JAPAN: Based on Gege Akutami’s manga, the Jujutsu Kaisen series is becoming another popular anime feature for Shonen Jump upon its debut. The prequel offers more to satisfy the appetites of both Jujutsu Kaisen fans and the anime community.
Jujutsu Kaisen 0: The Movie is a prequel to the events of the anime series produced and distributed by the behemoths of the anime industry, MAPPA and Toho. Jujutsu Kaisen 0 follows the narrative of Yuta Okkotsu, who wields a grasp over a mighty, cursed spirit that lands him in Jujutsu High. This embarks Yuta on his quest to master his power with the aid of the strong sorcerers in his immediate vicinity.
Jujutsu Kaisen anime series chronicles the life of Yuji Itadori and takes him on a supernatural joyride with his quest to find and consume all the fingers of the powerful Curse Ryomen Sukuna. Essentially pursuing a Shonen genre “zero-to-hero” path, the anime feature introduces several new characters and some well-known ones, including Satoru Gojo, the beating heart of Jujutsu Kaisen fandom.
MAPPA adds the limelight to Sunghoo Park’s brilliant execution of storytelling
Since the plot is clearly laid out for every moviegoer, Sunghoo Park’s direction enhances this anime film in a way that enables it to be enjoyed by both anime and non-anime viewers. Simple and entertaining, the plot’s premise readily provides the audience with all the essential expertise about curses and jujutsu.
Great voice acting. I’m referring to what to anticipate from such a stellar ensemble for an anime movie. The custom of having a lead voice cast that is predominantly female is masterfully upheld via Megumi Ogata as Yuta Okkotsu. As usual, Yuichi Nakamura perfectly complements Satoru Gojo’s energizing voice. Kana Hanazawa’s performance as Rika Orimoto epitomizes complexity considering she has the most intricate voice acting of any character. As Suguru Geto, Takahiro Sakurai’s ominous voice permeates the space. The plot is accompanied by calming voices featuring Tomokazu Seki as Panda, Koki Uchiyama as Toge Inumaki, and Mikako Komatsu as Maki Zen’in.
It is no surprise that MAPPA is considered the behemoth of the anime business, given the visual extravaganza that the studio unleashes in its action sequences. Although the story starts with a sluggish and necessary tempo of emotions, this lets the viewer get comfortable with the level. It gives the audience a few minutes to get used to it before showering them with action sequences that demonstrate the expertise of the anime behemoth.
The premise features Gojo, and based on the character’s fame, it’s easy to envision him undercutting the main character, but the film executes everything wonderfully. Ample time and sequencing are given to Yuta to flourish. His pleasant and upbeat persona makes it simple for the audience to connect with him. The action sequence in the climax sends a goosebump joyride through our bodies. In addition to Yuta, Maki, Toge, and Panda each have a chance to stand out during the decisive battle.
The BGM is flawless but falls short of the quality of the anime series. The movie’s opening song, Greatest Strength by Hiroaki Tsutsumi, Toft Willingham, Chez, and Hiroaki Tsutsumi, effectively establishes the anime theme. It is the only song you will undoubtedly add to your playlist.
The movie occasionally chooses a quick pace that can feel pretty tedious, but it is easily avoidable. More importantly, wait for the post-credit scene at the conclusion.
Verdict:
Jujutsu Kaisen 0 pulls on every strand of the anime series while maintaining its charm that adds a joyride of literal goosebumps, serving as a must-watch for every anime enthusiast.
Transcontinental Times rating: 4/5
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