Jujutsu Kaisen: Anticipating the Epic Sukuna vs Mahoraga Battle on the Big Screen

With the Shibuya Incident having so many game-changing moments, it's tough to choose just a few episodes to highlight the season's strengths. Even though there may be some great scenes left out, Jujutsu Kaisen's upcoming short theatrical event isn't focused on what's missing. Instead, it's all about the new additions, and that's what sets it apart.

Starting on March 29, for one week, 30 theaters across Japan will be showing four episodes from the series. These episodes include "Thunderclap, Part 2" and all three parts of "Right and Wrong" (Episodes 41-44). The main attraction of this screening is the first episode, which will feature extra scenes and fixes to address any unfinished details from the TV broadcast.

An Unfinished Masterpiece?

jujutsu-kaisen-41-sukuna-attack - An Unfinished Masterpiece?

Opinions on Episode 41 remain divided. Previously, we appreciated the ambitious visuals but criticized the uneven presentation and lack of clarity. The episode focuses on the intense battle between the series antagonist, Ryomen Sukuna, and Mahoraga, a powerful shikigami initially summoned by Megumi Fushiguro to defeat an enemy curse user. This risky move could have cost Megumi his life if Sukuna had not intervened.

With Megumi's survival crucial for Sukuna's mysterious plans, a fierce battle ensues between Sukuna and the formidable shikigami to protect one of the main characters. This confrontation results in extensive destruction, a high body count, and marks the peak of the Shibuya Incident. Unfortunately, the episode ends abruptly without a conclusion.

Just a Glimpse of the Big Picture

There are many things to enjoy about "Thunderclap, Part 2," such as the nods to other popular shōnen series, the epic scale of the battle, and the fantastic music. However, it's much easier to appreciate these aspects when the visuals are clear and easy to follow. Even fans of this episode have to admit that it lacks clarity at times, with unfinished cuts and awkward scene transitions making it more confusing than captivating.

Animator Roccia Nobili recently shared that the episode was only "30% of the intended vision." However, it's important to note that the post was deleted because fans were placing too much emphasis on the number. Nobili clarified in a follow-up that the percentage of completion wasn't the main focus. What mattered more was how satisfied the artists were with achieving their vision, and the animators' comments indicate a resounding "no."

Twitter article posted by RocciaNobili

How This Episode Can Meet Its Potential

jujutsu-kaisen-41-mahoraga-sukuna - How This Episode Can Meet Its Potential

Fans were eagerly anticipating the Blu-ray release of Episode 41, expecting an improved version. Home video releases are known to offer the most complete versions of anime episodes, with corrected cuts and enhanced visuals. The removal of ghosting and dimming that can obscure a good scene is also common. People were curious to see how much the BD release would enhance the original episode.

The decision to screen the episode in theaters indicates that there are significant differences. Although it's not uncommon for TV episodes to be compiled and shown in theaters, it's worth noting that Demon Slayer has done this before to generate excitement for a new season. In contrast, Jujutsu Kaisen's third season is still a while away, and these four episodes are not even the conclusion of Season 2.

Why This Screening Is Special

However, the revamped version of "Thunderclap, Part 2" makes the ticket price worthwhile. It's important to manage expectations about the number of improvements, but even small changes can make a big difference. Not only is there a need to fix existing issues, but there are also scenes that were never included or were significantly shortened.

Twitter article posted by Chansard Vincent

Animator Vincent Chansard initially agreed to work on the episode as a gesture of respect towards its director, Hakuyu Go, who he admires for his talent. Despite his previous decision to not collaborate with Studio MAPPA again, he found himself creating some of the most breathtaking animation in the entire episode. Interestingly, there are even more impressive scenes that did not make it to the final TV version.

Twitter article posted by Cel

It Deserves To Be Screened Overseas

jujutsu-kaisen-41-megumi - It Deserves To Be Screened Overseas

At the time of writing, there hasn't been any announcement about bringing this screening overseas. The chances seem slim, but it's a surefire hit. Personally, including Episode 40 would make it perfect, but these four episodes alone capture the essence of this arc at its best. It starts off strong, unfolds heartbreaking events, and ends with a ray of hope.

Fans who enjoyed Episode 41 are eager to see it on the big screen, while critics may be interested in a cleaner, more polished version. Crunchyroll has a history of bringing such edits to theaters, including Demon Slayer in North America.

Although some may not see the value in a screening of these four episodes, the thrill of experiencing a complete version of Episode 41 cannot be underestimated. Season 2 was a success, and the hard work of the animators deserves to be fully appreciated, or as close to their original vision as possible.

Source: Comic Natalie

Editor's P/S:

The upcoming Jujutsu Kaisen theatrical event promises to showcase the highly anticipated revamped version of Episode 41, "Thunderclap, Part 2." The original episode garnered mixed reviews due to its lack of clarity and incomplete animation. However, the screening event will feature extra scenes, fixes, and enhanced visuals, addressing the issues that plagued the TV broadcast. Fans eager for a more satisfying conclusion to the intense battle between Sukuna and Mahoraga are sure to appreciate this opportunity to witness the episode in its intended glory.

The screening also highlights the dedication and passion of the animators involved in the series. The inclusion of previously unseen scenes and improvements demonstrates their commitment to delivering the best possible experience for fans. It is a testament to the high quality and popularity of Jujutsu Kaisen that its creators are willing to go the extra mile to ensure that the audience gets to enjoy the full potential of the episode.