Jujutsu Kaisen (JJK) has rapidly become a global sensation, captivating anime fans with its thrilling storyline, dynamic characters, and breathtaking animation. Based on the manga by Gege Akutami, the anime adaptation, produced by MAPPA Studios, first aired in October 2020. Although the manga debuted in 2017, it was the anime’s release that truly propelled JJK into the mainstream, drawing comparisons to legendary shōnen series like Naruto and Bleach. Akutami has even cited Bleach as a major inspiration for JJK.
Plot Overview
The story revolves around Yuji Itadori, a strong yet endearingly clumsy high school student who inadvertently enters the world of sorcery—also known as jujutsu—after his school is attacked by malevolent spirits. This attack is triggered by the discovery of a powerful cursed object. During the chaos, Yuji meets Megumi Fushiguro, a skilled sorcerer from Jujutsu Tech, who is on a mission to retrieve the cursed object and exorcise the spirits.
In a desperate bid to protect his friends, Yuji makes the reckless decision to swallow the object—revealed to be a fragment of Sukuna, one of the most feared cursed spirits in history. This act results in Yuji becoming Sukuna’s vessel, setting off a chain of events that changes his life forever. He is soon taken under the wing of Gojo Satoru, a charismatic and immensely powerful sorcerer, and joins Jujutsu Tech, where he teams up with Megumi and the bold, headstrong Nobara Kugisaki.
A Fresh Take on the Shōnen Formula
Jujutsu Kaisen initially follows familiar shōnen tropes, with its team dynamics reminiscent of Naruto’s Team 7. However, it quickly establishes its uniqueness in several ways:
| Key Aspect | Traditional Shōnen | Jujutsu Kaisen’s Approach |
|---|---|---|
| Character Wins | Protagonists often triumph | Main characters experience real losses |
| Villain Dynamics | Villains may show redemption | Sukuna remains purely malevolent |
| Female Characters | Often secondary or sidelined | Strong, independent, and well-developed |
| Story Arcs | Can be lengthy and drawn out | Concise, engaging, and well-paced |
JJK stands out by subverting expectations. Unlike many shōnen series where antagonists possess redeeming qualities, Sukuna remains unapologetically evil with his own sinister motives. Additionally, the series is notably self-aware, particularly in its portrayal of female characters. Historically, shōnen anime have prioritised male protagonists, often relegating female characters to supporting roles or comic relief. In contrast, JJK presents strong, competent, and independent female characters who are integral to the plot rather than mere tools to enhance the male protagonists’ heroism.
Animation, Soundtrack, and Cultural Impact
One of the most striking aspects of Jujutsu Kaisen is its stunning animation, courtesy of MAPPA Studios. The fluidity of the action sequences, intricate fight choreography, and the vivid depiction of cursed energy make every battle visually exhilarating. The anime also boasts an outstanding soundtrack, blending intense battle themes with emotional, haunting melodies.
JJK has also made a significant cultural impact, with pop culture references cleverly woven into its dialogues, adding to its relatability and charm. The series avoids unnecessary filler, ensuring that every episode contributes meaningfully to the overarching narrative.