Genre: Anime, Magic, Dark fantasy
Season: 1
Episodes: 37
Director: Gege Akutami
Studio:Shueisha
Original Airtime: March 5, 2018 – present
Plot:
Set against the backdrop of a world teeming with curses born from human malice and fear, “Jujutsu Kaisen” introduces us to Yuji Itadori. After inadvertently consuming a cursed object – one of the rotting fingers of Sukuna, an ancient and powerful curse – he finds himself thrust into the perilous realm of Jujutsu sorcerers.
Storyline: 7/10
The narrative of “Jujutsu Kaisen” is beautifully layered and intricately woven. At its core, it’s a battle-focused shonen, yet it distinguishes itself with the inclusion of dark horror elements and psychological undertones. As Yuji endeavors to locate and consume all of Sukuna’s fingers to eliminate the threat and regain his normal life, viewers are treated to a multitude of arcs. These range from school events to intense, high-stakes battles against malevolent curses. Alongside these physical confrontations, the series dives deep into the philosophies of life, the inevitability of death, and the sacrifices one makes in the face of destiny. The juxtaposition of school life against the grim reality of their battles adds depth and provides moments of levity, making the story multidimensional.
Characters: 7/10
Yuji Itador
The heart and soul of the series, known for his formidable physical strength and compassionate nature.
Megumi Fushiguro
Calm and introspective, he recognizes Yuji's potential early on, becoming both friend and protector.
Nobara Kugisaki
Fiercely independent and never one to shy from expressing her opinions, she completes the central trio with her unique abilities and perspectives.
Satoru Gojo
The enigmatic powerhouse of the Jujutsu world, he mentors Yuji and challenges the conventions of the sorcery society.
Art and Animation: 8/10
With MAPPA at the helm, “Jujutsu Kaisen” is a visual spectacle. Each frame feels meticulously crafted, showcasing the studio’s commitment to bringing Gege Akutami’s manga to life in full animated glory. The color palette, though often leaning towards darker shades reflecting the grim nature of their battles, is punctuated with bursts of vivid hues during moments of heightened emotion or action. The fight sequences deserve special mention. They are not merely battles but beautifully choreographed dance-like sequences, seamlessly blending traditional animation with modern CGI techniques. Close-up shots are detailed, giving characters depth and realness, while the backgrounds are expansive, creating a world that feels both vast and intimate.
Music: 8/10
The series’ auditory experience is as rich as its visual. The background scores, composed by Hiroaki Tsutsumi, Yoshimasa Terui, and Arisa Okehazama, offer a perfect blend of haunting melodies and adrenaline-pumping tracks. They underline the tension, drama, and occasional light-hearted moments, thus enhancing the overall viewing experience. The opening theme, “KAIKAI KITAN” by Eve, captures the spirit of the anime – a mix of melancholy and determination. The ending theme, “LOST IN PARADISE” by ALI ft. AKLO, with its distinct rhythm and style, has garnered widespread appreciation for its catchy beat and unique animation.
Final Thoughts:
“Jujutsu Kaisen” is more than just another entry in the battle shonen genre. It’s a masterful blend of storytelling, character development, art, and music. Its ability to resonate on both superficial and profound levels ensures its appeal to both casual viewers and hardcore anime enthusiasts.
