Jujutsu Kaisen Fans Rally Behind Controversial Anime-Exclusive Moment
Jujutsu Kaisen Season 2 sparks controversy with anime-only scenes, garnering mixed reactions from fans An animator takes center stage amidst the debate, receiving both support and criticism for their divisive contribution
Fans of Jujutsu Kaisen have rallied support for one of the animators involved in Season 2, amidst controversy. The recent episode showcases Aoi Todo aiding Yuji in his battle against arch nemesis Mahito, who inflicts a serious injury on Yuji’s friend Nobara, causing him to lose all hope.
He decides to give up the fight against Mahito, believing that death would be a better alternative. But just in time, Aoi Todo comes to the rescue of his trusted friend, whom he affectionately refers to as a brother. Aoi plays the part of both a comrade and a friend in Yuji's life.
Despite his remarkable talent and intelligence, Aoi is undeniably an eccentric character. In times of desperation, he looks to his idol, Takada-chan, for inspiration. One of the animators, however, added a scene not included in the Jujutsu Kaisen manga for the new episode of the anime.
Jujutsu Kaisen fans thank animator for divisive anime-only scene
Crunchyroll
In the specific scene, Aoi Todo envisions himself cross-dressing as a result of his broken locket, containing pictures of Yuji and Takada. The anime accompanies this moment with a pop song that gives Aoi the courage to keep fighting. In his imagination, Aoi sees Takada, his idol, supporting him from behind and showing him which moves to use against Mahito. He even imagines himself wearing the same outfit as Takada, all against a glittery pink background with the motivational pop song still playing.
Despite the seriousness of their situation, the scene is comically depicted as Yuji and Aoi struggle for survival. In the manga, only Aoi's broken necklace is shown, but he had already lost his hand and innate technique by then.
In an anime-exclusive addition, Aoi envisions himself fighting with both hands, only to face the harsh truth that one hand is already burned and the other is lost. Animator HoneHone is credited with the creative and skillful execution of this idea.
The cross-dressing scene received mixed reactions from fans in Arab countries, with some criticizing it and others expressing support for the animator's work. HoneHone, a longtime member of the JJK staff, received encouragement from dedicated fans in response to the backlash. One fan expressed their support, stating, "What you did was wonderful, and I support you because I liked it. I wish you success in your life and your job." This message was accompanied by a heart emoticon and a still of Aoi and Takada-chan.
Another fan wrote: "It's disheartening to see so many people harassing HoneHone for his take on the Todo scene. Unfortunately, civility and normalcy seem to be out of reach for many here. Sometimes it's best to keep our opinions to ourselves."
A third user commented: "The controversy over the Todo scene in JJK is ridiculous. As a Muslim, I don't support crossdressing either, but the harassment of HoneHone is completely uncalled for."
Another user remarked, "That scene was definitely one of the highlights of the season. I couldn't help but smile the entire time I was watching it. It was so uplifting." Here's a closer look at the scene, which provided a delightful dose of unexpected humor in the midst of all the gloomy moments.
So unserious pic.twitter.com/K5fi8nyf3d
— Pew (رضوان) (@pewpiece) December 14, 2023
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Editor's P/S
As a huge fan of Jujutsu Kaisen, I am thrilled to see the anime adaptation continue to deliver high-quality content. The recent controversy surrounding the anime-exclusive scene in Season 2 has sparked mixed reactions, but I believe that the animator, HoneHone, should be commended for their creative and skillful execution. The scene, while comedic in nature, still manages to capture the intensity and desperation of the situation, providing a unique and memorable moment in the series.
I understand that some fans may find the cross-dressing scene to be inappropriate or offensive, but I believe that it is important to appreciate the artistic intent behind it. The scene is not meant to promote or endorse cross-dressing, but rather to provide a lighthearted and humorous moment amidst the dark and serious tone of the series. It is also worth noting that the scene is not explicitly sexual in nature, and is therefore not harmful or offensive in any way.
