pachinko machine. Within this domain, Hakari initiates a series of real-life gambling simulations. If he hits a “jackpot,” he gains an infinite amount of cursed energy for a short period and his body automatically regenerates, making him essentially immortal. The success of the jackpot is dependent on a complex set of rules, adding an element of chance to his fighting style.

The unpredictability and the potential for a virtually unbeatable Hakari make Idle Death Gamble incredibly dangerous. When Hakari hits a jackpot, he becomes an unstoppable force, regenerating from any injury almost instantly and unleashing a continuous torrent of cursed energy. This allows him to fight relentlessly without concern for damage, overwhelming his opponents through resilience and overwhelming offensive output.

RELATED: 10 Best Jujutsu Kaisen Episodes to Get Excited for Season 3

5) Deadly Sentencing

Hiromi Higuruma’s Deadly Sentencing is a truly unique and intricate Domain Expansion that turns combat into a courtroom drama. Within this domain, both Higuruma and his opponent are subject to a trial overseen by a Shikigami known as Judgeman. This trial investigates any past crimes committed by the opponent, and based on the verdict, Judgeman imposes penalties. These penalties can range from the confiscation of cursed techniques and cursed tools to even the death penalty, making it a highly unpredictable and dangerous domain.

The brilliance of Deadly Sentencing lies in its ability to strip away an opponent’s advantages and even condemn them without direct combat. It forces the opponent to confront their past actions and relies on legalistic arguments rather than brute force which is something unique in the world of jujutsu sorcery. The potential for Judgeman to confiscate cursed techniques or even execute the opponent makes it a terrifyingly effective domain, especially against those with a history of wrongdoing.

4) Chimera Shadow Garden

Megumi Fushiguro’s Chimera Shadow Garden is a unique and evolving Domain Expansion that allows him to manifest a vast, workable pool of shadows. Within this domain, Megumi gains enhanced control over his Shikigami, able to summon multiple at once, merge them, and even hide within the shadows themselves. The environment becomes a fluid extension of his cursed technique, providing both offensive and defensive capabilities. The shadows allow him to create decoys, trap opponents, and launch surprise attacks from any angle.

The strategic depth and versatility of Chimera Shadow Garden are its greatest strengths. Megumi can manipulate the battlefield to his advantage, using shadows to obscure vision, create openings, and unleash his Shikigami with unparalleled precision. The ability to hide and launch attacks from unexpected angles makes it incredibly difficult for opponents to track him, turning the domain into a deadly game of cat and mouse where Megumi holds all the cards.

3) Malevolent Shrine

Ryomen Sukuna’s Malevolent Shrine is a unique and terrifying Domain Expansion, as it doesn’t create a closed barrier like most of the others, but rather manifests an open space that covers a vast area. Within this domain, Sukuna unleashes his two primary slashing attacks, Cleave and Dismantle, with guaranteed hit effects. Cleave adjusts itself based on the opponent’s toughness, while Dismantle is a basic slashing attack, cutting his enemies into pieces. The open nature of the domain allows Sukuna to damage everything within its effective range, including buildings and the environment, making it incredibly destructive.

The destructive power and indiscriminate nature of Malevolent Shrine are what make it so fearsome. It doesn’t trap opponents but instead carves them up within a wide radius. The guaranteed hit effect of his slashes means that anyone caught within the domain is subjected to a relentless onslaught of incredibly sharp and precise cuts, often leading to immediate dismemberment and death. Its open nature also makes it difficult to counter by conventional domain expansion means.

2) Authentic Mutual Love

Yuta Okkotsu’s Authentic Mutual Love is a highly versatile Domain Expansion that manifests as a literal reflection of his boundless love and connection with Rika. Within this domain, Yuta gains access to an infinite number of katanas, each imbued with a copy of a cursed technique he has previously copied. This allows him to unleash a barrage of diverse and powerful attacks, adapting to any situation with incredible flexibility. The domain also amplifies his cursed energy output, making the outcome of his already devastating attacks even worse.

What sets Authentic Mutual Love apart is its incredible adaptability and the sheer offensive pressure it creates. Yuta can unleash a relentless assault of various cursed techniques, keeping his opponents on their toes and exploiting any weakness. The volume of attacks and the ability to combine different techniques make Yuta’s domain incredibly difficult to defend against, showcasing Yuta’s mastery and the terrifying potential of his cursed technique.

1) Unlimited Void

Satoru Gojo’s Unlimited Void is arguably the most overwhelming Domain Expansion in Jujutsu Kaisen, directly attacking the opponent’s brain with an infinite amount of information. This sensory overload paralyzes the victim, leaving them utterly defenseless and unable to process anything. The sheer scale of information is so immense that it brings the target to a complete halt, rendering them catatonic and susceptible to any attack Gojo chooses to inflict. It’s not a domain that deals direct damage in the conventional sense but rather incapacitates its targets on a fundamental level, making any subsequent attack a guaranteed hit and an easy kill.

The true terror of Unlimited Void lies in its inescapable nature and the psychological damage it inflicts. Victims are not just stunned; their minds are overwhelmed to the point of breaking, experiencing an eternity of knowledge in a fleeting moment in a space-like dimension. This makes it an almost unbeatable technique, as once a target is caught within its confines, their defeat is all but guaranteed. Its efficiency and absolute nature make Unlimited Void the strongest Domain Expansion in Jujutsu Kaisen, a perfect fit for the strongest and most storied sorcerer of the series’ modern era.

The post 10 Best Jujutsu Kaisen Domain Expansions, Ranked appeared first on ComicBook.com.

Jujutsu Kaisen‘s new movie comes to North America in July, putting the series’ most special quality on the big screen. The mouthful proper name of the film―Jujutsu Kaisen: Hidden Inventory / Premature Death – The Movie―isn’t shy about giving the game away. The compilation film won’t bring anything new to fans of the anime: it’s a recap of the “Hidden Inventory / Premature Death” arc.

That isn’t to say that fans don’t have a reason to be excited. The backstory arc works well as a standalone. Beyond that, it can provide a provocative jumping-off point to those who haven’t yet watched the anime. Whether one is new to the franchise or just celebrating their favorite series at the cinema for once, the film’s focus on Satoru Gojo and Suguru Geto’s relationship will show off Jujutsu Kaisen‘s most valuable asset (and it probably isn’t what you’re thinking).

The New Jujutsu Kaisen Movie Covers Gojo and Geto’s Origins

For the uninitiated: the “Hidden Inventory / Premature Death” arc dives deep into the circumstances of Gojo and Geto’s friendship, and it also explains the trajectory of each as sorcerers. Gojo and Geto are both prodigal students at Jujutsu High; Gojo is haughty and full of himself, with little direct concern for the stated mission of sorcerers in protecting humanity, while Geto is greatly concerned with the moral dimension of sorcery.

Their early dynamics are explored as they first grate one another, then come around to each other. Over the course of an escort mission, the two grow close with a non-sorcerer who is meant to be sacrificed in order to strengthen Master Tengen’s barrier. The mission goes awry in the end because of fan-favorite non-sorcerer Toji Fushigoro‘s intervention; the escorted non-sorcerer, well, prematurely dies. Both Geto and Gojo have their commitments deeply challenged.

Gojo, on one hand, is humiliated in battle, which makes him reconsider his sense of superiority. Meanwhile, Geto is devastated by the circumstances of their escortee’s death, which make him doubt the motivations of the non-sorcerers that sorcerers are sworn to protect if they’ll kill one another over something as transient as money. (Geto is also motivated by the fact that sorcerers toil thanklessly against the curses non-sorcerers proliferate through their lack of control over cursed energy.)

Through his stubborn egoism, Gojo grows stronger and becomes firmer than ever in his commitment to protecting non-sorcerers; Geto, on the other hand, becomes militantly opposed to non-sorcerers, dedicated to creating a world where only sorcerers exist.

Gojo and Geto Establish Themes That Dominate Jujutsu Kaisen

What Jujutsu Kaisen illustrates better than any other shonen, and which is abundantly clear in the arbitrary circumstances of Gojo and Geto’s respective ideological shifts, is a sense of contingency. Gojo doesn’t become humanity’s strongest, most steadfast protector out of a sense of nobility, but out of a sense of humiliation after a chance encounter. On the other hand, it’s precisely the transformation of Geto’s moralism through the death of a non-sorcerer he cared about that leads him to be a “villain” ardently against non-sorcerers.

Chance and contingency are everywhere in Jujutsu Kaisen, starting with Yuji’s own unpredictable consumption of a cursed finger and ending with the chance appearance of a certain character who turns the tides entirely in the series’ final battle. While it’s possible to read that sense of chance and contingency into any series out there, Jujutsu Kaisen pushes it to the forefront, and the upcoming “Hidden Inventory / Premature Death” film will highlight that in a neat little package.

[RELATED: Why You Must Watch Jujutsu Kaisen 0]

Jujutsu Kaisen Remains One Of Shonen’s Few Truly Ambiguous Stories, and That’s What Makes It Great

A badge of pride modern stories like to wear is “moral ambiguity”. Unfortunately, as seasoned RPG veterans know, there’s a wide gulf between a story where what’s “immoral” sometimes makes sense and a story where the difference between morality and immorality becomes, well, arbitrary―and therefore ambiguous.

In Jujutsu Kaisen‘s case, its dedication to chance and contingency as storytelling pillars makes every character deeply compelling. Even thoroughly detestable characters like Mahito are understandable once you grasp the soup of motivations and circumstances that led to his birth and that guide his viewpoint.

Those linger behind the surface in most shonen, but Jujutsu Kaisen teases them out for you just enough that they’re almost impossible not to think about. This emotional intelligence is arguably traceable to Naruto, which placed a tremendous emphasis on humanizing its characters. The difference between the pair, though, is that Naruto humanizes in a way that’s still idealistic and at times condescending; Jujutsu Kaisen is so insistent on its story of willpower and circumstance that it couldn’t condescend to its most wart-covered characters if it wanted to.

What makes the “Hidden Inventory / Premature Death” arc incredible comes down to the fluidity with which it shows the way actual people’s ideologies change. By attaching you to Gojo and Geto as a pair, when tragedy leads to divergent ideologies and (eventually) their separation, you feel it in your own heart. Then the human urge to investigate that feeling comes about, and you can’t hate anybody for how things played out.

At the heart of Jujutsu Kaisen is a call for understanding most other series couldn’t dream of―at least without dangerously equating empathy to support. That’s why every character is miles deep, even when their backstories are barely filled out; that’s why, with everyone fighting by the skin of their teeth for a fully believable (if sometimes utterly abominable) goal, the series enraptures viewers like few others can.

The post Jujutsu Kaisen’s New Movie Shows Exactly What Makes The Franchise Special appeared first on ComicBook.com.

As fans await the third season of the anime, MAPPA, the studio behind Jujutsu Kaisen, brings its beloved backstory to the theatres. Titled Jujutsu Kaisen: Hidden Inventory/Premature Death – The Movie, the film consists of the first five episodes of the anime’s second season, following the high school years of Satoru Gojo. The flashback takes place just before the Shibuya Incident Arc, answering all the questions from the prequel film about what went wrong between Gojo and Geto. The film was released in Japan on May 30th, 2025, and will hit the U.S. theatres on July 16th, 2025. With a few weeks away from the release date, fans are definitely curious about what the anime has in store for them.

After all, the compilation film not only features the fan-favorite backstory, but it also includes new and original scenes. The story remains the same, but we do get extra glimpses of Gojo and Geto’s past along with Shoko, who was their classmate. However, since anime and manga are always released in Japan before the rest of the world, leakers tend to share them on social media. These acts violate copyright infringement, and worst of all, they end up reaching a wider audience. When the JJK manga was serializing, most of the posts would hit millions of readers. However, the anime producers are way stricter than the manga publishers, and leakers are now facing serious trouble.

[RELATED: Jujutsu Kaisen Fans Can’t Miss Out on This Underrated Exorcist Series]

Jujutsu Kaisen’s Official Account Confirms Taking Action Against Leakers

The official account on X shared, “If copyright infringement occurs in violation of the Film Piracy Prevention Law or the Copyright Act, penalties may include up to 10 years imprisonment, or a fine of up to 10 million yen, or both.” They further add, “To ensure everyone can enjoy the movie safely, we kindly ask you to refrain from any unauthorized recording, posting, or sharing. Thank you for your cooperation.”

Additionally, a famous Jujutsu Kaisen fan account, Myamura aka @Go_Jover, which gained a massive following by sharing manga spoilers, warned fans against posting any scenes from the upcoming movie. The user later revealed that the film’s producers had taken legal action, including filing a court order to obtain the identities of individuals responsible for the leaks.

He shared a previous incident from last year involving Demon Slayer, where multiple accounts were exposed for distributing leaked content. Most of the accounts were deactivated or deleted after the court order. Many international users believed they were beyond the reach of legal consequences, but their posts quickly went viral, exposing the spoilers to nearly the entire JJK community.

While most of the time, these leakers don’t actually face the consequences, these measures are necessary to stop fans from illegally distributing the leaks. It’s not just Jujutsu Kaisen; even the Demon Slayer leakers have always been strict about their leaks. After the re-release of the Infinity Train in May 2025, the official account of Demon Slayer also shared a similar post when a few accounts recorded and posted the Infinity Castle trailer shown in the theatres.

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Jujutsu Kaisen, acclaimed for its intense action and solid lore, stands out as a unique and distinct manga within the shonen genre. It concluded with just 271 chapters in September of 2024. Due to its relatively short run, the series often feels riddled with plot holes that Gege Akutami never fully addressed. This is especially true when considering events such as the Heian period, which remains largely unexplored. It highlights how the manga could have continued longer, offering even deeper lore. Among the many ambiguous elements Jujutsu Kaisen left behind, Ryomen Sukuna’s descent into villainy is one of the most notable. As the series’ final antagonist, the lack of a detailed backstory for Sukuna feels like an oversight on Gege’s part.

Regardless of the narrative, a compelling villain is usually given a backstory that explains their transformation. Yet, Sukuna is rarely shown in flashbacks. However, it’s not entirely true that the series ignores his descent into darkness. Near the end, more specifically, after Gojo’s demise in his battle against Sukuna, the story begins to reveal subtle context through Sukuna’s own dialogue. By piecing together his statements, it becomes clear why Sukuna turned to villainy. Like many other antagonists, his fall is tragic and poignantly captures the core theme of the series.

[RELATED: Jujutsu Kaisen’s Best Backstory May Have Been a Dream All Along]

Sukuna’s Descent Into Villainy Was Destined From Birth

It is only twice that Jujutsu Kaisen features Sukuna mentioning his childhood, and both instances are crucial in understanding his descent into darkness. Sukuna first mentions his childhood to Hajime Kashimo, the lightning sorcerer, who was curious to know how Sukuna became the strongest. In Chapter 237 of Jujutsu Kaisen, Kashimo asks if Sukuna was born the strongest, and in response, Sukuna reveals that he was an “unwanted child.” This statement carries significant weight, especially when considering its original meaning and the deeper cultural implications in Japanese society. Some attentive fans interpreted Sukuna’s words more closely and suggested that he was referring to himself as a “creepy child.”

In Japanese culture, labeling someone a “creepy child” can imply that they were born disfigured or conjoined. While this could have been something that the fans were probably stretching and over-speculating, it isn’t until 20 chapters later that the series adds more gravity to this notion. In Chapter 257 of Jujutsu Kaisen, in a brief flashback with Uraume, Sukuna reflects on how Itadori Yuji is more than just a vessel to him, offering deeper insight into his nature. Sukuna reveals that he was almost born a twin, but he consumed his sibling in the womb, believing their mother was starving them. In an act of survival, he devoured his other half.

This chilling revelation reinforces the cultural implication of the “creepy child”, someone born deformed or as a conjoined twin, which Sukuna likely was, due to having absorbed his twin in the womb. Thus, from birth, he was likely seen as a “monster,” either by his mother or by society, which may have viewed him as a being who consumed human flesh. The fact that Sukuna has revealed that he has developed a taste for human flesh further highlights how indeed he became the monster that everyone feared him to be. This perfectly reflects Jujutsu Kaisen’s core theme: curses are born from the negative emotions and fears of humanity.

Child Neglect and Lack of Love Are the Main Factors in Sukuna’s Villainy

When Sukuna revealed that the reason he ate his twin was because his mother was starving, it suggests a troubled birth. This implies that Sukuna’s mother likely did not want children and that starving herself was her way of rejecting them. As a result, Sukuna, who was likely born disfigured or conjoined, may have been further neglected due to his condition. It’s a miracle that Sukuna survived childhood at all, but it is easy to interpret that he never experienced parental love. Tragically, this lack of affection likely led him to become philophobic. This idea is reinforced in the final chapter of the series, where Sukuna explains to Mahito why he chose the path of villainy.

Sukuna reveals that in life, he was presented with two choices: one with Yorozu, who was determined to teach him romantic love, and the other with Uraume, whom he viewed as a child and connected with through a form of parental love. Despite these options, Sukuna still chose to walk the path of evil, driven by his fear of being consumed by his own curse: his aversion to love. These elements highlight that Sukuna’s descent into villainy was, at its core, deeply tragic. Like many great villains, his story is rooted in pain and loss. Had Jujutsu Kaisen taken the time to fully explore this aspect of his backstory, more fans would likely have understood his actions, and, more importantly, it would have better conveyed the moral Gege Akutami intended to express through the manga.

Jujutsu Kaisen manga is available to read on Viz Media and Manga Plus.

The post Here is How Jujutsu Kaisen’s Sukuna Became A Villain (And It’s Tragic) appeared first on ComicBook.com.

Jujutsu Kaisen has captivated audiences worldwide with its fascinating characters, unique powers, and a story that masterfully blends dark fantasy with genuine emotional depth. Beyond the breathtaking animation and intense battles, the series is rich with memorable quotes that resonate long after the credits roll. From declarations of power to poignant reflections on humanity and curses, these lines often encapsulate the very essence of the characters who speak them and the brutal world they inhabit.

These lines are prime examples of Gege Akutami’s writing that continues to captivates fans. They offer glimpses into the philosophy of jujutsu sorcerers, the motivations of cursed spirits, and the complex relationships that drive the story forward. Let’s dive into ten of the most impactful and iconic quotes from Jujutsu Kaisen that have stuck with fans for years.

10) “Being a Child Is Not a Sin.”

This deeply empathetic line comes from Kento Nanami, a pragmatist and often weary jujutsu sorcerer. Speaking to Yuji Itadori, Nanami expresses a crucial understanding of Yuji’s immense burdens and the incredibly harsh realities he faces at a young age. Yuji is forced to confront horrific curses and make life-or-death decisions long before he should have to, stripping away what should be the most carefree years of his life.

The quote is a powerful affirmation of innocence and a subtle condemnation of the system that forces children into such dangerous roles. Nanami, often cynical, reveals a deep sense of compassion for the boy he has taken under his wing, recognizing that Yuji should be allowed to experience a normal childhood rather than being thrust into a brutal war. It highlights Nanami’s protective instincts and his desire for a more just world, where children are not victims of the fight against curses.

9) “You Cryin’?”

This sarcastic and taunting question is a signature line from Gojo Satoru, delivered with a casual yet cutting arrogance that immediately sets the tone for his teenage years in the Hidden Inventory arc. Delivered in Season 2, Episode 1 “Hidden Inventory/Premature Death,” this line quickly became a fan favorite and lit the internet ablaze, largely due to Kaiji Tang’s iconic delivery in the English dub. Gojo’s question is directed at his fellow classmate, Utahime — a woman he has been known to endlessly annoy in adulthood as well.

The quote serves to highlight Gojo’s careless and cocky adolescent attitude and his playful approach to even the most dangerous situations. During this period, Gojo views himself as invincible, and this taunt is a direct result of that boundless confidence and a slight immaturity. He uses it not just to provoke, but also to assert his dominance and to perhaps break the tension with a dose of his characteristic bravado. This offhand remark perfectly captures the essence of his powerful yet still developing personality, showcasing how he often masks serious intent with a lighthearted, mocking demeanor, even when the stakes are incredibly high for himself and those around him.

8) “My Six Eyes Tell Me You’re Suguru Geto, But My Soul Knows Otherwise!”

The Shibuya Incident Arc contains many heartbreaking moments for almost every character in the series. However, this emotionally charged line, delivered by Gojo Satoru, is perhaps one of the most crushing. After a year of believing his former best friend, Suguru Geto, was dead by his own hands, Gojo’s world is turned upside down when he sees Geto on the train platform in Shibuya. Gojo is sickened and crushed upon immediately realizing that Geto is still dead and that his body has been hijacked by Kenjaku to use as a conduit for evil.

In the English dub, the line is made even more devastating: “Your body and cursed energy, only information provided by my Six Eyes, is telling me you’re Suguru Geto, but both my heart and my soul know otherwise.” It’s a powerful moment that highlights the devastating impact of loss that dwells deep in Gojo’s heart and the struggle to reconcile undeniable truth with emotional disbelief. The quote speaks to the enduring strength of the bond between Gojo and Geto; one that not even death could corrupt, making it one of the most heartbreaking lines in the series.

7) “We’re the Strongest.”

This bold and unwavering comment by Gojo, has deep implications and insights into teenage Gojo’s mind. Before he became “the strongest,” as he claims in Season 1, Gojo refers to both himself and Geto as the strongest together during their youth. This line embodies Gojo and Geto’s shared confidence, close personal relationship, and unparalleled power as the most formidable sorcerers of their generation. The quote reflects a period where they both believed they could do anything together, highlighting their immense talent and the seemingly unbreakable bond they shared.

However, the quote also carries a tragic undertone when viewed in hindsight. While they were indeed the strongest together at that time, their paths diverged dramatically, leading to a rift and ultimately, a devastating conflict. “We’re the strongest” thus becomes a sad reminder of a past era, a time when their combined strength offered unlimited promise before the crushing realities of their world tore them apart.

6) “What Kind of Woman is Your Type?”

This seemingly simple yet iconic question is the signature litmus test of Aoi Todo, but its philosophical roots lie with his mentor, the Special Grade sorcerer, Yuki Tsukumo. Yuki taught Todo this question as a means of quickly assessing an individual’s character and values, believing that a person’s “type” reveals a great deal about their underlying personality and aspirations. For Todo, it became his unconventional method of finding a true “best friend” – someone whose genuine self resonated with his own, leading to his legendary bond with his “brother” Yuji Itadori.

The quote goes way past a mere comedic gag, acting as a crucial element of character development. It highlights Todo’s unique perspective and his earnest desire for genuine connection, even if expressed in an eccentric manner. Its origin with Yuki Tsukumo further deepens its significance, linking it to a broader philosophical outlook on understanding human nature within the brutal world of jujutsu. It’s a testament to how even the most casual questions in Jujutsu Kaisen can carry profound weight.

RELATED: Jujutsu Kaisen: Gojo’s Voice Actor Reveals His Favorite Scene in Season 2

5) “I Love Myself When I’m Pretty and All Dressed Up. And I Love Myself When I’m Kicking Ass!”

This iconic declaration from Nobara Kugisaki is a fierce and empowering rejection of societal gender norms and expectations. During a fight with Momo Nishimiya, Nobara – a strong and unapologetically confident sorcerer – refuses to be confined by outdated notions of what a woman should be or do. She celebrates her multifaceted identity, embracing both her femininity and her strength as a fighter without compromise. It’s a powerful statement of self-acceptance and defiance.

The quote champions individuality and self-love above all else. Nobara’s words resonate deeply because they challenge the narrow boxes society often tries to place individuals in; the box Momo tries to put Nobara and Mai in. She embodies the idea that true strength comes from authenticity and the freedom to express oneself fully, regardless of gendered stereotypes. It’s a battle cry for anyone who has ever felt pressured to conform and a reminder that self-worth comes from within.

4) “Itadori, You’ve Got it From Here.”

This incredibly heartbreaking line is uttered by Kento Nanami to Yuji Itadori in his final, agonizing moments, just before his death at the hands of Mahito. Despite his horrific injuries, the immense pain, and knowing his death is mere seconds away thanks to Mahito’s malevolent touch, Nanami’s thoughts are with Yuji, entrusting him with the continuation of the fight. It’s a passing of the torch, not just of duty, but of a shared understanding of their harsh world, signaling Nanami’s unwavering trust and belief in Yuji’s potential, even as his own life ebbs away.

The quote carries the weight of a seasoned sorcerer’s ultimate sacrifice and his protective mentorship towards his younger protégé. Nanami, who initially had a cynical view of jujutsu sorcery and yearned for a normal life, ultimately dedicates his last breath to empower Yuji, the boy he had grown to love. His words are a testament to Nanami’s quiet strength, his steadfast dedication to protecting others, and the deep, unspoken bond he formed with Yuji, leaving an indelible mark on both the character and the audience. This moment is a defining tragedy that pushes Yuji further into the grim realities of his path, while also inspiring him to live up to the legacy Nanami left behind.

3) “Don’t You Have a Human Heart?” “No, It Was Taken From Me.”

This chilling and pivotal exchange takes place between Maki Zenin and her ruthless cousin, Naoya Zenin, during the brutal “Perfect Preparation” arc, as Maki systematically and singlehandedly dismantles the Zenin clan. Naoya’s question, steeped in his condescending and traditional Zenin mindset, attempts to provoke a human reaction or weakness from Maki. Her cold, unfeeling response, “No, it was taken from me,” encapsulates the crippling pain she felt after her twin sister Mai – Maki’s “heart”– was killed. Her response is not just a rejection of his taunt but a reflection of the emotional and psychological cost of her family’s abuse and betrayal.

Maki’s answer signifies her complete detachment from the conventional human empathy for anyone in the Zenin Clan (except Megumi), which was stripped away by years of being ostracized, abused, and nearly killed by her own kin. It highlights her transformation into a formidable, unstoppable force of nature, embodying the pinnacle of her newfound strength by shedding the weaknesses of human connection that her clan saw as flaws. This exchange is a powerful testament to the destructive power of familial trauma and Maki’s ruthless resolve to carve out her own path and avenge her sister’s death, free from the shackles of her past and any lingering attachments.

2) “Not Zenin, Huh? Good For You.”

This chillingly detached and yet subtly approving line is spoken by the resurrected Toji Fushiguro to his son, Megumi Fushiguro, during their unforeseen and brutal encounter in the chaotic Shibuya Incident. Toji, who himself abandoned the Zenin name and its oppressive traditions due to his Heavenly Restriction, recognizes Megumi’s choice not to bear the family name, instead keeping his mother’s surname. It’s a rare, almost paternal moment of acknowledgment from a father who never knew his child and has been stripped of his humanity, fighting only on instinct.

The quote carries a profound weight, reflecting Toji’s lifelong disdain for the Zenin clan’s obsession with cursed energy and lineage. His approval of Megumi’s detachment from the family that scorned him speaks volumes about his own past struggles and liberation from their constraints. It’s a fleeting glimpse of the man Toji once was and a subtle blessing to the son who does not know he is fighting his father in a moment of pure, instinct-driven combat, underscoring the deep, unresolved, and largely unknown history between father and son amidst the chaos of Shibuya.

1) “Love is the Most Twisted Curse of All.”

Gojo Satoru delivers this line, laced with Gojo’s deep and utter sadness, to Yuta Okkotsu in Jujutsu Kaisen 0, offering a dark philosophical insight into the nature of cursed energy and human emotion. Gojo makes this observation while discussing the immensely powerful curse, Rika, which Yuta accidentally created due to his overwhelming love and grief for Rika at the time of her death. While directly addressing Yuta’s situation, the line carries a heavy, unspoken implication, suggesting Gojo is also reflecting on his own tragic relationship with Suguru Geto, whose descent into villainy didn’t just break Gojo’s heart, leaving him without his best friend, but also created deep emotional scars.

The quote highlights the central theme in Jujutsu Kaisen that negative emotions, even those rooted in something as positive as love, can fester and manifest as dangerous curses. Gojo, the strongest sorcerer, understands this duality intimately, having witnessed how intense emotions can corrupt and destroy. His words serve as both a warning to Yuta about the immense power of his own feelings and a poignant reflection on the devastating path taken by his closest friend that impacted not only Geto but Gojo as well, making this line a cornerstone of the series’ exploration of curses and the human heart.

The post 10 Best Jujutsu Kaisen Quotes, Ranked appeared first on ComicBook.com.

The Jujutsu Kaisen franchise has had some buzz in the past few months, but this week might become even busier as new information is teased in this year’s Anime Expo event, which will be held on June 6, 2025. While it is anyone’s guess what could come out of this event regarding the massive battle shonen by Gege Akutami, there is a very good chance that it could be concerning the highly anticipated sequel to the second season.

As confirmed by the official X (formerly Twitter) account of TOHO Animation, Jujutsu Kaisen’s anime will have a special event on June 6, during Anime Expo in Los Angeles, U.S. Furthermore, the voice actors of Yuji Itadori, Junya Enoki, and Yuta Okkotsu, Megumi Ogata, will be present as special guests. This news obviously has fans excited as there is one thing on their minds: Season 3. It has been a while since the last official update about the season, and since there was nothing substantial to come out of the Anime Japan event, fans are pinning their hopes on this event.

RELATED: Jujutsu Kaisen 0 Is Coming Back To Theaters, But There’s Something You May Not Know

Jujutsu Kaisen Season 3 Could Finally Have New Information

The fact that the voice actors of Itadori and Yuta will be attending is the most interesting aspect of this news and could be hinting at something. For those unaware, season 3 will begin with the Itadori Extermination arc, and while the overall arc the season will cover is the Culling Games, the first few episodes will cover this. While there are some exciting moments such as Naoya and the Zenin Clan’s introduction, the real main dish is the battle between Yuji and Okkotsu. Usually, when an anime sequel is being announced, voice actors of the main characters help announce it, but Enoki and Ogata being the ones to attend the event is very intriguing.

Announced soon after season 2 ended and at last year’s Jump Festa, the most that season 3 got was a key visual depicting Yuji sitting on a staircase, and it has been radio silence since. Covering the Culling Games arc, the season will see the main characters forced into a deadly tournament-style battle all across Japan in order to stop Kenjaku and free Gojo from his seal. With non-stop action, the introduction of new exciting characters, and a massive plot twist that will define the series, Culling Games is going to be truly something if adapted properly.

This weekend will be interesting for the franchise, and it is the perfect chance to update fans on the progress of the series. It has been more than 2 years since season 2 aired, and the sequel could be coming sooner rather than later, most likely late this year or early 2026. With one movie currently in cinemas and another one coming this October, the fandom is rejuvenated and ready after quite some time with neither anime content nor manga.

The post Jujutsu Kaisen Has a Big Update Coming Soon appeared first on ComicBook.com.

It is no secret nor surprise that Jujutsu Kaisen’s latest movie would have thousands of people lined up on the first weekend to catch it, but the latest attendance analytics are much higher than anticipated. It seems that anything Jujutsu Kaisen-related will have people showing up in droves, proving why this anime is one of this decade’s biggest, if not the biggest.

As reported by Mantan-Web, Jujutsu Kaisen‘s new movie, the Hidden Inventory compilation film, debuted in Japanese theaters on May 30, 2025, and has managed to rack up approximately 138,000 attendees. The opening week sales have soared to 190 million Yen, which is about $1.3 million, making it the 4th-ranked movie the weekend of May 30th to June 1st. This is very impressive considering the movie’s content and how re-releases of already existing content in movie form don’t perform as well as this, showing just how massive the Jujutsu Kaisen franchise is. With the movie debuting internationally in a few weeks and another one in a few months, the series will continue to dominate box office sales.

RELATED: Jujutsu Kaisen Movie Drops First Look at Brand-New Scenes

Jujutsu Kaisen Places Highly in Its First Week

Obviously, the movie did not do nearly as well as the previous theatrical release from the franchise, which hit $23.5 M in the opening weekend and went on to rake up $185 M worldwide. This is because this film is a rerelease of the already-released Hidden Inventory arc that aired in 2023, and went on to be massively popular and successful. Furthermore, the screening rate of this movie is half that of the Jujutsu Kaisen 0 movie, which again is because it is a re-release. However, these stats are still very good and the numbers will only continue to spike as it is made available worldwide.

The Hidden Inventory Arc serves as the fifth arc in the story, coming before the Shibuya Incident, which marked a significant turning point in the narrative. It revisits Satoru Gojo’s teenage years and his experiences at Jujutsu High, along with Geto, Shoko, Nanami, and others. This arc also introduces the remarkable antagonist, Toji Fushiguro, who nearly ended the lives of Gojo and Geto and caused a rift in their friendship. Widely regarded as one of the best arcs in the story, if not the absolute best, the Hidden Inventory offers a brief yet incredibly enjoyable experience that signals an acceleration in both pace and quality of the story.

The release of the movie has treated fans to brand-new and exclusive scenes of the young trio, fanning the flames of excitement around the new content. With the Jujutsu Kaisen 0 movie also scheduled to be released in theaters this October, the fandom is being gradually revived after more than 2 years without an anime and almost a year without the manga. This couldn’t come at a better time, as season 3, which adapts the Culling Games arc, is imminent and is not too far off from blessing fans.

The post Jujutsu Kaisen’s Return to Theaters Nets Impressive Box Office Debut appeared first on ComicBook.com.

Jujutsu Kaisen is coming to theaters this Summer with a new take on one of its biggest arcs, and the anime has dropped the first look at some of the brand-new scenes that will be coming in the Gojo’s Past compilation movie. Jujutsu Kaisen has now hit theaters in Japan with a new take on the Hidden Inventory and Premature Death arcs first seen in the anime’s second season. This new theatrical film release compiles the anime’s arc into a single adventure, but also includes some brand new material that fans have never gotten to see before to help tantalize fans who might be caught up already.

This new Jujutsu Kaisen film includes some new ending theme sequence credits which shows off over 50 different kinds of illustrations featuring characters like Satoru Gojo, Suguru Geto, and Shoko Ieiri in the past much like the flashback arc seen in the anime’s second season itself. These images are being given as gifts to fans who are checking out the movie in Japan this month, and that means fans have gotten the first look at what to expect from these new additions. Check it out below as shared by Comic Natalie.

When Does Jujutsu Kaisen’s New Movie Come Out?

JUJUTSU KAISEN: Hidden Inventory / Premature Death – The Movie is currently screening in theaters across Japan, and GKIDS will be officially releasing the new film in theaters in the United States and Canada on July 16th. This means fans stateside won’t have to wait through too much of a gap to see the new film (and new scenes) in action for themselves. This new film also feature both Japanese and English dubbed audio options with an all-new acoustic version of Tatsuya Kitani’s “Where Our Blue Is,” which was first heard as the opening theme for the arc during Jujutsu Kaisen Season 2.

As for what to expect from the new movie, GKIDS teases JUJUTSU KAISEN: Hidden Inventory / Premature Death – The Movie as such, “Before they were enemies, Satoru Gojo and Suguru Geto were high school classmates and friends. The two powerful sorcerers are tasked with protecting Riko Amanai, a student who has been designated to be sacrificed as the Star Plasma Vessel, until she can fulfill her duty. Pursued by a religious cult and other curse users, they are the only sorcerers capable of carrying out such a difficult task – but this mission will set their destinies, and challenge the two sorcerers in ways unimaginable.”

RELATED: Jujutsu Kaisen Fans Can’t Miss Out on This Underrated Exorcist Series

When Does Jujutsu Kaisen Season 3 Come Out?

But while Jujutsu Kaisen’s new movie is certainly an exciting release for fans, it’s still not what fans really want. Jujutsu Kaisen Season 3 was announced following the end of the second season, but it has yet to reveal a release window or date as of the time of this publication. Very little has been shared from the new season’s production overall, so fans have been eagerly waiting to see any little morsel from the coming episodes as Yuji Itadori and the others take on tough new opponents.

Jujutsu Kaisen Season 3 has confirmed it will be tackling the Culling Game arc from Gege Akutami’s original manga series. This new season will be filled with a ton of new characters and more intense fights than seen before as Yuji and Megumi are forced into a deadly “tournament” in order to save Megumi’s sister and everyone impacted by the events of the Shibuya Incident. It’s all only getting started from here on out, and you can catch up with the anime’s first two seasons now streaming with platforms Netflix, Hulu and Crunchyroll.

HT – Comic Natalie

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At the heart of Jujutsu Kaisen 0 is a tidbit not many fans know about―and it comes with seismic consequences for the series. With the impending release of the highly anticipated Hidden Inventory film recapping Jujutsu Kaisen‘s eponymous arc, the official Jujutsu Kaisen anime account on X (formerly Twitter) announced that Jujutsu Kaisen 0 will also return to theaters.

Jujutsu Kaisen 0 is great, there’s no question about that, and it’s certain that fans worldwide are excited for the opportunity to catch it in theaters. Covering the tumultuous journey of Yuta Okkotsu as he’s taken in by Jujutsu High and fends off Geto’s attempted massacre, JJK 0 is a brilliant foundation for the series as a whole. But not a lot of fans know that Jujutsu Kaisen 0 isn’t a prequel―it’s actually just “Proto-JJK”: the film is an adaptation of a four-part limited series that predated Jujutsu Kaisen‘s serialization, only later given the title Jujutsu Kaisen 0.

Yuta Was Jujutsu Kaisen’s Original Protagonist

In effect, what this means is that Jujutsu Kaisen‘s protagonist originally wasn’t Yuji at all. Instead, that post was held by Jujutsu Kaisen 0‘s lanky, lovelorn lead. Aside from Jujutsu Kaisen 0, anime-only fans have only just gotten a taste of Yuta at the end of Season 2 where he’s tasked with Yuji’s execution.

It’s a stellar cliffhanger that begs for the next season, during which Yuta will start to play a significant role. Avoiding spoilers: suffice it to say that Yuta becomes pivotal in some of the biggest fights in the latter half of the hit shonen, enough to be accused multiple times by the JJK fandom of stealing the spotlight from Yuji himself.

It’s an irony likely lost on anime-only fans that Yuji was once accused of doing the same to Yuta. After Jujutsu Kaisen debuted in Shonen Jump with its flashy new protagonist, comparisons were drawn between the two regularly by fans who enjoyed Gege Akutami’s previous limited series―comparisons that weren’t all that friendly to Yuji.

Yuji’s lighthearted, milquetoast characterization did make him easier for readers to project themselves onto, and they also made him the perfect vessel for a story whose protagonist is a vessel―both literally, in the sense of hosting Sukuna, and metaphorically, in the sense of being a prism through which other characters’ stories are reflected. In fact, those are precisely the reasons Gege himself found Yuji hard to write.

Granted, Yuji is relatively bland compared to Yuta, whose darker background, morose disposition, and fixed motivations make him a stronger narrative force altogether. But it’s easy to argue that Yuji’s presence as the protagonist makes for a better story. Yuta could easily overpower a story, and there’s a good reason that a protagonist with a more standard personality came to take his place. Nonetheless, that doesn’t stop certain fans from daydreaming about how maintaining a focus on Yuta might have made for a drastically different story―and even in the mainline story we have, it doesn’t stop the two protagonists from feeling equally worthy of the spot.

[RELATED: Why You Must Watch Jujutsu Kaisen 0]

Perfect Timing: The Serendipity of Jujutsu Kaisen 0’s Return

In our coverage of Jujutsu Kaisen 0‘s theater return, we remarked that the timing is excellent because the film integrates naturally with the “Hidden Inventory” arc and its respective film. That’s true, of course: both focus on Gojo and Geto’s backstory, and together, they mark the most significant backstory dump in Jujutsu Kaisen writ large.

But Jujutsu Kaisen 0’s timing is perfect for yet another reason. With the Itadori Extermination arc on the horizon in the mainline anime, Yuji and Yuta will start settling a feud that has existed since the franchise’s very beginning. It’s always been written in the margins and never outright stated, but the competition between the two for the title of Jujutsu Kaisen‘s “true protagonist” will finally start hitting the screen.

It starts with the Itadori Extermination arc, sure, but then it carries forward into traded or shared screentime during the Perfect Preparation, Culling Game, and Shinjuku Showdown arcs. This interplay between protagonist and former protagonist is crucial as the series presses forward for reasons it would spoil too much to share, but it’s their implicit vie for the series’ spotlight that demands each one to outpace the other’s growth in an indirect narrative sense.

Of course, with Jujutsu Kaisen‘s manga finale shrinking more and more in the rear-view mirror, the anticipation surrounding the series has become scattered. It’s still high, but it’s also all over the place. It’s approaching two years since Jujutsu Kaisen‘s third season was first announced, which means fans have had a lot of time pass since the first embers of the rivalry were on-screen. Now is the perfect time to remind fans of Yuta’s prescience and dominance as a driver of Jujutsu Kaisen‘s story before the real battle between the two begins.

The post Jujutsu Kaisen 0 Is Coming Back To Theaters, But There’s Something You May Not Know appeared first on ComicBook.com.

Even after its conclusion in September 2024, Jujutsu Kaisen’s popularity has hardly diminished as it’s still one of the best-selling manga currently. While the main story has already concluded, the anime studio is currently working on Season 3, which will adapt the Culling Game Arc. Additionally, a compilation film, Jujutsu Kaisen: Hidden Inventory/Premature Death—The Movie, has been released in Japan and will hit the U.S. theatres on July 16th, 2025. While these anime projects are enough to keep up the hype of the show, there are always new series fans can read in the meantime. Jujutsu Kaisen is a dark fantasy series that often plays a major role in making the story much more captivating.

This is especially why fans can’t miss out on reading D. Gray Man, another dark fantasy manga created by Katsura Hoshino. The series debuted in 2004 and was later adapted into an anime by the TMS Entertainment studio. The manga transitioned from a weekly to a monthly series in 2009 and then went on an indefinite hiatus in 2013 because of Hoshino’s health. The manga returned in 2015 and then again transitioned to a quarterly schedule. The anime production also faced challenges due to the irregular schedule, which is one of the reasons this masterpiece is not popular among the new generation of anime fans.

What Is the Plot of D. Gray Man?

Thousands of years ago, a chosen few were gifted with divine power, the ability to wield the “Innocence,” sacred relics capable of purging Akuma, artificial creatures created by the Millennium Earl, primarily composed of human souls. The Millennium Earl uses human souls to create those monstrous weapons of destruction in hopes of annihilating the Innocence and plunging the world into chaos by bringing about the Great Flood from a hundred years ago. He is aided by the Noah Family, descendants of the biblical Noah, who possess inhuman powers and memories of their ancestors.

An organization known as the Black Order was created that aims to find the fragments of the Innocence and their Accommodators, individuals born with the rare compatibility to synchronize with the Innocence. These Accomodators are trained to be full-fledged Exorcists within the Order to stop the Earl’s threat. The story is set in the late 19th century, following Allen Walker, a new and young recruit of the Black Order who has a rare Innocence infused in his left arm.

His Innocence isn’t the only thing unique about him, but it’s also his ability to see through the souls of the Akuma who disguise themselves as humans. The world Allen sees is much darker than what other Exorcists face on a daily basis. This is why he swears to help the tortured souls of Akuma find peace and to protect humanity from the Earl of Millennium.

Jujutsu Kaisen and D. Gray Man Share Thematic Similarities

While the setting and plot are vastly different in both series, we do see similarities in the way Jujutsu Sorcerers from JJK and Exorcists from DGM “exorcise” grotesque monsters. Both series have creatures that are formed or created from humans’ grief or negative emotions. These “creatures” explore the themes of how human sufferings breed monsters that cause even more tragedies in the world. Even their unsightly appearance tells us how negative emotions can be shaped into something so repulsive.

The more the story progresses, the more powerful enemies these characters face. Both series humanize evil, creating villains whose ideologies make you question the broken world, question what is right, and show that evil often comes from disillusionment, grief, or twisted justice. Just like Jujutsu Tech High School, the Black Order oversees the training and missions of the Exorcists. Additionally, both protagonists are cursed with unexplainable powers.

Yuji is the first human ever to become a vessel of the King of Curses, Ryomen Sukuna. While Allen’s powers come naturally to him, he is also considered “cursed” for having something out of the ordinary. The powers these protagonists possess also make others wary of them. These powers evolve in a short time, thanks to their “cursed” nature. Furthermore, since both are dark series, they include various tragedies and deaths that highlight the cost of living in a cruel world.

The post Jujutsu Kaisen Fans Can’t Miss Out on This Underrated Exorcist Series appeared first on ComicBook.com.

Much to the chagrin of the series’ creator, Gojo Satoru remains one of the most popular characters of Jujutsu Kaisen, even more than its protagonist, Yuji. Even though Jujutsu Kaisen’s manga has long ended and Season 2 has taken Gojo completely out of the picture in the anime, Gojo is once again commanding the spotlight with the upcoming release of the Hidden Inventory/Premature Death movie this July. Adding to the excitement, the series’ creator, Gege Akutami, just shared a new peek at Gojo’s unexplored past that is missing even in the upcoming movie.

A recent post on X by @Go_jover shared new illustrations by Gege Akutami depicting Gojo’s coming-of-age ceremony. The new sketches feature a teenage Gojo with much shorter hair, as well as Naoya Zenin among the faceless crowd at the ceremony, which, according to the text accompanying the sketch, was held at the Gojo Clan’s home. The sketch reveals that Gojo had decided to leave the Gojo Clan when he chose to join Jujutsu High. The Gojo Clan agreed to let Gojo join Jujutsu High, but on the condition that they hold his coming-of-age ceremony first so as to avoid any misunderstandings that Gojo and his Clan were on bad terms, which Gojo agreed to.

[RELATED: Jujutsu Kaisen Continues to Dominate 2025 in Latest New Report]

Jujutsu Kaisen Needs To Explore Gojo’s Character More Before the Final Arc

Despite being one of the most interesting characters in Jujutsu Kaisen, fans get very little insight into his life and backstory. Gojo’s backstory in Jujutsu Kaisen is mostly limited to the events of the Hidden Inventory Arc and the one glimpse that fans get of him as a child through Toji Fushiguro. As such, it’s quite interesting to see more of Gojo’s life before joining Jujutsu High.

The traditional coming-of-age ceremony in the new sketches, called genpuku in Japanese, is typically held between the ages of 12 to 17. Given that Gojo was 16 during the Hidden Inventory Arc, at which time he was a second-year student, this ceremony likely took place when Gojo was 15 or younger. The fact that he was forced into taking part in the ceremony more than explains the blank, slightly bored, slightly annoyed expression on Gojo’s face in the sketches. Moreover, given what a pillar Gojo becomes to the school, it’s interesting to see how eager he was to join Jujutsu High and get away from the Gojo Clan and their agendas.

On that note, the new sketches by Akutami also give fans a glimpse at the tense political climate of the Jujutsu world, particularly between the three great clans, which is easily one of the most interesting parts of Jujutsu Kaisen, albeit not as thoroughly explored as it could have been. Given the delicate balance of power between the three families and Jujutsu High, the decision to have this coming-of-age ceremony was most certainly for appearances and to show off that the Gojo Clan would still be backed by Gojo even if he joined Jujutsu High.

This also makes sense given that Gojo was so strong that he altered the very balance of the world with his birth. Overall, it is a shame that this part of Gojo’s story didn’t make it into the series. That said, hopefully Jujutsu Kaisen’s anime might just find a way to squeeze in before the series wraps up, though until then, fans can enjoy what little of Gojo’s past Jujutsu Kaisen has revealed so far through the upcoming Hidden Inventory movie.

Jujutsu Kaisen: Hidden Inventory/Premature Death – The Movie releases in theaters across North America on July 16, 2025.

Source: @Go_jover on X.

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The first half of 2025 is now over, and with that, new data and statistics regarding the world of manga have been released. While it might be surprising that Jujutsu Kaisen is in the rankings for one of the year’s best-selling manga yet again, it might be shocking how high it ranked, despite not releasing any volumes this year at all. The series has no doubt been one of the biggest, if not the biggest, manga of the decade, and it is still continuing its dominance in the industry.

As reported by Oricon, the sales data of the best-selling manga of 2025 so far are out, and Jujutsu Kaisen is in the lead with 3.3 million copies, riding high after its final volumes were released in Japan last holiday season. While this is definitely less than the past 2 years, where it was 3.7 in 2023 and 4.6 in 2024, this is still a great figure and has it on pace to be the best-selling manga of the year for 2 years in a row. The hit battle shonen has exploded in recent times to be one of the highest-selling comics of all time, recently hitting the 100 million mark, and with more seasons on the way, it will surely continue to rise up the ranks and break even more ground.

RELATED: Jujutsu Kaisen Shatters Major Record Following Manga’s Finale

Jujutsu Kaisen’s Popularity Has Not Wavered In The Slightest

What really makes this accomplishment more impressive is the fact that Jujutsu Kaisen ended 8 months ago, and has not released any more content outside of the epilogue chapter. Furthermore, there is no new anime content boosting sales: the series is just that popular. Dandadan, a new series to the top 10, came in at second with 2.5 M, Blue Lock with 1.89M, One Piece with 1.83M, and My Hero Academia with 1.7 M. Horikoshi’s superhero hit is also impressive for being so high up despite ending earlier than Jujutsu Kaisen, showing just how massive these two series were when they were serializing.

Yuji Itadori excels at track and field, but he’s not interested in competitive sports. Instead, he spends his time in the Occult Research Club for fun. However, things take a serious turn when a real cursed spirit appears at school. Before his grandfather dies, Yuji promises to live a life helping others so he won’t die alone like him. Soon after, he meets Megumi Fushiguro, a jujutsu sorcerer trying to recover a cursed object. When Yuji’s friends accidentally release the curse, Yuji swallows the object, gaining its power and becoming entangled in the world of jujutsu sorcerers and deadly curses.

Jujutsu Kaisen is most likely going to finish off this year as the best-selling manga, or at least in the top 5. With season 3 on the way and the series’ best action and moments yet to be animated, the sales will surely skyrocket again, and it might even go back to pre-2023, when it was simply an unstoppable force.

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Jujutsu Kaisen is gearing up to release the new Hidden Inventory arc compilation movie, but it seems that fans will be treated to yet another screening of the franchise’s most popular movie. While some might wonder what the use of re-releasing the film was, it might be a good idea given how it all flows together very well and prepares fans for the long-awaited season 3, and adaptation of the violent and action-packed Culling Games arc.

As confirmed by the official X (formerly Twitter) account of the Jujutsu Kaisen anime, the Jujutsu Kaisen 0 movie will be re-released in cinemas on October 17, 2025. For now, this is exclusive only to Japan, but it will most likely be made available in North America and internationally soon after. Accompanying the announcement was a new gorgeous poster of Yuta and Rika and a new trailer that seems to show some unseen footage and scenes, and possibly a more polished product than the first release.

RELATED: Jujutsu Kaisen Movie Tease Has Fans Speculating About Season 3 News

Yuta’s Story Is Coming Back To Theaters Once Again

Initially released in December 2021, the feature-length Jujutsu Kaisen 0 film by MAPPA was one of the biggest anime movies of all time, raking in almost $200 million worldwide. Originally intended to be part of the anime series, it centered on Yuta Okkotsu, who is haunted by the ghost of his childhood friend, Rika, who died in a car accident. Her spirit, now a monstrous and powerful entity, violently protects him, causing harm he cannot control. Captured by Jujutsu sorcerers, Yuuta asks to be isolated, but Satoru Gojou instead enrolls him in Jujutsu High. There, Yuuta learns to control Rika’s power and fights curses alongside classmates Maki, Toge, and Panda. As he begins to find belonging and strength, Yuuta realizes the true dangers of the Jujutsu world run deeper than vengeful spirits.

The re-release of the movie has just been announced, so there is no further information about it besides the release date. Whether there will be original scenes or not is unknown, but based on past projects like this, there is a high probability of it becoming a reality. The Hidden Inventory compilation movie has already been confirmed to contain original content from Gege Akutami, and the Juju Strolls will finally be making a comeback after more than 3 years. The same could very well be possible for this movie, and whether it’s a JujuStroll or completely new scenes in the storyline is yet to be revealed, but fans should be excited nonetheless.

Interestingly, the sequence of movie releases for the franchise works very well. Currently, the Hidden Inventory movie details the young days of Geto and Gojo as friends, and this upcoming one will chronicle their deadly battles as enemies, as well as Yuta becoming a sorcerer. All this can work very well as a way to hype Jujutsu Kaisen season 3, since the first few episodes will have major involvement from Yuta and the Culling Games in general. It has also been almost 3 years since the last season, and these re-releases of already existing content serve well as a way to rejuvenate the fandom, as more information is going to be planned.

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After giving fans the phenomenal first season of Jujutsu Kaisen’s anime adaptation, as well as the Jujutsu Kaisen 0 movie, acclaimed anime director Sunghoo Park is back with a new original anime. Bullet/Bullet is the director’s new high-octane series that takes the high-stakes action of JJK and blends it with the motorhead aesthetic of Mad Max. Fans have already been treated to the anime’s kick-ass first trailer, but we now know where and when to find the series.

Bullet/Bullet is an original concept, post-apocalyptic series that blends the post-apocalyptic setting of Mad Max and Fallout with the sci-fi aesthetic of FLCL, and the bonkers character designs that anime fans adore. In honor of Jujutsu Kaisen‘s Panda, the new show even has a talking polar bear! The series was already confirmed to release this Summer, but we now have an exact date.

Bullet/Bullet Lands a Surprising Streaming Home

Per a new report from Variety, Sunghoo Park’s Bullet/Bullet anime will stream exclusively on Disney+, meaning it won’t get to stream alongside its proverbial brother, Jujutsu Kaisen, on Crunchyroll.

We already knew that Bullet/Bullet would be released from its decade-long development this Summer season. But the report has revealed that the new anime premieres on Disney+ on July 16th. Surprisingly, Disney+ is combining the binge and two-cour release strategies for Bullet/Bullet. The series will run for 16 episodes in total. The first eight episodes will all be released on July 16th. Fans will then have to wait just under a month for the second eight episodes on August 13th.

[RELATED – Jujutsu Kaisen Movie Tease Has Fans Speculating About Season 3 News]

What is Bullet/Bullet About?

Bullet/Bullet was first announced over a decade ago. The series is written by Aki Kindaichi (Uma Musume: Cinderella Grey), with Takahiro Yoshimatsu (Hunter x Hunter) acting as chief animation director under Sunghoo Park.

Bullet/Bullet is set in a post-apocalyptic world, and follows Gear, a junk dealer and thief trying to survive in the wasteland. After partnering with a gambling addicted polar bear and a robot with a personality disorder, the three criminals act as elite mercenaries and thieves. But when they’re hired to rescue a mysterious girl, they become the targets of the wasteland’s wealthy elite.

Marina Inoue (Attack on Titan) voices Gear, and Kazuhiro Yamahi (One-Punch Man) voices Shirokuma the robot. Rie Kugimiya (Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood) and Kana Hanazawa (Psycho-Pass) make up the rest of the major cast. The show’s OP has already been revealed ahead of its summer premiere. “Work Hard” is the new original track by Japanese rapper Chanmina. The ending theme, “Glass Door,” was performed by the Tokyo rock band Newspeak.

H/T: Variety

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Jujutsu Kaisen’s core strength lies in its complex power system and the thrilling fights. The story is set in a world where negative human emotions pile up and create cursed spirits that seek destruction. The concept of humans creating emotions and fighting against them is something that points towards endless suffering. As long as humanity exists in the world, the curses will keep on manifesting. While Jujutsu Sorcerers do their best to save the people, the sheer number of curses makes it impossible for them to save everyone. It’s even more tragic when you realize that the ones who need to be saved the most are those sorcerers who experience the cruelty of this world first-hand.

Sorcerers in Jujutsu Kaisen either end up dying for the sake of others or simply lose themselves in the process of fighting curses. Suguru Geto was one such character who couldn’t be saved, no matter what Gojo could have done for him. Geto walked the path of evil all alone and died at the hands of his best friend. For Gojo, his sweetest dream is the memories of the high school years he spent with Geto. And his biggest nightmare was the day when he realized that he couldn’t save Geto from breaking down. MAPPA, the studio behind Jujutsu Kaisen, is praised for its intricate details in the animation and the captivating storytelling that further heightens the message left in the manga. A few minor details captured in the Hidden Inventory/Premature Death Arc were overlooked initially, but they make the backstory even more tragic.

[RELATED: Jujutsu Kaisen’s Greatest Strength Is Lost on International Fans]

Jujutsu Kaisen Fan Points Out the Subtle Details in the Hidden Inventory/Premature Death Arc

The post was shared by a Japanese fan and immediately went viral because the majority of the community didn’t notice these details. It also makes the entire backstory even more tragic than it already was. The part where Gojo, Geto, and Misato were talking near a pool only showed a reflection of Gojo, who didn’t die in that arc. Additionally, the windows in the basketball court were different in other scenes. These weren’t production mistakes, but depict how the dead have no reflection.

The windows aren’t the same because we are watching this arc from Gojo’s dream, whose memories are distorted after twelve years. The entire arc is nothing more than a dream he saw when he dozed off in his office while sitting in a chair. It’s impossible for him to remember all the minor details, such as how the windows would look or how the reflection of the deceased would appear.

It was Gojo’s backstory, but since everything we saw was from his perspective, it centered heavily on Geto, who became the protagonist in the dream. He continued to remember bits and pieces of his youth, along with the day when everything went wrong. The dream ends when Gojo’s students come to wake him up, and he goes on with his day, knowing those days from 12 years ago will never come back.

H/T: @goge572love on X

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Jujutsu Kaisen fans are about to be treated to yet another screening of one of the franchise’s movies this year, and it will be exciting. With the screening of the Hidden Inventory compilation movie already underway in Japan and soon in North America, there has been some buzz after cryptic and mysterious information about the movie has been revealed officially, potentially teasing the third season and more info regarding it.

In a post by the official X (formerly Twitter) account of the Jujutsu Kaisen anime, promoting the release of the Hidden Inventory movie and the acoustic ending, the tweet left a message at the end urging fans to watch out for the end and pay attention to it. This small message left fans very excited and wondering what it could mean, and while it is possible that it might not be as big as it seems, there is a real chance of information regarding Season 3, such as a promotional video to be included at the end.

RELATED: Jujutsu Kaisen’s Hidden Inventory Movie Confirmed To Include Original Content by Creator

The Culling Games Might Receive An Update Sooner Than We Thought

Season 3 was announced shortly after the finale of the second season, and it wasn’t until this past Jump Festa event that the season got its first news: a gorgeous red key visual of Yuji sitting on a staircase. However, it has been radio silence since, and now could be the perfect opportunity for more updates about the anime to be revealed. With the hype being very high and a large audience there on the opening weekend, there is no better place and time to surprise fans with a teaser trailer about the long-awaited and action-packed season that adapts the Culling Games arc.

The Hidden Inventory Arc is the story’s fifth arc, preceding the Shibuya Incident, which was a major shift in the narrative. It flashed back to Satoru Gojo’s teenage years and his life in Jujutsu High, alongside Geto, Shoko, Nanami, and others. It also introduced the incredible antagonist, Toji Fushiguro, who almost killed Gojo and Geto, as well as led to the severing of their relationship. Hailed as one of the story’s best arcs, if not the best, the Hidden Inventory is a short but incredibly sweet ride that signals the story ramping up in pace and quality.

While it is equally possible that the account wanted fans not to miss the new JujuStrolls that were recently announced to be included in the movie, there similarly exists the chance that there’s content regarding Season 3 at the end of the movie. Whether fans’ wishes do end coming true or not, there is definitely progress on the season that is going on, and it will not be long until the sequel receives new information and updates. With the voice actor of Gojo confirming that Season 3 and future seasons will outdo the second installment to the franchise, it is no wonder everyone is excited about the anime’s return and, once again, to dominate.

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Jujutsu Kaisen had many things going for it in its 8-year run that crowned it as this decade’s biggest manga, without a doubt. There are many things the series is renowned for, such as the incredible action and fights, deeply complex and explored power system to the masterful characterization, but there is one aspect of the story that it is by far the best at, and most international fans might not be able to fully grasp its brilliance.

Jujutsu Kaisen, written and illustrated by Gege Akutami, began serialization in Weekly Shonen Jump in March 2018 and is expected to conclude in 2025. The story follows Yuji Itadori, a high school student who becomes a jujutsu sorcerer after ingesting a powerful cursed object—the finger of Sukuna, a legendary curse. He joins Tokyo Jujutsu High to fight curses and protect humanity while navigating dark secrets and intense battles. With more than 100 million copies in circulation and much more to come, the series has solidified itself as one of Jump’s greatest.

Gege Akutami’s Mastery of Japanese Is One To Behold

One thing that many translators and Japanese fans have said about Jujutsu Kaisen is how complex and interesting Akutami’s use of the language is. This is probably why many fans dislike the official English translation by John Werry, as they feel like what was being conveyed wasn’t transferred over. While most manga do end up getting lost in translation, Jujutsu Kaisen was particularly notorious, no thanks to Akutami’s expertise with words. In fact, the voice actors of Choso and Yuji did talk about how difficult Jujutsu Kaisen‘s Kanji can be.

The way he plays with different styles of dialogue across different eras in Japan, occasionally using difficult-to-understand Kanji, integrates poetry effortlessly and makes playful references to folklore and contemporary culture is one to behold. The series also expects some familiarity with Japanese history to understand it. For example, Jujutsu Kaisen makes a lot of callbacks to the Heian and Meiji eras, and while international fans might consider it a flaw not to expand on this, Japanese fans do not need further information because they know those periods of time and can understand the references. Sukuna is also an interesting character, as his manner of speaking and dialogue is very ancient, and he uses vocabulary from past eras, nailing the depiction of him as a living legend.

RELATED: Jujutsu Kaisen’s Final Volume Solves a Major Misunderstanding About Sukuna

Akutami Is Rivaled By Few In Dialogue

Jujutsu Kaisen‘s greatest strength and one of its most praised aspects is how brilliant the dialogue, narration, and interactions are. Akutami’s masterful weaving of prose and poetry makes the series a treat to analyze and dissect, and the rich colloquy between the characters makes them truly human-like and realistic. It’s rare for a shonen to balance existential weight with a slick character voice this well. Akutami doesn’t waste words—when a line hits, it hits.

The layered characterization the series manages to achieve very efficiently is incredible, as Akutami can give an insight into a character’s personality almost immediately with the fewest of words. For example, you can tell Gojo is arrogant and confident within seconds of his introduction based on his relaxed tone despite seeing his student bloodied and fighting for his life. Nobara’s tomboyish attitude, while also leaning into her femininity, was something that was understood from the beginning.

Another very unique aspect of Akutami’s dialogue is how philosophically potent it can be. Jujutsu Kaisen is obviously a philosophical story by nature as it discusses the meaning of a good death, the gap between generations, and more topics that one would not expect from a story aimed at 12-year-old boys. In Jujutsu Kaisen, dialogue serves as a vehicle for deep philosophical inquiry, exploring themes like identity, morality, death, and existential choice. Characters don’t just fight—they question the meaning of strength, the value of life, and the weight of their decisions, making the series incredibly rich and introspective.

Jujutsu Kaisen is already an extremely enjoyable and fun manga to read without fully grasping what it’s trying to say, and it’s designed to be digestible for casual fans. However, there lies an even greater realm of enjoyment if fans can take the time to research and try to understand the undertones and subtext the series offers. It has many layers of depth that are basically screaming to be dissected, and anyone passionate enough to engage with the story at a deeper level will surely be rewarded with one of the best manga to come out of the last decade.

The post Jujutsu Kaisen’s Greatest Strength Is Lost on International Fans appeared first on ComicBook.com.

As the anticipation for Jujutsu Kaisen Season 3 builds, fans are eager to dive back into the dark, action-packed world of sorcerers and cursed spirits. The upcoming season is set to adapt the highly anticipated “Culling Game” arc: a brutal battle royale orchestrated by the insidious Kenjaku that will push the characters to their absolute limits, show Yuta Okkotsku back in Tokyo at his full strength, and introduce a slew of new, powerful players.

To properly prepare for the chaos and excitement that awaits, there’s no better way than to revisit some of the anime’s most impactful and thrilling episodes. These selections not only showcase the series’ signature blend of intricate cursed techniques and visceral combat, but also highlight key character developments and plot points that will be crucial for understanding the stakes of the Culling Game. Get ready to refresh your memory and rekindle your excitement for what promises to be an unforgettable new season!

1) “Hidden Inventory, Part 4″ (Season 2, Episode 4)

This episode is a masterclass in showcasing the tragic turning point for Satoru Gojo and Suguru Geto, picking up on the heels of a massive cliffhanger: Toji Fushiguro killing Riko Amanai and leaving Gojo for dead. The raw emotion, the devastating betrayal, and the unraveling of their friendship are all brought to life with stunning animation and poignant storytelling. It’s a foundational episode that explains the ideological rift between the two strongest sorcerers and sets the stage for Geto’s eventual descent into villainy, directly impacting the events of the Shibuya Incident and, by extension, the Culling Game.

The fight choreography is exceptional, particularly Gojo’s awakening as “the Honored One” and his subsequent ruthless display of power against Toji Fushiguro. Witnessing Gojo shed his carefree persona and embrace his true strength is chilling and exhilarating, exquisitely brought to life by Kaiji Tang’s captivating voice performance. This episode provides crucial context for Gojo’s isolation and the burden of his power, which becomes a central theme in the larger narrative, especially with his current predicament. Understanding this past is vital for appreciating the future of the jujutsu world.

2) “Nonstandard” (Season 1, Episode 20)

“Nonstandard” stands out for its incredible display of teamwork and growth, primarily between Yuji Itadori and Aoi Todo. The episode features their joint fight against the Special Grade Cursed Spirit Hanami during the Kyoto Goodwill Event. Todo’s eccentric mentorship and Yuji’s rapid adaptation to his combat style lead to some of the most dynamic and entertaining fight sequences in the entire series, culminating in Yuji’s impressive consecutive Black Flashes.

Beyond the superb action, this episode is critical for establishing Todo’s unique perspective and his unexpected, yet effective bond with Yuji. Their bizarre but genuine camaraderie is a refreshing contrast to the grim realities of the jujutsu world and the tragedy that is to come from the series. It also gives us a taste of Gojo’s overwhelming power with the reveal of Hollow Technique: Purple, reminding us of the immense strength that the forces of good possess, a strength that will be desperately needed in the Culling Game.

3) “Thunderclap” (Season 2, Episode 16)

This episode is an unadulterated spectacle of power, focusing on the brutal clash between Sukuna and Jogo during the Shibuya Incident. The animation reaches dizzying new heights as Sukuna, inhabiting Yuji’s body, unleashes a torrent of destructive cursed energy. Jogo, despite his immense strength as a Special Grade cursed spirit, is utterly outmatched, highlighting the terrifying gulf between even the strongest curses and the King of Curses.

“Thunderclap” is a pure adrenaline rush, demonstrating the sheer destructive potential of Sukuna and hinting at the true horror he represents. It also finally reveals Megumi Fushiguro’s untamed shikigami, Mahoraga. Though hinted at throughout the series, “Thunderclap” shows Mahoraga in full glory battling against Sukuna, who ultimately defeats the shikigami and in turn, saves Megumi from suspended death. This display of Sukuna’s might is a stark reminder of the immense threat he poses, a threat that will only escalate in the Culling Game arc as his influence continues to spread.

4) “Right and Wrong, Part 3” (Season 2, Episode 20)

As the Shibuya Incident reaches its devastating climax, this episode focuses on the harrowing experiences of Yuji Itadori as he grapples with the aftermath of Sukuna’s rampage and the shocking turn of events for his best friend, Nobara Kugisaki. The sheer despair and helplessness Yuji feels is palpable, making this a deeply emotional and character-driven episode. It forces Yuji to confront the horrific consequences of his existence as Sukuna’s vessel and reinforce what he and his friends are fighting for, setting him on a path of profound personal growth and determination.

The return of Aoi Todo provides a much-needed beacon of hope amidst the devastation, reigniting Yuji’s fighting spirit. Their reunion, though brief, is a powerful moment that emphasizes the importance of their bond and how much Todo believes in Yuji when he needs a friend the most. This episode is crucial for understanding the emotional toll of the Shibuya Incident and the resolve of characters like Yuji, who will undoubtedly carry these burdens into the Culling Game.

5) “Transformation” (Season 2, Episode 21)

This episode delivers the long-awaited and utterly visceral showdown between Yuji Itadori and Mahito, a battle that has been building since the first season and the litany of atrocities Mahito committed. The fight is a brutal ballet of cursed energy and physical combat, pushing both characters to their absolute limits. Yuji’s unwavering determination to land blow after blow, despite Mahito’s insidious Idle Transfiguration, is a testament to his resilience and newfound understanding of his role as a sorcerer. Yuji is not only fighting for the future, but to avenge those Mahito killed, including Junpei Yoshino, Kento Namami, and Nobara Kugisaki.

The animation in this episode is nothing short of phenomenal, capturing the fluid and grotesque nature of Mahito’s techniques and the raw power of Yuji’s strikes. It’s a deeply satisfying culmination of their rivalry, as Yuji finally corners his tormentor and delivers a series of devastating blows amidst an imaginary backdrop of snow and a pack of ravenous wolves. This intense confrontation marks a significant turning point for Yuji’s character, showcasing his growth and hardening him for the trials that await him in the Culling Game. After experiencing tragedy upon tragedy in the Shibuya Incident, Yuji’s win against Mahito was a sorely needed victory for viewers.

RELATED: “Sure to Exceed Expectations”: Jujutsu Kaisen Season 3 Star Hints the Anime Could Top Season 2

6) “Shibuya Incident – Gate, Close” (Season 2, Episode 23)

The official conclusion to the Shibuya Incident arc, this episode ties up many loose ends while simultaneously unraveling the terrifying implications of Kenjaku’s master plan. We witness the full extent of the chaos unleashed and the devastating impact on the jujutsu world. The episode sets a grim tone for the future, highlighting the fragility of human-sorcerer relations and the new, dangerous landscape that lies ahead.

Crucially, this episode features the long-awaited return of Special Grade sorcerer Yuta Okkotsu, a character of immense power and importance from Jujutsu Kaisen 0. His reintroduction, coupled with his declaration of intent to kill Yuji, immediately raises the stakes and introduces a powerful new dynamic heading into the Culling Game. The final moments of this episode are a chilling preview of the challenges and betrayals that will define the upcoming arc.

7) “The Origin of Obedience – 2” (Season 1, Episode 23)

While often overshadowed by the Shibuya Incident, this episode from Season One is a pivotal moment for Megumi Fushiguro, showcasing his growing power and his willingness to push his limits. The battle against the cursed womb brothers, Eso and Kechizu, culminates in Megumi’s incomplete Domain Expansion: Chimera Shadow Garden. This moment is a thrilling display of his potential and his evolving understanding of his own cursed technique.

Megumi’s decision to take a calculated risk and unleash his Domain Expansion, even in its incomplete form, signifies a crucial shift in his character from a self-sacrificing mindset to one of strategic self-preservation for the sake of his allies. This development is vital, as Megumi will play a central role in the Culling Game, where his intelligence and unique cursed technique will be indispensable.

8) “Small Fry and Reverse Retribution” (Season 1, Episode 9)

This early episode serves as a powerful introduction to the horrors of Mahito and the tragic consequences of his cruelty. The arc focusing on Junpei Yoshino is a heart-wrenching descent into despair, as Yuji witnesses firsthand the devastating effects of Mahito’s harrowing Idle Transfiguration. The emotional weight of this episode, as Yuji fails to save his friend, is a pivotal moment in his development, fueling his hatred for Mahito and his resolve to protect others.

The episode also introduces Yuji’s new mentor, Kento Nanami, whose calm demeanor and pragmatic approach provide a grounded contrast to Yuji’s raw emotions and Gojo’s shenanigans. Nanami’s insights into cursed energy and his dedication to his duties further highlight the harsh realities of being a jujutsu sorcerer. This episode establishes the emotional stakes and the ever-present danger that permeates the Jujutsu Kaisen world, a grim precursor to the Culling Game’s brutal nature.

9) “Shibuya Incident – Gate, Open” (Season 2, Episode 9)

“Assault” is the beginning of the Shibuya Incident arc and plunges viewers directly into the coordinated attack on Shibuya by Kenjaku and his allied curses. The sheer scale and meticulous planning of the villains are immediately evident, creating an atmosphere of intense tension and dread. This episode rapidly escalates the stakes, showing how the jujutsu sorcerers are strategically outmaneuvered and forced onto the defensive.

The episode also highlights Gojo’s overwhelming power as he single-handedly confronts a multitude of cursed spirits and transfigured humans. However, it’s also the episode where Kenjaku’s plan to seal Gojo is set into motion, leading to one of the most shocking and impactful moments in the entire series. Witnessing Gojo’s vulnerability at the sight of what he thinks is his dead best friend, despite his strength, sets the stage for the desperate struggles that define the rest of the arc and the path to the Culling Game.

10) “Accomplices” (Season 1, Episode 24)

The Season One finale, “Accomplices,” culminates in a thrilling tag-team battle between Yuji Itadori and Nobara Kugisaki against the Death Painting Wombs, Eso and Kechizu. This episode brilliantly showcases the unique synergy between Yuji and Nobara, highlighting their evolving combat styles and their unwavering trust in one another that redefines their friendship. Their combined cursed techniques and strategic thinking make for a dynamic and satisfying conclusion to the season.

This episode is a testament to the growth of the Tokyo Jujutsu High first-years and their potential as a formidable unit. The emotional impact of Nobara’s resonance and Yuji’s Black Flash on the cursed spirits adds a layer of depth to the action. The camaraderie and determination of all Jujutsu High students will be essential moving forward, especially as they face the unprecedented challenges and moral ambiguities of the Culling Game.

The post 10 Best Jujutsu Kaisen Episodes to Get Excited for Season 3 appeared first on ComicBook.com.

The character that made the entire Jujutsu Kaisen fan base want to hit the gym is back in the upcoming Hidden Inventory/Premature Death movie. To celebrate the impending release of the movie, Toji Fushiguro is the centre of the film’s latest promo. The iconic mercenary didn’t have a lot of screen time in Jujutsu Kaisen’s second season, but he was an instant fan favorite and stole every scene he was in (even the ones featuring Gojo!). Fans will soon get to see Toji’s nonchalant approach to dealing with Cursed Technique users on the big screen, as Hidden Inventory/Premature Death arrives in theaters this July.

The new movie is a recap/compilation film of the first half of Jujutsu Kaisen‘s second season. Adapting the titular “Hidden Inventory” and “Premature Death” arcs, the film takes audiences back in time to way before Yuji Itadori swallowed Sukuna’s finger, as Gojo and Geto are tasked with protecting Riko Amanai, with Toji and a swarm of mercenaries hunting them down.

Toji Returns to Theaters This July

Ahead of Hidden Inventory/Premature Death‘s theatrical release on July 16, a new character promo has been revealed featuring Jujutsu Kaisen‘s most iconic, powerless character (sorry, Maki Zenin): Toji Fushiguro. The poster depicts Toji with his signature scar across his lips and his unkempt black hair. In the promo, the villain also sports his signature costume, which is unintentionally the easiest cosplay of all time (minus the biceps bigger than most people’s heads).

As well as the individual character poster, Toji Fishiguro’s Japanese voice actor, Takehito Koyasu, has released a message for fans hyping up Jujutsu Kaisen on the big screen. “It’s a great joy to be able to experience such excitement and emotion in theaters,” Koyasu’s statement began. “Toji Fushiguro feels to me like a man drawn in by fate, like a gemstone pulled in by some unseen force. He’s someone whose brilliance burned bright only for a moment before being consumed by it — a tragic past.”

Koyasu clearly feels a deep personal connection to the character. “But because of that, I want him to be remembered by someone,” he continued. Fortunately, that wish has come true, as Toji has since become one of the most iconic characters in the franchise (you can’t kill Gojo and not become iconic). “Maybe it’s selfish of me, as the voice actor, to wish for that. But he definitely lived. If this film helps bring him to life once more, even if just in memory, I’d be truly happy.”

[RELATED – Jujutsu Kaisen Creator Shares Official JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure Art]

Jujutsu Kaisen Season 3 When?

Hidden Inventory/Premature Death might not be the biggest anime movie releasing this season — a tie between Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle and Chainsaw Man: Reze Arc — but the film’s theatrical release has put attention firmly back on MAPPA’s beloved shonen franchise.

With Jujutsu Kaisen back in the spotlight, fans are once again demanding to know when the third season will be released. Season 3 has already been confirmed to be in the works and will adapt the “Culling Game” arc, as the series begins to head towards its final arcs. However, neither a release date nor a window has been announced for the third season. Fans are hoping that a release date will be revealed once Hidden Inventory/Premature Death releases in theaters.

H/T: Jujutsu Kaisen on X

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Gege Akutami has plenty of time on his hands at the moment, as Jujutsu Kaisen ended its manga in 2024. As fans think back fondly on the often devastating adventures of Jujutsu Tech, the anime adaptation still has to cover some main events to catch up. Luckily for fans, Akutami is still very much in the art game and his most recent offering brings him right into the world of JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure. In the next JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure magazine, Akutami has lent their talents to one of the biggest supporting characters of the franchise, breathing new life into Kishibe Rohan.

Manga artists for some time have been major fans of one another, routinely sharing their takes on major anime figures that didn’t spring from their brains. Eiichiro Oda famously drew Dragon Ball characters, Hirohiko Araki drew the ninja of Naruto, and even My Hero Academia’s Kohei Horikoshi took a crack at the students of Jujutsu Tech. Alongside the new art for the Joestars’ universe, Akutami even shared that he is a big fan of the franchise’s fourth entry, Diamond Is Unbreakable, “I like the refreshing sense of realism in Part 4 compared to the earlier parts. I think the reason Josuke didn’t kill Okuyasu—’I just thought there was no reason for you to die’—really symbolizes that.”

[RELATED: New JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure Live-Action Movie Will Give Surprise Gift To Fans]

A Joestar Summer

Gege Akutami isn’t the only manga artist who is creating a new take on the anime world of Stands. On top of the Jujutsu Kaisen creator, manga artists that are contributing to the “JoJo Magazine 2025 Summer” magazine include March Comes In Like A Lion’s Chica Umino, Pop Team Epic’s Bkub Okawa, Bungo Stray Dogs’ Shiwasu Hoshikawa, A Story To Read When You First Fall in Love’s Aki Mochida, and The Old Man Who Was Reincarnated as a Cat’s Yajima. The publication is already hitting Stands in Japan so expect more Joestar announcements and you can see more of the artwork in the X thread below.

Aside from this brand new artwork, the latest publication has a special focus on Kishibe Rohan as the fictional manga artist is preparing to once again hit the world of live-action. Thus Spoke Kishibe Rohan: Confessional is arriving in Japanese theaters and recreates one of Rohan’s creepiest adventures from his spin-off series. Unfortunately, it seems doubtful that this cinematic effort will make its way to theaters, but like the television series that preceded it, the live-action Rohan adventure will most likely hit the West down the line.

The Steel Ball Run is Coming

While Kishibe Rohan might be getting the lion’s share of attention at the moment, Johnny Joestar and Gyro Zeppeli are preparing to take the world by storm. Earlier this year, the anime franchise announced that an anime adaptation of The Steel Ball Run is in the works, though a release date has yet to be revealed. Fingers crossed that we won’t be waiting too long for what many consider to be one of the biggest entries of the series.

Want to see what the future holds for Stands and curses alike? Follow along with Team Anime on ComicBook.com for the latest updates on JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure and Jujutsu Kaisen.

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One Piece has been in the news for a variety of reasons in recent days but one of said reasons has been the Straw Hats teaming up with Major League Baseball for special anime-themed nights at the ballpark. Now, Luffy and his crew aren’t the only ones that will be creating a baseball-themed event. The students and teachers of Jujutsu Tech are preparing to have an anime event with MLB’s Texas Rangers as Jujutsu Kaisen has announced a collaboration that will arrive this summer. Get your cleats ready and prepare to fight curses as we have the details about this new crossover.

The special anime-themed night will take place on July 1st this summer, with Jujutsu Kaisen even going so far as to create Texas Rangers jerseys. The night itself will see the Rangers taking on the Baltimore Orioles and here’s how the MLB organization is teasing the event, “Join fellow Jujutsu Sorcerers at Globe Life Field as the Texas Rangers host Jujutsu Kaisen Night on July 1. Theme night tickets purchased through this offer will come with a co-branded Jujutsu Kaisen jersey. Get here early and visit Texas Live! for pre-game trivia. Watch Jujutsu Kaisen on Crunchyroll.” You can find more information on the official MLB website by clicking here.

[RELATED: Jujutsu Kaisen Season 3 Could Drop a New Update Sooner Than You Expect]

Major League Anime

Major League Baseball hasn’t just teamed up with One Piece and Jujutsu Kaisen, the league has created an official anime short of its own. MLB Anime: Heroes of The Game was an anime short that featured some of the biggest baseball players in the world, including the likes of Shohei Ohtani, Paul Skenes, Aaron Judge and Juan Soto. The special collab was directed by Hiroshi Shimizu, a legend in the medium who has been a part of major franchises including Blue Exorcist, Dragon Ball Z, My Hero Academia, and countless others. You can watch the special video below.

Jujutsu Tech’s Future

Last year, Jujutsu Kaisen creator Gege Akutami ended Yuji Itadori and his friends’ story in the pages of the supernatural shonen’s manga. Despite this fact, the anime adaptation still has plenty of material to cover, which is great news as the second season was one of the anime record books. The Shibuya Incident Arc changed the game and left Yuji in a place where enemy and ally alike are looking for him. While Studio MAPPA has yet to confirm a release date for the anime adaptation’s return, Jujutsu Tech’s comeback will be a major event in the anime world whenever it happens. Since MAPPA has quite the full plate in terms of anime projects, we might be waiting for this return for quite some time.

Want to see what the future holds for both Jujutsu Tech and Major League Baseball crossovers? Follow along with Team Anime on ComicBook.com for the latest updates on Jujutsu Kaisen and hit me up directly @EVComedy to talk all things comics and anime.

The post Jujutsu Kaisen Teaming Up With Major League Baseball For Anime Collab appeared first on ComicBook.com.

Fans just can’t get enough action from all the fights, escapades, and missions anime has to offer. Action has always been a widely popular genre in anime, if not the most popular genre. It’s even probably one of the more versatile that meshes incredibly well with most other combinations of genres. Melees full of god-like strength like in Dragon Ball, comedic slapstick brawls like those in Gintama, grappling with monsters like in Tokyo Ghoul, action-packed fantastical adventures like those of One Piece — there’s truly an action anime for anyone’s tastes.

Over the years, there have only been more and more awesome additions to the library of action-packed titles. More titles, more to watch, more to love, and, of course, more action. And how could audiences not be glued to the screen and on the edge of their seats with such fast-paced high stakes, intense battle choreography, and exciting adrenaline-pumping thrills? And while the list could go on and on with new and old titles that have had substantial fanbases over the years, these ones are the best of the best!

1) Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood

The Elric brothers, in their endeavor to bring their mother back from the dead, ignored the ban of human transmutation and ended up paying a hefty price. While trespassing the taboo cost Edward an arm and a leg, Alphonse lost his entire body. With their bio-mechanical engineer neighbor and friend Winry able to fit Edward with advanced automail prosthetic limbs, Alphonse had his soul bound to an entire suit of armor in Edward’s attempt to save him. Determined to restore their bodies, they set out to find the Philosopher’s Stone, an item said to allow an alchemist to defy the traditional laws of Equivalent Exchange, and become caught in the middle of a conspiracy along the way.

With secrets, mysteries, and conspiracies in a fantastical, action-packed adventure, the determined brothers face extremely high stakes in their quest. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is a classic that has been at the top of the charts for anime in general for many years and for good reason.

Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood can be streamed on Netflix and Crunchyroll.

2) Dandadan

When feisty gyaru Momo Ayase defends the meek, geeky Ken Takakura, dubbed Okarun, from bullies throwing trash at the poor guy just trying to read his magazine, he follows after his new friend. Misunderstanding her intentions, he presumes she is also into aliens and the occult. Saying she’s not into aliens and UFOs but she does believe in ghosts prompts Okarun to chuckle that ghosts aren’t real. The two begin to argue their points on whether or not aliens or ghosts are the real deal. Thus, beginning their unusual, deepening friendship founded on the resulting, arguably more absurd, consequences – getting Okarun’s family jewels back from the very things they questioned existing.

Aliens, ghosts, grannies — oh my! But as formidable of foes Momo and Okarun face are, this duo manages to not only overcome whatever gets in their way of retrieving Okarun’s golden balls, but gain some incredible powers themselves along the way in this supernatural action comedy.

Dandadan can be streamed on Netflix and Crunchyroll.

3) Attack on Titan

When mankind had been on the brink of extinction centuries ago, they took to hiding behind massive stone walls from the man-eating humanoid monsters known as Titans. One hundred peaceful years came to pass without threat of Titans. That is, until one Titan managed to break through the wall, forcing the humans to return to fighting for their lives and living in fear. Eren Yeager, one such citizen who bore witness to his own mother perish at the hands of a Titan, vows vengeance upon the entire race by enlisting into the Survey Corps, a specialized military unit that fights back against the Titans outside the city walls. Along with his adopted sister Mikasa Ackerman and childhood friend Armin Arlert, the secrets of the Titans becomes something even more horrifying as each mystery is uncovered.

It doesn’t get much more action-packed than a plot that revolves around characters constantly fighting for their very lives against voracious monsters who wish nothing more than to gobble up the entire human race.

Attack on Titan can be streamed on Crunchyroll.

4) Mob Psycho 100

What reserved, passive middle schooler Shigeo “Mob” Kageyama lacks in friends due to his distant, inexpressive demeanor he makes up for in pure unadulterated psychic power. Or at least, in theory. Ever since lashing out and accidentally injuring his younger brother, Ritsu, Mob had resolved to keep his emotions, and therefore, psychic abilities, in check. Although, he does occasionally use it to try to impress his crush, Tsubomi Takane. But when she grows bored of Mob’s repetitive tricks, he seeks to better control his power, and so becomes the apprentice of the con artist, Arataka Reigen, who claims to also be psychic. In the business of exorcising evil spirits, Reigen exploits Mob’s supernatural abilities for money. As much as Mob tries to control his power by suppressing his emotions, his untapped potential fights to let his emotions run rampant, driving him towards exploding at 100% power capacity.

Although Mob tries to control his power by suppressing his emotions, his untapped potential fights to let his emotions run rampant, driving him towards exploding at 100% power capacity in pure unadulterated psychic power. As much as there’s a ton of intense supernatural action being dished out, there’s also plenty of relatable, endearing comedy

Mob Psycho 100 can be streamed on Netflix, Hulu, and Crunchyroll.

5) Vinland Saga

Thorfinn, born in his homeland of Iceland, had once received a bespoke piece of advice from his father: “You have no enemies, nobody does. There is nobody who it’s okay to hurt.” But when a man named Askeladd kills his father, Thorfinn takes up work as a mercenary, seeking revenge with death and war becoming the reality Thorfinn endures in his daily life. With constant war between England and the Danes, the Vikings actually enjoy making a living collecting the spoils and making names for themselves. Recalling tales from sailors he’d heard as a young lad, tales of a land warm and fertile and free of fighting, Thorfinn seeks the legendary Vinland.

The Vikings in Vinland Saga live to fight, although Thorfinn fights in the hope that he can eventually find something more to live for himself. Even so, Thorfinn’s views on violence drastically change over the course of the story.

Vinland Saga can be streamed on Netflix, Prime Video, and Crunchyroll.

[RELATED: 10 Best Historical Anime for When You’re Done With Vinland Saga]

6) Jujutsu Kaisen

As a member of the Occult Club and having a bedridden grandfather, Yuji Itadori often spends his time either at school or at the hospital. But his relatively leisurely life comes to an abrupt halt when he discovers an actual cursed object, triggering a chain of supernatural consequences. Upon swallowing the cursed item, a finger belonging to the King of Curses, the demon Sukuna Ryoumen, Yuji gains his own powers and faces a whole new world full of Curses, beings of pure dread, malice, and negativity, that threaten society. Now having to attend the Tokyo Metropolitan Jujutsu Technical High School, Yuji must now become a Jujutsu sorcerer.

Premiering in 2020, this supernatural action shonen series by MAPPA was and has been one of the most popular over the past few years, even garnering attention and praise as a sort of gateway anime for former normies turned new fans.

Jujutsu Kaisen can be streamed on Netflix, Crunchyroll, and Hulu where available.

7) Spy x Family

As the neighboring countries Ostania and Westalis quietly plot against each other, spy Twilight takes on the alias of psychiatrist Loid Forger in the Ostanian city of Berlint to conduct intel. His target: the politician Donovan Desmond. The problem is Donovan only rarely appears at his son’s school, Eden Academy. In order to get closer to his target, Loid enlists Yor Briar, an unmarried city hall clerk, and Anya, his newly adopted daughter who he enrolls at Eden Academy, to act as a normal happy family. Unbeknownst to the spy, Loid’s new family hides their own secrets — Yor is actually an assassin known as “Thorn Princess” and Anya is a telepath secretly able to read others’ minds.

Through secret spy operations, assassination services, and school assignments, even though the family starts out as a façade, their love for each other grows to be true, each cherishing their forged relationships.

Spy x Family can be streamed on Hulu and Crunchyroll where available.

8) Naruto

In the Hidden Leaf Village, Konohagakure, Naruto Uzumaki, a young, aspiring ninja, is shunned by the wary community. The leader, the Fourth Hokage, had sacrificed his life and sealed the Nine-Tailed Fox demon within the newborn Naruto to prevent it from wreaking havoc on the village. But Naruto doesn’t let his circumstances and rejection from others deter him — with a rambunctious, mischievous nature, he’s determined to become the next Hokage and gain the village’s recognition and respect. Making friends along the way, Naruto trains to become a strong and capable ninja, facing many new foes and the demon inside himself.

With a franchise as bold, iconic, and enduring as the namesake himself, Naruto, though he faces challenge after challenge in ninja training, doesn’t let anything stop him. Naruto’s fight to accomplish his dreams in the face of adversity is the epitome of “never give up”. Believe it!

Naruto can be streamed on Netflix, Amazon, Hulu, Peacock, Crunchyroll, and more.

9) Neon Genesis Evangelion

As Earth is attacked by strange celestial alien beings known as Angels, it’s up to the mysterious scientific organization NERV headed by Gendo Ikari to defend humanity through the use of Evangelion, giant piloted humanoid “robots”. When Gendo calls upon his abandoned son Shinji to become one of these pilots, Shinji, alongside fellow pilots Asuka Langley Soryu and Rei Ayanami, faces a lot more at stake than defending humanity from giant monsters as the secrets behind NERV and Gendo’s ambitions are revealed.

Shinji Ikari may not be very eager to fight for humanity’s survival, but there’s certainly no lack of larger-than-life “mecha” combats. But his own fight for survival ends up being a bit more existential than simply saving his skin.

Neon Genesis Evangelion can be streamed on Netflix.

10) Bleach

Ichigo Kurosaki has the unique ability as an otherwise normal high schooler to see spirits. When his family is attacked by a Hollow, a corrupted spirit hungry for human souls, Ichigo’s thrust into not just observing but participating in the spirit world. After Soul Reaper Rukia Kuchiki is injured in her battle with the Hollow, Ichigo gains her abilities in order to defeat the malicious spirit and protect his family. But when Rukia is unable to regain her powers, Ichigo must hunt down Hollows in her stead. Later joined by classmates Orihime Inoue, Yasutora Sado, and Uryuu Ishida with their own abilities, Ichigo endeavors to fight against the Hollows and other uncovered threats.

Bleach has been a long-popular series since its debut in 2004 and still is with its ongoing and final arc in Thousand-Year Blood War. With hundreds of episodes, Bleach has plenty of action to binge.

Bleach can be streamed on Disney+ or Hulu where available.

What’s your go-to action anime? Let us know in the comments what series you think would be an instant favorite to anyone!

The post 10 Best Popular Action Anime That Live Up to the Hype appeared first on ComicBook.com.

It’s been a while since Jujutsu Kaisen wrapped up its story in the manga, and yet, fans are still just as divided on the series’ ending and the climactic final battle. One of the biggest gripes that fans have with Jujutsu Kaisen‘s Shinjuku Showdown is, without a doubt, Gojo’s ending in the series, which saw him fall against Sukuna. A huge reason fans were disappointed with the series following this is the heavy symbolism that alluded to rebirth and enlightenment in Chapter 236, which led many to believe Gojo would inevitably return.

While Gojo did return, it was not in the way fans had hoped, with Yuta taking over Gojo’s body temporarily, using Kenjaku’s Cursed Technique. As a result, the symbolism and foreshadowing in Chapter 236 felt wasted to many. However, Gojo’s death and the infamous airport scene may actually be the most crucial scene in all of Jujutsu Kaisen and the series’ final arc, even if it didn’t culminate in Gojo’s return as fans had hoped, and here’s why.

The Airport Scene Establishes the Themes of Jujutsu Kaisen’s Final Battle

Chapter 236 of Jujutsu Kaisen opens directly with Gojo talking to Geto at an airport, which seemingly signifies a type of limbo before the afterlife. Fans are hit with the shocking realization that Gojo has lost to Sukuna and died, as he also meets other already deceased characters like Nanami, Haibara, and Principal Yaga. It is here that Nanami curiously recounts a conversation he once had with Mei Mei about where he should go to live, with Mei Mei telling Nanami to go north if he wished to start new and south if he wanted to return to his old self. This concept of “going north” to become a new person forms the entire basis of the finale and Yuji’s final battle against Sukuna.

[RELATED: Jujutsu Kaisen Creator Shares New Gojo & Geto Art Ahead of New Movie]

Adding to this, Chapter 236 is also full of Buddhist symbolism that supplements this idea of rebirth and “going north.” The chapter most notably includes a shot of seven lotuses during Gojo’s conversation with Geto. Not only do lotuses by themselves represent enlightenment and rebirth, but the fact that there are seven of them is a clear reference to the seven steps Buddha took towards enlightenment, with a lotus blooming under his feet with every step.

All of this symbolism surrounding rebirth and enlightenment understandably led many to believe Gojo would return re-enlightened, much like he did against Toji during the Hidden Inventory Arc. Even though Gojo did not return from the dead like fans had theorized, this symbolism was not wasted in the slightest, instead serving as a setup for the final ideological clash between Sukuna and Yuji.

Jujutsu Kaisen’s Airport Scene Sets the Stage for Sukuna’s Defeat

Much like the airport scene in Chapter 236, Yuji’s domain expansion, when first cast, also takes him and Sukuna to a crossroad of sorts in the form of a train station. The real-life inspiration behind the train station seen in Chapter 264, which is Kitakami Station, and the platform that Sukuna is seated on all point to Yuji leading Sukuna north. Even the hand sign that Yuji uses when casting his domain is associated with Kṣitigarbha, who is known to lead lost souls to enlightenment.

Fittingly enough, the subsequent chapters see Yuji convince Sukuna to start anew while taking him through his domain, attempting to show him that one can find meaning in life through other means. All of this culminates in Chapter 268 with Yuji acknowledging that Sukuna might not have turned into the monster that he did had his circumstances been different and had Sukuna had someone to rely on like Yuji had his grandfather. Yuji ultimately tells Sukuna he accepts him even if no one else does, and offers to live peacefully with Sukuna in the end, essentially giving him a chance to start anew.

But of course, Sukuna rejects Yuji’s offer, choosing to cling to his pride and his ideals instead of relying on Yuji for his survival. Having said that, Chapter 272 does see Sukuna acknowledge that he could have gone down a different path, implying that Yuji’s ideals did indeed win over his own in the end. Anticlimactic as Jujutsu Kaisen’s ending may have been, it’s impossible to deny that this final battle against Sukuna was beautifully written, with the airport scene serving as the foundation block for it all.

Jujutsu Kaisen is available to read on Manga Plus and Viz Media and can be streamed on Crunchyroll.

The post Jujutsu Kaisen’s Airport Scene Is the Most Crucial Scene of the Series, and Here’s Why appeared first on ComicBook.com.

The Jujutsu Kaisen manga ended last year, concluding the intense battle in Shinjuku. However, the anime has only covered the manga till the Shibuya Incident Arc and will be continuing the story in Season 3. It was confirmed in December 2023, but there haven’t been many major updates about it so far. Season 3 will be by far the most crucial part of the story, focusing on the aftermath of the Shibuya Incident. The Jujutsu world is in chaos, and Gojo being trapped inside the Prison Realm only makes matters worse for them. The sorcerers will not only have to defeat the enemies but also look for a way to free the strongest sorcerer.

The only update we have about Season 3 is from Jump Festa in December 2024, where Jujutsu Kaisen unveiled a stunning visual featuring Yuji Itadori. Ever since then, fans have been awaiting more updates. Even the AnimeJapan event that was held in March 2025 only shared information about the Hidden Inventory/Premature Death Arc movie, and nothing about the upcoming season. The first season was released in Fall 202,0 while the second season debuted in Summer 2023. Considering the time gap between those two seasons, we should expect the third season to drop next year. However, that’s still a stretch considering there’s been no information from the studio. But what if MAPPA is planning to announce something major at this upcoming anime event?

[RELATED: “Sure to Exceed Expectations”: Jujutsu Kaisen Season 3 Star Hints the Anime Could Top Season 2]

MAPPA Is Taking the Stage at Anime Expo 2025

For over three decades now, the annual anime event held in California, known as Anime Expo, has been bringing exciting news for global fans. Each year, the event celebrates Japanese pop culture, features panels, holds workshops, and so on. The official X account of the event announced that there will be a MAPPA panel, the studio behind Jujutsu Kaisen’s anime. The account also shared that President Manabu Otsuka and Vice President Hiroya Hasegawa will talk about the upcoming film Chainsaw Man – The Movie: Reze Arc and more. Fans obviously noticed the loaded potential of the ambiguous “and more” at the end, and who can blame them?

This means that while they will promote the upcoming film that will be released in September 2024, there will also be discussions about more projects. The panel at Anime Expo will also share behind-the-scenes stories about anime production. The Expo will be held from July 3rd to July 6th. However, the MAPPA panel will only be included on July 3rd from 4:00 pm to 4:50 pm JST at Petree Hall in the Los Angeles Convention Center.

Jujutsu Kaisen is the biggest project under the studio, so it’s unlikely they will neglect to mention it at all. We might even get a hint about the release window, which hasn’t been revealed yet. Furthermore, while the visuals released in Jump Festa were stunning, it doesn’t shed light on the arc itself. We have yet to see the character designs, teaser, and basically everything else at this point. The wait seems especially long considering how the second season ended on a major cliffhanger with Yuta’s arrival.

H/T: Anime Expo at X

The post Jujutsu Kaisen Season 3 Could Drop a New Update Sooner Than You Expect appeared first on ComicBook.com.

Jujutsu Kaisen is returning to theaters this summer with the Hidden Inventory/Premature Death movie. But, JJK fans are in for another, even more surprising treat this summer season to go along with the film. The “Hidden Inventory/Premature Death” arc kicked off the second season of Jujutsu Kaisen, giving fans a glimpse into the past as a younger Gojo and Geto had to fight against the easiest cosplay in anime history: Toji. The arc set up the “Shibuya Incident” arc in the second half of season 2, and fleshed out the lore of Jujutsu Kaisen‘s anime universe.

Along with MAPPA’s anime, Gege Akutami’s hit Shonen Jump manga has also been adapted into a hit stage play. Just like with other major Shonen Jump series, like Demon Slayer, JJK‘s stage play has been a tremendous hit so far, and, ahead of Season 3 and the Hidden Inventory/Premature Death movie, the stage play is bringing the popular prequel arc to live action.

JJK’s Stage Play Adapts the “Hidden Inventory/Premature Death” Arc

The Jujutsu Kaisen stage play returns to Tokyo during the height of the summer season for its fourth outing. This time around, the stage play will adapt the “Hidden Inventory/Premature Death” arc into live-action. The show will return to the stage this August, bringing a younger Gojo and Geto with it.

The first Jujutsu Kaisen stage play took place in July 2022 in Tokyo and Osaka. Over the past three shows, the stage play has already adapted the “Kyoto Goodwill Event” arc and “The Origin of Blind Obedience” episodes. The Jujutsu Kaisen 0 movie was also adapted into a stage play in December 2024.

Ryosuke Miura and Rei Fujita will play Satoru Gojo and Suguru Geto, respectively, in the stage play, reprising their roles from the third show. The show’s creators, Kohei Kiyasu and Kensaku Kobayashi, are returning to oversee the “Hidden Inventory/Premature Death” play. The first teaser poster for the new performance has also been shared on the stage play’s official X (formerly Twitter) account. In the poster, the young Gojo and Geto run through glass into the distance, with their faces hidden.

[RELATED – Jujutsu Kaisen’s Successor Reveals New Look Ahead of Summer Release]

Hidden Inventory/Premature Death Movie Releases This July

For those who don’t want to make the trip over to Japan to see the Jujutsu Kaisen stage play (especially if you don’t speak Japanese, which would be awkward), you can enjoy the “Hidden Inventory/Premature Death” arc from the comfort of your home nation this summer on the big screen. The respective episodes from Season 2 of MAPPA’s anime have been compressed into a feature film. GKIDS is bringing the Hidden Inventory/Premature Death movie to theaters across the US and Canada from July 16.

As for Season 3 of the anime, it appears as though we’ll be waiting a little while longer. The third season is officially in the works and was announced by MAPPA shortly after Season 2 came to a close. But don’t expect to see Yuji Itadori return to our screens anytime soon. The series hasn’t been given a release date yet, but is currently expected to be released sometime in 2026.

H/T: Jujutsu Kaisen Stage Play X

The post Jujutsu Kaisen Returns This Year (But Not How You Think) appeared first on ComicBook.com.

Jujutsu Kaisen is returning to theaters with a new movie later this Summer, and the creator behind it all has shared some cute new art of Satoru Gojo and Suguru Geto to help celebrate its upcoming premiere. Jujutsu Kaisen Season 3 is now in the works for a release in the future, but fans will still get more of the anime to enjoy this year. Because while the next season has yet to confirm its release window or date as of the time of this publication, the franchise is coming to theaters with a new movie showing off one of the anime’s best arcs so far.

Jujutsu Kaisen is coming to theaters with a new compiled version of the Hidden Inventory and Premature Death arcs seen in the second season of the anime, and series creator Gege Akutami has been returning to celebrate the series with all sorts of new sketches for the main duo at the center of it all. This is the case for his newest batch of fun sketches that include not only cute new takes on Gojo and Geto, but new takes on Shoko Ieiri and and Toji Fushiguro. Check it out below as spotted by @Go_Jover on X.

When Does Jujutsu Kaisen’s New Movie Come Out?

JUJUTSU KAISEN: Hidden Inventory / Premature Death – The Movie will first be coming to theaters across Japan on May 30th, and GKIDS will be officially releasing the new film in theaters in the United States and Canada on July 16th. The new release will feature both Japanese and English dubbed audio options, and an all-new acoustic version of Tatsuya Kitani’s “Where Our Blue Is,” which was first heard as the opening theme for the arc during Jujutsu Kaisen Season 2. It’s a new take on the arc seen in the TV anime, but has been promising some new materials during its debut in Japan.

GKIDS begins to tease JUJUTSU KAISEN: Hidden Inventory / Premature Death – The Movie as such, “Before they were enemies, Satoru Gojo and Suguru Geto were high school classmates and friends. The two powerful sorcerers are tasked with protecting Riko Amanai, a student who has been designated to be sacrificed as the Star Plasma Vessel, until she can fulfill her duty.” As teased by the synopsis, the film will be a new take on the arc first seen in the anime’s second season.

RELATED: Jujutsu Kaisen’s Hidden Inventory Movie Confirmed To Include Original Content by Creator

Jujutsu Kaisen’s New Movie Is a Big Deal

GKIDS continues to tease what to expect from the new movie as such, “Pursued by a religious cult and other curse users, they are the only sorcerers capable of carrying out such a difficult task – but this mission will set their destinies, and challenge the two sorcerers in ways unimaginable. The beloved and deeply emotional ‘Hidden Inventory / Premature Death’ arc from the global phenomenon JUJUTSU KAISEN returns to the big screen, reaching all new heights for fans and newcomers alike.”

JUJUTSU KAISEN: Hidden Inventory / Premature Death – The Movie is going to be the only new Jujutsu Kaisen anime release fans will likely get to see this year as the third season seems to be quite a ways off. The third season is now in the works, and will be taking on the Culling Game arc from Gege Akutami’s original manga series. It’s yet to be announced when the new season will hit, and we likely won’t get any real looks at it until next year. If you wanted to catch up with everything that’s happened in Jujutsu Kaisen so far, you can now check it out on Netflix, Hulu, and Crunchyroll in the meantime.

The post Jujutsu Kaisen Creator Shares New Gojo & Geto Art Ahead of New Movie appeared first on ComicBook.com.

Every new anime is trying to be the next big thing, but one upcoming series could actually achieve that unofficial title. Gachiakuta is one of Summer 2025’s most anticipated new releases. The series, adapted from the manga by Kei Urana and Hideyoshi Andou, has a massive base of die-hard readers and is often called the spiritual successor to Gege Akutami’s Jujutsu Kaisen. Ahead of the show’s debut this July, Gachiakuta has dropped a new poster and a short promo video showcasing one of its most popular characters, Riyo.

The new promo is part of a series of new character visuals and promo videos in the build-up to Season 1’s premiere. Rudo, Enjin, and Zanka have already had their fifteen seconds of fame. Now, Riyo is being thrust into the spotlight.

Gachiakuta Reveals New Riyu Promo

The new character promo was shared on the official Gachiakuta anime YouTube channel. The video perfectly encapsulates the chaotic and adrenaline-fuelled vibe of the manga, as flashing green texts rapidly dart on and off the screen, before fans get a better look at Riyu, along with some very on-brand text.

The text, which is in Japanese in the promo, translates to the character’s tagline, reading, “I sure am itching to go up against such a big, tough guy!” The official character description for Riyu reads, “A Giver who expertly wields the vital instrument ‘the Ripper’ with her feet. Normally cheerful and playful, she becomes strikingly pragmatic in battle.”

The new character poster, which was shared on the anime’s official X (formerly Twitter) account, gives fans a clearer look at Riyu from the video promo. The poster shows the character without her iconic gas mask, as her red hair darts off in all different directions. Check out the poster below…

[RELATED – Crunchyroll Announces Gachiakuta as Crunchyroll Exclusive With New Trailer]

What Is Gachiakuta About?

Gachiakuta‘s anime adaptation is being overseen by Studio Bones (Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood, My Hero Academia), with Fumihiko Suganuma (Dragon Quest: The Adventure of Dai) directing. Hiroshi Seko (Dandadan) is overseeing the series composition, Satoshi Ishino is the chief animation director and is also in charge of character design, and Taku Iwasaki (Gurren Lagann) is composing the score.

Gachiakuta is a relatively new series, first being published in Kodansha’s Weekly Shonen Magazine in February 2022. To date, 14 volumes have been released. Although it swaps the paranormal for sci-fi and monsters, Gachiakuta has a lot in common with Jujutsu Kaisen, from its fluid and adrenaline-pumping action scenes to its twist-filled storytelling.

The official synopsis for Gachiakuta reads, “Rudo lives in the slums of a floating town, where the poor scrape by under the shadow of the rich who live a sumptuous life, simply casting their garbage off the side, into the abyss. Then, one day, he’s falsely accused of murder, and his wrongful conviction leads to an unimaginable punishment—exile off the edge, with the rest of the trash. Down on the surface, the cast-off waste of humanity has bred vicious monsters, and if Rudo wants to have any hope of discovering the truth and seeking vengeance against those who cast him into Hell, he will have to master a new power and join a group known as the Cleaners who battle the hulking trash beasts of the Pit!”

Catch Gachiakuta as it comes to streaming audiences on Crunchyroll in July 2025.

H/T: Gachiakuta on X

The post Jujutsu Kaisen’s Successor Reveals New Look Ahead of Summer Release appeared first on ComicBook.com.

While Season 1 of Jujutsu Kaisen put the series on the map, Season 2 is where the series truly took off, with the highly anticipated Shibuya Arc blowing the series’ popularity completely out of the park. Besides the many excellent fights in the Shibuya Arc, Season 2 of Jujutsu Kaisen also gave fans a glimpse into the days of Gojo’s youth, depicting a whole new side of him that nobody knew existed. Soon enough, fans can experience this underrated arc of Season 2 in theaters through the compilation film of the Hidden Inventory Arc. On the occasion, Gojo’s voice actor, in a new interview, has revealed his favorite scene in Season 2 of Jujutsu Kaisen, and it may surprise fans.

In a recent interview posted to Jujutsu Kaisen’s official anime website, Gojo’s Japanese voice actor, Yuichi Nakamura, was asked which scene from the Hidden Inventory/Premature Death Arc left the strongest impression on him. Nakamura surprisingly revealed that the scene that stuck with him most was the confrontation between Gojo and Geto in Shinjuku. Nakamura’s response reads, “Every scene in ‘Hidden Inventory/Premature Death’ was memorable, but if I had to choose one, it would be the confrontation between Gojo and Geto in Shinjuku.” Nakamura’s reasons for choosing this scene in particular are quite surprising as well, with him revealing that the confrontation essentially changed his understanding of Gojo’s character as well as his performance as Gojo in the scene.

[RELATED: Jujutsu Kaisen Already Has Its True Successor (And It’s Not Kagurabachi)]

Yuichi Nakamura Reveals the Scene That Changes His Understanding of Gojo Forever

Ever since his introduction, Gojo has been set up as a cool, confident, and detached teacher. His position as one of the strongest sorcerers in jujutsu society also sets him apart as the kind who doesn’t emotionally connect with those around him or form personal connections. However, this changes greatly during the Hidden Inventory Arc when Gojo’s past relationship with Geto is revealed. It seems fans weren’t the only ones who had this impression of Gojo, as his voice actor Yuichi Nakamura also revealed thinking the same of Gojo when recording the confrontation between Gojo and Geto in Season 2 of Jujutsu Kaisen. Expanding on why this was his favorite scene, Nakamura revealed, “From reading the manga and performing in the first season and the movie, I had always thought, ‘Gojo isn’t the type of person who gets close to people.’ So at first, I performed the scene like every word Gojo said to Geto was just him expressing his feelings bluntly, like, ‘I don’t understand the meaning of what you did.'”

It seems Nakamura took on an emotionally detached tone at first, during the confrontation, but as he goes on to share, he was asked to take a different direction for the scene, one that showed more vulnerability on Gojo’s end. Nakamura said, “However, when I acted like that during the test recording, I was told, ‘The way you’re playing it now, Gojo just sounds like he’s throwing words at Geto, so please try to act like he came here to hear how Geto feels.’ In the end, the conversation turns into an argument, but we changed the direction of the beginning of the conversation from what I originally had, and that left a lasting impression on me.”

Many fans have dubbed this scene from the Shibuya Arc as one of the most heartbreaking moments in Season 2 of Jujutsu Kaisen, mainly because of how it brings out an unseen, almost human side to Gojo as he expresses real emotion for the first time in the series. Neither fans nor Gojo’s voice actor, Nakamura himself, were seemingly aware that Gojo could display such emotional vulnerability, and it did cost him quite heavily by playing right into Pseudo-Geto’s plans to trap him in the Prison Realm. It’s unclear whether fans will see such emotion again from Gojo until perhaps the final arc of Jujutsu Kaisen, though, until then, fans can look forward to having their hearts broken by Gojo and Geto’s tragic backstory all over again, this time in theaters.

Jujutsu Kaisen: Hidden Inventory / Premature Death – The Movie releases in theaters across North America on July 16, 2025.

Source: Jujutsu Kaisen official website.

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There is a lot to be excited about the upcoming Jujutsu Kaisen Season 3, as the content is just as exciting and action-packed as the previous Shibuya Incident Arc. Furthermore, the arc will be something completely different, creating a shift in the manga’s storytelling structure, and the beginning of some of the series’ most exciting segments. As if the hype and anticipation weren’t sky high, one of the anime’s stars and leads just revealed that the expectations will no doubt be shattered and fans amazed at the final product.

In a new interview hosted on Jujutsu Kaisen’s website with Yuichi Nakamura, the voice actor of Gojo Satoru and other notable characters like Hawks, Bruno Bucciarati, Kuroo Tetsuro, Mumen Rider and more, discussed the upcoming Hidden Inventory compilation. He discussed his most memorable moment, the return of the Juju Sanpo in the movie, and more. In the end, he revealed the passion that went into the movie and how even the future arcs will exceed expectations, which led to fans being very excited about this reveal.

RELATED: Jujutsu Kaisen Hidden Inventory Movie Locks Down U.S. Release Date

The Culling Game Arc Is Going To Be Amazing

Jujutsu Kaisen Season 3 will be focusing on the Culling Games, a beloved yet controversial arc. It is nothing but fights after the overall premise is set up, and with how amazing Mappa and the Jujutsu Kaisen staff have been delivering on the action, the season will no doubt be incredible and could even end up surpassing the first two seasons, which were production masterpieces. Nakamura might not end up participating in the season since Gojo is currently sealed away by Kenjaku, but it depends on where the season ends on.

Nakamura hypes up the idea of more Jujutsu Kaisen movies with the following statement, “This series was created with so much energy and intensity that it would be a waste to leave it confined to just the TV broadcast.” Nakamura expands further, commenting on how special the series already is, hinting that the Culling Game, the next major arc, could be everything we hope it will be: “Ever since I saw the episodes air, I’ve thought, ‘Even if it’s a special screening, I really hope people get to see this in theaters.’ And not just Hidden Inventory / Premature Death, the future storylines coming up are also sure to exceed expectations.” Finally, Nakamura concludes with a not-so-subtle hint for fans to attend the movie when it comes to theaters, “Honestly, I wouldn’t mind if the whole series was just made into movies at this point (laughs). I’m really happy that Hidden Inventory / Premature Death got a theatrical release, and I promise you won’t regret watching it on the big screen. Please go and experience it for yourself.”

The Culling Games is a deadly tournament in Jujutsu Kaisen created by Kenjaku to force evolution in sorcerers. After merging Tengen with humanity, Kenjaku activates the game, trapping players in colonies where they must fight to survive. Participants gain points by killing others, which they can use to add new rules. Yuji Itadori, Megumi Fushiguro, and allies enter the game to save Gojo and stop Kenjaku. As alliances form and betrayals unfold, the group battles powerful cursed users to hopefully win and free their mentor, Gojo Satoru, as the Jujutsu world is being toppled from all sides.

Jujutsu Kaisen season 3’s release date or window might be unknown, but what fans can expect is yet another masterful season that will elevate the source material to greater heights and show fans another great installment. With amazing character moments, fights, and a massive plot twist, the Culling Games arc will be one that cannot be missed as the legendary battle series looks to return to dominate once again.

The post “Sure to Exceed Expectations”: Jujutsu Kaisen Season 3 Star Hints the Anime Could Top Season 2 appeared first on ComicBook.com.

In a new survey in Japan, the best anime and manga healers were revealed by fans, and the results were surprising. This character archetype is one of the most popular and common, not just in anime but in storytelling, and some of the most beloved characters belong to this type. As such, there are some characters that one would expect to show up on this ranking and others that you wouldn’t, which makes the results more surprising given how much it subverses expectations.

In honor of World Red Cross Day (May 8), AnimeAnime.jp held a poll where they asked fans about the best healers in anime. Tallying responses from fans who early responded, the results have been compiled and published on the website as well as on X (formerly Twitter). Akiko Yosano from Bungo Stray Dogs was crowned as anime’s best healer, and given how her power works, it makes sense. A truly unexpected character to take the top spot, the list features many other surprising entries.

RELATED: JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: Ranking The Anime’s Joestars

Akiko Emerges as the Number One Anime Healer

The Armed Detective Agency’s primary physician and one of its strongest combatants as well, Akiko Yosano (based on a real-life writer), has the very rare ability called Thou Shalt Not Die. As the name implies, it can heal any injuries or illness of anyone and herself, as long as the damage is fatal. In essence, her ability only works when the person is half-dead. She has managed to heal all types of injuries, such as severed limbs, and while the ability is portrayed to be painful for the patient, it has never failed once. In fact, she is targeted first because of her incredible ability which can turn the tide of battle instantly.

Other notable characters who appeared on the list include Shoko Ieri from Jujutsu Kaisen, who ranked second, Josuke Higashikata from Jojo’s Bizarre Adventures: Diamond Is Unbreakable, who came in at third, Wendy Marvell from Fairy Tail, Recovery Girl from My Hero Academia, Himawari Uzumaki from Boruto: Two Blue Vortex, and Shinobu Kochō from Demon Slayer. There are some popular healers who deserve to make the list, like Sakura Haruno from Naruto, Orihime Inoue from Bleach, Trafalgar Law from One Piece, and more.

While Akiko is a great choice for first place, despite her incredible ability plus her expert medical knowledge, some entries do not make sense. Himawari is yet to be established as a healer despite the immense healing powers she received from Kurama. The list, overall, is still good as it features some very popular choices like Josuke and Shinobu, and also balances it out with niche picks that deserve a spot like Zenos from A genius healer who was banished as useless despite being able to heal in an instant, now lives happily as a dark healer.

Source: AnimeAnime.jp

The post Japan Crowns Anime’s Best Healer, and the Results Are Not What You Expect appeared first on ComicBook.com.

Jujutsu Kaisen‘s upcoming movie, Jujutsu Kaisen: Hidden Inventory / Premature Death – Theatrical Compilation, is almost here, and fans have been treated to the very exciting news that promises to bring back one of the anime’s most beloved aspects that was unfortunately not present in the second season. There were already a few reasons to see the movie in theatres despite the existence of the anime format that was released nearly two years ago, and this is yet another reason that encourages fans to see another side of the former trio.

The official X (formerly Twitter) account of Jujutsu Kaisen just confirmed that the upcoming Hidden Inventory compilation movie, which is scheduled for May 30th in Japan and July 16th in North America, will receive new original content written and storyboarded by Gege Akutami, the writer and illustrator of the series. The Juju Strolls, or Juju Sanpo, will be making their return in the new movie, although the content of the content is still unknown.

The New Movie’s Juju Strolls Return Will Show a Never-Seen-Before Side of the Trio

As revealed, the new content will revolve around Suguru Geto, Satoru Gojo, and Shoko Ieri. The visual sees them sitting in a movie theatre, and that is all that is known. There exists a Juju Sanpo focusing on the three, where they are instructed to come up with a name for the eighth day of the week, but the still hints that this is not it, but something completely new and not in the manga. Furthermore, this Juju Sanpo has a chibi version of Toji Fushiguro taking a bath, where it is usually Ryomen Sukuna who does so before the mini-anime begins in Season 1.

RELATED: Why Jujutsu Kaisen’s Hidden Inventory Movie Is Worth Seeing on the Big Screen

The Juju Strolls were one of the best aspects of the first season, featuring bonus animations at the end of the episode that adapted Gege’s storyboards of random scenes. It allowed fans to see a different side of the characters that had them bonding, doing random quests, and creating funny moments. From Gojo, Yuji, and Nobara embarrassing Megumi, Hikaru no Go and Neon Genesis Evangelion parody, to Todo meeting his idol, these small bits of the episode were very fun and provided humour in an otherwise serious and fast-paced anime.

Juju Strolls’ Comeback Is Met With Overwhelming Excitement

Unfortunately, the Juju Strolls were not in season 2, and while it did make sense given the content was extremely heavy and dark, fans still missed them. They are finally making a comeback in this upcoming movie, giving fans another reason to see the movies on the big screen. With Jujutsu Kaisen season 3 on the way, fans can only hope more of the Juju Strolls will be incorporated in the series, as there is plenty more that has not been adapted, and hopefully, Gege even creates new ones for the anime just like he is doing now.

The post Jujutsu Kaisen’s Hidden Inventory Movie Confirmed To Include Original Content by Creator appeared first on ComicBook.com.

For those unaware, Jujutsu Kaisen has an upcoming movie that will be released this month, and despite how big the series is, the hype for it doesn’t match it and the reason makes sense. However, the film might still be a worthwhile experience that could enhance the love for the flashback arc that kickstarted the series’ best stretches of arcs and storylines.

In last year’s Jump Festa event, it was confirmed that there would be a theatrical release of the Hidden Inventory/Cursed Womb arc set for next year, as well as a key visual of Yuji sitting on a staircase, hyping up the release of Jujutsu Kaisen season 3. While most people are anxiously waiting for the third installment of the anime, the movie is something that should have more attention, and given all that it provides, fans should check it out once it eventually comes to international theaters.

RELATED: Jujutsu Kaisen Director Surprisingly Influenced This Controversial Manga Scene

Jujutsu Kaisen’s Movie Could Look Even Better

Of course, since it is a movie, there can be an enhancement in the visual fidelity. That isn’t to say the Season 2 version did not look great, quite the contrary, as it looked amazing. However, because the season was gripped with controversies regarding the heavy workload and terrible schedule imposed on animators, the movie could be a step up, given that there is more time now to achieve their same signature standard. Studio Mappa also made the recently released Attack on Titan: Last Attack movie that compiled the final 4 episodes, and fans did note that it looked more beautiful and refined than the episodes, so the same can be reasonably expected for the Hidden Inventory arc movie.

The biggest advantage of seeing the arc in theatres rather than at home is that the theatrical experience is unmatched and will surely enhance the love for the storyline. The huge screens, the loud surround sound system, and watching with other fans are all a great experience. Furthermore, the insane action sequences, such as Gojo vs Toji and Geto vs Toji, will be made even better on the cinema screens.

While the content will overall remain unchanged, this could be a nice way to engage with the story again, especially since there has been no new content ever since the manga ended last year. The iconic duo, Gojo and Geto, will be hitting cinemas soon, and while it will cover already existing content, it might be a fun experience to watch it again but on a much bigger screen and with hopefully some new scenes.

The post Why Jujutsu Kaisen’s Hidden Inventory Movie Is Worth Seeing on the Big Screen appeared first on ComicBook.com.

Since the anime’s release in 2020, Gege Akutami’s hit series Jujutsu Kaisen has all but exploded in popularity, finding a fan base not just in Japan but across the world. Unsurprisingly, the series’ popularity has only grown since then, with the series landing an international box office hit with Jujutsu Kaisen 0 in 2021 and yet another stunning season in 2023. Now with Season 3 on the way, Jujutsu Kaisen is prepping for yet another explosive return to theaters with the Hidden Inventory/Premature Death compilation film, which finally has good news for fans in the U.S.

The wait is finally over, as according to a new press release, GKIDS is bringing Jujutsu Kaisen’s new upcoming film to theaters across the U.S. GKIDS has acquired the rights to JUJUTSU KAISEN: Hidden Inventory / Premature Death – The Movie, which will be screened across North America from July 16th onwards. This marks the first time GKIDS will be distributing a Jujutsu Kaisen release, as Jujutsu Kaisen 0 was previously distributed by Crunchyroll and Funimation. Along with the release date, GKIDS has also shared an English-subbed teaser trailer for the film, as well as an English poster starring Gojo and Geto.

[RELATED: Jujutsu Kaisen Drops New Look at Its Greatest Ship Ahead of Movie Release]

Jujutsu Kaisen Prepares For Explosive Return to US Theaters on July 16th

First announced at Jump Festa 2025, the Hidden Inventory movie is slotted for release in Japanese theaters on May 30th, 2025, with Toho Animation distributing the film in Japan. Ever since the film was announced, international fans have been waiting with bated breath for news of an international release. With the North American release now confirmed, it likely won’t be too long until other countries follow suit.

Though the film is essentially a compilation of the first half of Season 2, re-watching the arc in theaters is sure to be a whole new experience while also giving fans a much-needed refresher before Season 3. Jujutsu Kaisen has also previously had great success with theatrical releases, with Jujutsu Kaisen 0 still sitting cozy at number 20 on the list of the highest-grossing films in Japan with 13.8 billion yen in revenue. It will be interesting to see whether the Hidden Inventory movie could reach the same heights of success or even surpass Jujutsu Kaisen 0, though time will surely tell when July inevitably rolls around.

Source: Official press release.

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Yet another illustration for the upcoming Jujutsu Kaisen movie has been unveiled, and it is possibly the best one so far. With only a few weeks until the premiere of the movie in theatres, this art of Gojo’s most iconic yet is sure to intensify hype for the film of the beloved story arc that will look even more spectacular and majestic on the big screens.

At last year’s Jump Festa event, it was announced that the Jujutsu Kaisen: Hidden Inventory / Premature Death – Theatrical Compilation film will premiere in Japan on May 30th. The official X (formerly Twitter) account of the Jujutsu Kaisen anime shared a new illustration that depicts a roughed-up Gojo Satoru performing the hand sign for his Hollow Purple, his most devastating attack that debuted in the Hidden Inventory arc.

Gojo Looks Incredible In the New Art

Gojo’s Hollow Purple is his most devastating attack among his huge repertoire of techniques, and one only he can perform. It combines his Red that repels and Blue that attracts into a single ball of cursed energy that literally erases anything it touches from existence, and anyone hit by it point-blank will not survive. The first victim of this was in this arc, where he managed to kill Toji Fushiguro in their second bout, debuting this attack after struggling for a long time to combine his Red and Blue.

While the movie will be nothing more than a rerelease of the already-aired arc released in 2023, it still might be worth taking a trip to the cinema. For one, there will be extra cuts for the fights that will make the already-amazing battles even more exciting. Furthermore, the visuals and quality might look even better, plus the sound experience in the theatre will no doubt enhance the overall experience. The content might be the same, but the experience will be much different, and seeing the arc on a large screen.

RELATED: Jujutsu Kaisen Season 3 and Why the Culling Game Changes Everything

Season 3 Will See The Hollow Purple at Its Strongest

Gojo has used the move two times, based on what we have seen on Toji and Hanami. The only reason he didn’t use it in Shibuya was because of the civilian casualties it would lead to, but fans will see it at a higher output than even 100 percent, hopefully in season 3 or 4, when he and Sukuna finally begin their long-awaited fight. The attack quickly became one of anime’s most iconic despite its low usage, and it will surely be even cooler when the move makes its appearance again soon.

The post Jujutsu Kaisen Drops New Look at Gojo’s Best Attack to Hype Movie Release appeared first on ComicBook.com.

Jujutsu Kaisen’s most beloved duo have graced fans with a new appearance, and with only a bit longer until the release of the movie, this should serve as a way to hype up the premiere. This will be the franchise’s second movie, and although fans have already seen most of the content animated 2 years ago, it might be worth it to experience it in theatres for the best possible experience. There also hasn’t been any content of the series since the Jujutsu Kaisen manga ended, so fans might quench their thirst with this until season 3.

Announced in last year’s Jump Festa event, the Jujutsu Kaisen Hidden Inventory / Premature Death – Theatrical Compilation film has been confirmed to premiere on 30th May, 2025. With only a few weeks left until the movie’s release, a new gorgeous illustration of Gojo Satoru and Geto Suguru, the protagonists of the film, has been unveiled. It depicts Gojo sitting on a chair facing forward and smiling, and Geto sitting on the desk and leaning on Gojo’s chair, with both in front of a yellow background. For fans of the two’s friendship/situationship, this will definitely make them happy.

RELATED: Jujutsu Kaisen Season 3 and Why the Culling Game Changes Everything

Gojo and Geto Are Coming to the Big Screen

This movie will be a rerelease of the content that was in the anime’s first half, which covered the Hidden Inventory Arc of the manga. There will be no major additions or changes to the story, but fans can expect better animations and enhancements in production, even though season 2 was a spectacle in animation and visuals. Furthermore, the incredible action sequences and emotionally devastating conflict will be incredible to witness on a large screen and could even prove to be a better experience than watching at home.

The Hidden Inventory Arc is the story’s fifth arc, preceding the Shibuya Incident, which was a major shift in the narrative. It flashed back to Gojo’s teenage years and his life in Jujutsu High, alongside Geto, Shoko, Nanami and others. It also introduced the incredible antagonist, Toji Fushiguro, who almost killed Gojo and Geto, as well as led to the severing of their relationship. Hailed as one of the story’s best arcs, if not the best, the Hidden Inventory is a short but incredibly sweet ride that signalled the story ramping up in pace and quality.

When Will Jujutsu Kaisen Season 3 Air?

While this movie might have some anticipation, the real meal is Jujutsu Kaisen season 3, and fans are obviously anxious for the anime’s return. Fortunately, the season has made a lot of progress and will come sooner rather than later. There is already a gorgeous key visual of Yuji that was released, and more information, such as release window or even a trailer, is likely to be released after the movie is released. With the action-packed and exciting Culling Games on the way, Jujutsu Kaisen will no doubt return to reclaim its throne as the dominating force that it is.

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Jujutsu Kaisen isn’t just another shonen anime; it has reached the level of being a cult favorite. From Gojo’s Six Eyes and Unlimited Void, to all the brutal deaths and insane plot twists, it’s easily one of the most talked-about series in recent years. And now that the manga’s heading into its final phase, the big question is: what’s next? What anime is going to create the same kind of hype?

Most people immediately point to Kagurabachi when they hear this question, and yes, we get it. The art, particularly in action scenes, is incredible, with easy-to-follow storytelling and top-tier paneling, especially in recent chapters. Plus, it became an internet meme sensation right from the start. But if we’re being honest? The true successor to Jujutsu Kaisen might actually be Gachiakuta, and not nearly enough people are talking about it yet.

First, What Even Is Gachiakuta About?

If you’ve never heard of Gachiakuta, don’t worry, you’re not alone. Written and illustrated by Kei Urana, it’s a manga that’s been flying under the radar for a bit (at least, relative to Jujutsu Kaisen). But all of that is about to change. The anime adaptation just got announced, making it one of the most anticipated anime series of Summer 2025. It’s being animated by Studio Bones (Mob Psycho 100 and Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood) under director Fumihiko Suganuma and scriptwriter Hiroshi Seko (Attack on Titan and Jujutsu Kaisen) and fans are excited.

The story is set in a society split between the city, where the civilized live, and the slum, where the descendants of criminals are forced to stay, all separated by high walls. Below them lies the feared “Ground,” a dumpsite ruled by animalistic Trash Beasts where criminals are exiled. Our main character, Rudo, is an orphan from the slum, who makes money through criminal activities until one day, he comes home to find his foster parent, Regto, murdered and himself blamed for it. After being sentenced to the Ground, Rudo swears to get revenge against both the actual killer and the society that wrongfully punished him.

[RELATED – Gachiakuta Anime Reveals First Voice Cast Additions With New Trailer]

But Isn’t Kagurabachi the New Jujutsu Kaisen?

Kagurabachi became an instant hit the moment it dropped, with fans calling it the “next big thing” before Chapter 2 was even released. The manga features impressive illustrations, sharp swordplay, and an easy-to-follow revenge story, making it one of the most satisfying series in the shōnen genre in recent years. As a result, it sold over a million copies in 2024 and even won the Next Manga Award.

The series owes much of its popularity to the protagonist Chihiro Rokuhira, a boy fueled by the desire for revenge, who has already stained his hands with blood more than once. The story is cinematic and intense, clearly pulling inspiration from Naruto, Chainsaw Man, and Western media like Batman and John Wick (which creator Takeru Hokazono openly cites as one of his biggest inspirations). But here’s the thing: while Kagurabachi is well-executed, it plays it kind of safe, lacking the emotional depth and chaotic energy that makes Jujutsu Kaisen so special.

So, Does Gachiakuta Offer That Same JJK Energy?

The reason Jujutsu Kaisen made such an impact wasn’t just sick animation and great fight scenes. It was great worldbuilding with characters you actually care about, all paced perfectly. While Yuji Itadori first seems like your typical sunny shonen protagonist, his role as Sukuna’s vessel allows his story to take a much darker turn down the road. Gachiakuta takes those same feelings of hate and helplessness and turns them up to eleven, with characters who feel broken, angry, and looking desperately for meaning in a world that’s thrown them away.

Like Itadori, Rudo is an orphan who joins a special organization to fight monsters shortly after the death of his parental figure. Except, in this case, the enemies are living beasts made of literal trash, not invisible Curses. Thanks to its memorable characters, rich worldbuilding, a unique power system, and dark themes like abuse, slavery, discrimination, and violence, the manga has totally earned its spot as a top-tier new-gen shonen. Its sketch-heavy art style also helps it stand out, messy in the best way, and unlike the polished look of Kagurabachi or even JJK.

While Gachiakuta hasn’t yet generated the same buzz as Kagurabachi in the manga community, the fans who have discovered it are hyped about the anime in a different way, kind of like that quiet energy that surrounded Attack on Titan before it took off. The fanbase is just waiting for the rest of the world to catch up and see what they already know. And with Studio Bones in charge of the adaptation, it honestly feels like just a matter of time before Gachiakuta inevitably blows up. So if you’re seriously looking for the true successor to Jujutsu Kaisen – the one that delivers those intense fights, dark themes, and insane worldbuilding, mark your calendars for July 2025 to experience Gachiakuta in all its glory as it drops.

The post Jujutsu Kaisen Already Has Its True Successor (And It’s Not Kagurabachi) appeared first on ComicBook.com.

Jujutsu Kaisen and Solo Leveling have each become exceptionally popular anime with audiences particularly adoring how they both handle their fights. One of the most imposing characters in Jujutsu Kaisen, Mahoraga, is a nearly undefeatable and constantly evolving shikigami that exists as the apex of Megumi Fushiguro’s Ten Shadows technique, while Jinwoo is the protagonist of Solo Leveling and the strongest S-ranked hunter as of Season 2. So the real question is, who would win if the S-ranked hunter had to face off against the uncanny shikigami? Both characters have access to insanely powerful techniques and have extraordinary showings, and crucially, are both highly adaptable in their respective anime. Jinwoo recently defeated Beru, a beast in a class of its own, while every other S-ranked hunter involved in the situation paled in comparison. On the opposite end, Mahoraga was shown to be able to go toe-to-toe in one of the best onscreen battles in JJK as he faced off against the King of Curses, Sukuna himself.

Both combatants have amazingly diverse and constantly evolving skill sets to such an extent that a debate could be made that both have almost identical powers. Mahoraga is close to undefeatable and has been shown to only really be able to be put down by a single strike that eradicates the beast. Jinwoo, on the other hand, has shown off his speed and adaptability and has earned an upgraded slashing-based ability. At the end of the day, this hypothetical battle would come down to whether or not Jinwoo could eradicate Mahoraga before the shadow adapted to all of his most deadly abilities.

Eight-Handled Sword Divergent Sila Divine General Mahoraga Would Be a Great Opponent for Jinwoo

Mahoraga is shown and referenced as the ace shikigami among the Zenin clan’s 10 Shadows Technique and has abilities that reflect the pinnacle of Jujutsu Sorcery. The shikigami is summoned with an eight-handled wheel and has the Sword of Extermination on his right arm. The sword itself is a cursed tool exclusive to the shikigami, which is the perfect curse-exterminating weapon. It is coated in reverse cursed energy, which would notably slice through and eradicate beings made of cursed energy. Additionally, the eight-handled wheel is a tool that floats above Mahoraga’s head and rotates as the shikigami adapts to different inputs. The wheel is integral in Mahoraga’s adaptations and is what makes the beast so formidable in combat, as it allows it to become immune and formulate attacks to perfectly strike down any enemy. On top of these two tools, Mahoraga is also a large and powerful imposing figure, shown to be capable of facing off in hand-to-hand combat against the strongest characters in Jujutsu Kaisen.

In dissecting Mahoraga’s battles, we can see that the Divine General adapts at a rapid speed and often, after coming into contact with an ability, will almost immediately have a counter for it. We see that Mahoraga was able to perceive the invisible slashes from Sukuna’s Cleave and Dismantle. In addition to being able to quickly notice the slashes after having been hit once, Mahoraga also begins to become resistant to the slashes, and after a certain level of adaptation, he begins to heal from the previous damage. During his fight with Gojo, Mahoraga takes a substantially longer time adapting to Infinity. However, we realize that Mahoraga is constantly adapting, firstly being able to cancel out Infinity on physical contact, then being able to target the space in which Gojo exists rather than Gojo himself, eventually bypassing Infinity remotely. In both instances, Mahoraga is only able to be defeated when he is destroyed by immensely powerful attacks that were being used for the first time, being the “Fuga” portion of Sukuna’s domain and Gojo’s Hollow Purple.

[RELATED: This Is Solo Leveling’s Best Fight (And It’s Not Against Beru)]

Would the System Be Enough to Protect Jinwoo?

Jinwoo is an undeniable powerhouse, and by the end of Season 2, it has become clear that there are no hunters left in the association that could match him in raw power. His abilities are vast and ever-evolving, as he has the ability to train and level up as if his abilities were stats in a video game. He also has access to a vast inventory of items and weapons, and some of his most impressive and diverse abilities fall under the Shadow army he controls. As Jinwoo grows throughout the series, so does his army. He ends up with a handful of incredibly powerful and versatile summons after having defeated them. His army is full of formidable fighters, and he is more than competent in combat, able to perform assassination techniques on those weaker than himself, and able to compete with the likes of Beru during the Jeju Island Raid.

During Season 2, we got some of Jinwoo’s best combat feats, specifically his fight against the Demon King and Beru. The fight with the Demon King is part of what aided Jinwoo in developing his army further and acquiring the Holy Water of Life but it was one of the few battles where the audience sees Jinwoo struggle. This is the first instance of a fight in which Jinwoo struggles to finish the fight in a single shot due to the foe’s durability. After this showdown, we get to see Jinwoo fight Beru as the final fight of the season, where Jinwoo shows that he is leagues above the other S-ranked heroes involved. During this fight, he unlocked the mutilate ability, which is a dagger-based slashing ability that guarantees critical hits. With this ability, he can finally defeat Beru by drowning the ant in critical slashes.

The Hypothetical Showdown Would Be a Showstopper

The meat of this conversation comes down to whether or not Jinwoo, as of Season 2, can defeat Mahoraga before the shikigami fully adapts to his skillset and lands a finishing blow. A point leaning towards Jinwoo would be his absolute kit of abilities, including intense speed, strength, and his myriad of magical powers within his shadow army. At the end of Season 2, most of the army would most likely not pack enough punch to destroy Mahoraga before he could adapt to their simple slashes, punches, and magic. This means that the fight would boil down to Mahhoraga facing off against Jinwoo, Igris, and Beru.

All of these characters have potent attack strength and could deal considerable damage to the shikigami. However, their weakness begins to shine with the realization that all three of them lack attacks with the potency to destroy Mahoraga in one attack. A debate can be made that Beru’s outright striking strength is enough to destroy the shikigami, but we have seen Mahoraga tank direct attacks from a black flash amped Gojo, so it is a definite toss-up on whether or not a simple strike will ever be damaging enough to fell the beast.

Mahoraga would also struggle early on in this battle as he would have to take time to adapt to all of Jinwoo’s defenses before being able to fully defeat the hunter. On top of all of this, the straight-up showdown between the two would show that there is no genuine damage that Jinwoo can do fast enough to destroy Mahoraga. Jinwoo’s final attack, which acted as the nail in the coffin for Beru, was his Mutilation, which, for all intents and purposes, is incredibly similar to Sukuna’s Cleave and Dismantle, which Mahoraga was able to adapt to rapidly during their fight. Given both combatants’ ability to evolve during the fight, it would undoubtedly be interesting and entertaining, but by the end of Season 2, Jinwoo still simply does not have enough power to outright destroy the ace of the Ten Shadows before it could adapt to anything he might throw at it.

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Following the overwhelming success of Season 2 of Jujutsu Kaisen and the action-packed Shibuya Arc, MAPPA surprised fans with not only immediate confirmation of Season 3 but also a compilation movie of the Hidden Inventory Arc. Also known as the Gojo’s Part Arc, as the name implies, the arc dives into a side of Gojo that fans had never seen before, adding much-needed context to his character and his relationship with Geto, which plays a major role in the Shibuya Arc. The omnibus film is quickly approaching its release date, and in celebration, fans just got a new look at Gojo and Geto in the throes of youth.

As per a recent listing on Amazon Japan, a new illustration of young Gojo and Geto will be on the cover of Animage Magazine’s June 2025 issue. The cover features the tragic duo smiling brightly while riding a bike, with Gojo featured in his round sunglasses holding a bottle of water. The issue goes on sale on May 10th, and though the cover doesn’t explicitly mention an interview of any sort included, time will tell whether the magazine has any other goodies in store for Jujutsu Kaisen fans.

[RELATED: New Jujutsu Kaisen Movie Drops First Trailer: Watch]

Jujutsu Kaisen‘s Gojo and Geto Grace the Cover of Animage Yet Again

Interestingly enough, this isn’t the first time Gojo and Geto have been featured on the cover of Animage. The stracrossed duo also graced the cover of Animage Magazine back in July 2023 and have also been featured on Newtype Magazine’s September 2023 issue and the cover of Nikkei Entertainment’s August 2023 issue along with Riko Amanai. That said, given the upcoming release of the Hidden Inventory movie, the recent feature on Animage could not have been better timed to hype the release even further.

Talking about the release itself, the Hidden Inventory/Premature Death Arc compilation movie was first announced at Jump Festa 2025, and is expected to hit theaters across Japan on May 30th, 2025. Though a global release has yet to be officially announced, given the success of Jujutsu Kaisen 0, it’s very possible that the film will make its way to international fans soon enough.

All that said, for now, fans need to prepare themselves to have their hearts broken all over again by Gojo and Geto’s tragic backstory. Though essentially a prelude to the Shibuya Arc, the Hidden Inventory arc completely recontextualizes the events of Jujustu Kaisen 0 and is crucial to understanding Gojo’s character going into future arcs of Jujutsu Kaisen, and the compilation film may just be the perfect refresher until Season 3 arrives.

Source: Amazon Japan.

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Jujutsu Kaisen is one of the most popular battle shonen manga and anime series in recent times. The manga ended in September 2024, but its popularity hasn’t diminished at all. The volumes are still selling like hotcakes, with more people getting interested in the show than ever. Furthermore, JJK Season 3 is one of the most anticipated returns in the anime medium. Season 3 will adapt the Yuji’s Extermination and Perfect Preparation Arcs before moving on to the Culling Game Arc. The first two arcs feature the aftermath of the Shibuya Incident, the biggest tragedy faced by Japan due to curses. The Disaster Curses and even Sukuna went on a rampage, claiming thousands of lives.

Unfortunately, the Jujutsu world never recovered from it. What followed was constant battles against new and powerful opponents before moving on to the Shinjuku Showdown Arc. The final arc itself is entirely centered around battles, which captured the very essence of the show. However, the more popular the series is, the more complaints fans will have about it. The series is praised for its complex power system and intense fights, but sometimes fans have loftier expectations from a show. Most of the time, the expectations can be quite unreasonable, but fans weren’t wrong when they asked for more character interactions, which is a fair request.

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Jujutsu Kaisen’s Characters Don’t Interact as Much as They Should

Since Jujutsu Kaisen is mostly about fights, we don’t see character interactions that much. This is especially the case since the Shibuya Incident Arc when the sorcerers are merely focused on taking down the enemy without any kind of breather between the intensity of the show. The early Jujutsu Kaisen arcs had a lot of fun and cute moments, which made fans fall in love with the show. The series builds an impressively strong foundation for its characters, with most of them having really unique personalities and philosophies.

But because the plot moves at such a relentless pace, we miss out on the chance to see them build their relationships normally. As the stakes got higher, we only got to see crumbs of interactions between the fights, which weren’t even enough. Not only that, but the final arc, which lasted for over a year, only had characters talking about battle strategies in the middle of the fight or in the flashbacks. Character interactions are more important than most people realize. While shonen fans love the thrill of the fight, it’s also equally fun to see characters genuinely connect as they joke, argue, and confide in each other. In fact, this could engage the readers more, and even enhance the stakes for them when the fights resume.

It’s easier that way to see them as people, not just “fighters” or “plot devices.” There needs to be several meaningful connections before we understand the depth of what makes them attached to one another. For example, it’s difficult to imagine the depth of brotherhood between Choso and Yuji when the latter had a difficult time accepting him initially. But somewhere along the way, the brothers grew closer. Unfortunately, we missed how the duo’s relationship evolved.

Jujutsu Kaisen Characters Didn’t React to Tragedy as Much as We Expected

Character deaths aren’t only to showcase the strength of the villains, but they also add emotional depth to the show. In most of the series, having characters react to those tragedies makes us feel more connected to the ones suffering. For example, in One Piece, Ace wasn’t a major character in quite the same way as Luffy’s crew members, but his death was heartwrenching because of how it broke Luffy, due largely to their sworn and storied brotherhood. We see the protagonist fall into despair and slowly get back to his feet, honoring his brother’s memory as he becomes stronger for the sake of his crew.

However, Gojo’s death should’ve been one of the most tragic moments in Jujutsu Kaisen, but it failed to hit the mark because the characters didn’t react strongly to his death. Sometimes it’s okay to let the characters cry or despair, even when they’re in the middle of a battle. The thrill of the battle is great, but showing emotions is part of being human, and they had every right to show their sadness. After all, they were there to give Gojo support before the battle, so it’s not like they were heartless enough to not care about him when he died.

Even after his death, only Yuji honored his memory, while the others moved on with their lives without showing a hint of emotion. Worst of all, Megumi had known Gojo since his childhood. Sukuna taking over his body and killing Tsumiki and Gojo should’ve taken a toll on the young sorcerer. However, while we do see Megumi feeling guilty because of his sister, it is as if Gojo’s death didn’t affect him that much. While that may not be the case, the lack of reaction from his end just feels plain. In comparison, Yuji and Yuta seemed to be more attached to their Sensei when they actually knew him for a very short time.

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The battle of the strongest is the most popular fight in Jujutsu Kaisen, and is even considered one of the best battles in modern Shonen. Gojo, the strongest sorcerer in the modern era, duels against Sukuna, the strongest sorcerer in history. Fans were waiting to witness those two clash against each other since the beginning of the story. Hence, as soon as Gojo is released from the Prison Realm, he gets challenged by the King of Curses. Gojo chooses the date and location of the fight, and it commences in the Final Arc. The fight continues for 15 chapters, and before Gojo died in Chapter 236.

However, Gojo was declared the victor in Chapter 235, but the next chapter begins with his death, confusing the fandom with the sudden plot twist. Not only that, but Gojo dying off-screen only caused more confusion among fans, with most of the questions never being answered in the manga. However, creator Gege Akutami finally sheds light on what exactly went wrong before Gojo’s death. His answer also settles the debate fans had about the fight for several months.

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Jujutsu Kaisen Creator Explains Why Gojo Lost Against Sukuna

Osaka, Japan, is currently holding a Jujutsu Kaisen Exhibition that features Q&A including answers to some truly burning fan questions, provided by Gege Akutami. One of the questions asks when Sukuna made a Binding Vow to cut down Gojo.

Gege answered, “Sometime after, Kusakabe said he won. The reason he was cut down was also bc he had let his guard down after destroying Mahoraga. By this point, Gojo thought Sukuna no longer had a way to bypass Limitless. Perhaps Gojo, under normal circumstances, would’ve been able to sense it and narrowly avoid fatality.”

Since the Exhibition is only being held in Japan and there’s no official translation provided to global fans, @lightningclare discussed the Q&A on X. Lightning is a famous translator on social media, known for providing clarifications about any confusion or mistranslation related to the series. Additionally, Chapter 236 was also officially translated by Lightning when John Werry, the series’ translator, was on leave.

The answer Gege provided confirmed that Gojo only lost because he let down his guard. He has been fighting the King of Curses without holding back for much too long, and his last attack exhausted almost all his cursed energy. To make matters worse, Gojo was suffering brain hemorrhage after using the Reverse Cursed Technique several times. If it had been any other time, he would’ve been able to avoid the World Cutting Slash, which is practically undetectable even to his Six Eyes.

Regardless of the outcome of the battle, both sides were pushed to the extreme, with the villain gaining the upper hand thanks to a surprise attack when he was on his last leg. Despite reincarnating in his original form, Sukuna kept suffering the consequences of his fight with Gojo, including being unable to use RCT for a long time. This helped the sorcerers defeat him in a long and difficult fight.

H/T: @lightningclare on X

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Cursed Energy, Cursed Techniques, and Domain Techniques are the cornerstones of Jujutsu society in the world of Jujutsu Kaisen and are the base of the power system present throughout the series. Given that our protagonists are a majority of students still learning the basics, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that they lack a lot of knowledge on the cursed energy system. However, even a majority of the adult characters and teachers lack a full understanding of the inner workings of the power system at hand, which eventually becomes a hurdle they must all face together. The villains, on the other hand, are often referenced as curses themselves, and as such, they intimately understand their roots within the power systems.

Our protagonist, Yuji Itadori, has a pretty clear excuse for his lack of knowledge: he is a first-year student with no previous knowledge of the jujutsu world. Megumi and Nobara also lack in the area, but less from their exposure to the world and more because of the way they view themselves within the world. These features are quickly demonstrated when the three students are outclassed in a battle against a special grade curse, and Yuji has to resort to relinquishing his body to the villainous Sukuna to secure a victory. Sukuna and Kenjaku both show off an unmatched prowess with sorcery and are a cut above the rest of the characters, understanding the core of their craft and managing to pull off techniques our main cast hadn’t dreamt of creating.

Warning: Spoilers Ahead for the Jujutsu Kaisen Manga!

The Basics of Cursed Energy

Cursed Energy is the runoff of natural energy that leaks out of humans and becomes what are known as curses. As cursed energy is the runoff of negative energy from humans, it is quickly made clear within the series that sorcerers can attain closeness to this energy when in dire situations. Characters have multiple instances of attaining a new level of power as they are pushed closer and closer to the peak of their capabilities. Gojo, who is considered the strongest sorcerer of the current era, is, on more than one occasion, put in positions where he needs to grow his understanding of cursed energy and sorcery or face defeat. When put into these positions, the modern-day sorcerers often find an out by leveling up their understanding of the power system.

Examples of the fundamentals of cursed energy that our protagonists struggle with are the basic implementation of it in combat, as seen when Yuji Itadori struggles to have his energy keep up with his physical capabilities, causing a lagging style attack referred to as divergent fist. We also see that Megumi Fushiguro struggles with his barrier techniques, which eventually causes him to create an incomplete domain expansion while fighting a finger-bearing curse. Nobara similarly struggles with more advanced techniques; however, she has an intimate understanding of the resonance between cursed energies and can damage the soul, which leads to her experiencing a moment of closeness with cursed energy through hitting a black flash on the cursed spirit, Mahito. All of these moments highlight that the students had a lot of room to grow, but also that they will only grow in their skills through stress and combat.

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The Villains in Jujutsu Kaisen Master Its Power System to Points Beyond Comprehension

As previously mentioned, the antagonists of the series are shown to have a far deeper understanding of the power system and demonstrate their superiority frequently. A specific instance where we as fans understand the depth of Sukuna’s power is when he removes Yuji’s heart from his body while in control within the Eishu Detention Center. This moment left fans and characters like Megumi unsure of how Sukuna could perform feats that mirror genuine miracles compared to what we had seen. This heartless moment is expanded upon later on in the series during the Shinjuku Showdown when Sukuna is pierced in the heart by Maki Zenin, and he manually pumps his blood with cursed energy. The ability to manually use cursed energy to power your body is a feat we only see Sukuna perform throughout the series.

Kenjaku, the mastermind behind the majority of the ongoings within the Jujutsu Kaisen series, was eventually revealed to have a full understanding of cursed techniques and souls to such an extent that he was able to aid characters like Sukuna and other revived sorcerers in becoming cursed items to later be revived through vessels. This ability is one that, even as the end of the series came and went, the protagonists had no real concept of how this was done. The only character we saw replicate this ability was Sukuna himself after having seen Kenjaku do it once before. Speaking of Sukuna’s capabilities again, it is easy to see just how much higher he stands compared to the other sorcerers in the series.

The Pinnacle of Sorcery

Sitting atop all other cursed techniques and abilities as the ability that separates sorcerers is the Domain Expansion. This specific technique is often referenced as the thing that separates exceptional sorcerers from your everyday sorcerers. Many of our protagonists would achieve a Domain Expansion during the series, however, there were only three who showed true mastery of their barrier technique, and of those three, only two were able to perform something truly unmatched. Sukuna and Kenjaku both managed to activate their Domain Expansions with open barriers, meaning they applied their innate techniques to the space within their open domains. Though this may seem confusing, the narrative goes on to explain that opening a Domain Expansion with an open barrier is like painting on air instead of painting on a canvas. Not only is Sukuna able to have an open Domain, but he is also able to change his Domain specifications on the fly when having Domain clashes with Gojo. Do to his time in the Prison Realm, Gojo can shrink and manipulate the barrier of his Domain to give him the advantage against Sukuna in a Domain clash. During the very same chain of clashes where Gojo adapted on the fly, Sukuna was shown to be able to match the adaptations per clash.

There is one final feat that Sukuna can pull off, which we get to see as his last-ditch effort in his fight against all of the remaining students. Sukuna had continued to take sustained damage and had his output reduced by Yuji and the remaining students, and he still had not regained the use of his Domain Expansion because of the aftermath of his fight with Gojo. In response to being backed into a corner and faced with the very real possibility of defeat, Sukuna once again demonstrated his mastery over sorcery and forged a new Domain Expansion using a different portion of his brain and different hand seals to revive his once tired-out Domain. Every ounce of evidence in Jujutsu Kaisen points towards one fact, and it is that the students do not fully grasp the power system in which they exist. This is, however, not the student’s fault as one, they are at Jujutsu High to learn and two, the sorcerers they face who truly understood sorcery were forged by constant battles and long lives where they must learn to live by their ideals and techniques or die.

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