Jujutsu Kaisen Season 2 Episode 22: MAPPA's Animation Sets New Standards
Jujutsu Kaisen season 2 episode 22 showcases MAPPA's impressive animation once again, as Mahito faces defeat and Pseudo-Geto emerges With the introduction of new characters and intense battles, the episode delivers a thrilling narrative The fans' response has been overwhelmingly positive
The most recent episode of Jujutsu Kaisen Season 2, episode 22 (also known as episode 45), is a significant moment in the series, despite not ending favorably for the main characters. Titled "Metamorphosis, Part 2," the episode premiered on December 22, 2023.
With this release, only two more episodes remain until the season 2 finale, building up excitement among fans. Episode 22 closely follows the manga's storyline, adapting chapters 133 to 135.
Episode 22 concludes the final showdown between Mahito and Yuji, signaling the end of a hated villain and the start of a new intense battle: Pseudo-Geto vs. Yuji Itadori and his allies. It also introduces Yuki Tsukumo to the story. Please note that the following review contains subjective viewpoints and reflects the writer's opinions.
Mahito’s downfall and Pseudo-Geto’s rise: MAPPA’s animation exceeds expectations again in Jujutsu Kaisen season 2 episode 22
Opening events of Jujutsu Kaisen season 2 episode 22
In Jujutsu Kaisen season 2 episode 22, the storyline closely follows the source material, but deviates by omitting the initial scene from chapter 133 featuring Aoi Todo and Arata Nitta's arrival in Tokyo.
MAPPA's decision to move this scene to an earlier episode in the second season makes more narrative sense, aligning it with Todo's entry during the Shibuya Incidents rather than postponing it to episode 22.
As a result, the story of Jujutsu Kaisen season 2 episode 22 begins with a scene involving Panda (in gorilla form) and Atsuya Kusakabe. During their discussion, Kusakabe shares his thoughts on Yuji's loss of control to Sukuna, causing the devastating Shibuya Massacre, and expresses his support for Yuji's execution.
After the Panda-Kusakabe encounter, the focus turns to the contentious scene in the show: Mei Mei and Ui Ui, the siblings, sharing a bed, with Mei Mei provocatively teasing Ui Ui.
Episode 22 then shifts its focus to Choso, as he has a revelation about Yuji and begins to question his own origins. These developments provide a brief moment of calm after the intense encounter between Yuji and the special-grade curse, Mahito. However, they also hint at a sense of calm before the storm, foreshadowing the upcoming face-off between Yuji and his allies against Pseudo-Geto.
Pseudo-Geto in the spotlight, Mahito's story comes to a close
Pseudo-Geto's entry, Mahito's death, Yuji vs. Geto (Image via MAPPA)
In Jujutsu Kaisen season 2 episode 22, the episode picks up right where episode 21 left off with Pseudo-Geto's dramatic entrance. As Yuji rushes to retrieve the Prison Realm and save his mentor, Satoru Gojo, a thrilling showdown unfolds. Mahito tries to attack Geto, but his plan backfires and he is ultimately absorbed by Pseudo-Geto's cursed spirit manipulation and devoured.
In Jujutsu Kaisen season 2 episode 22, a screencap showcases the inevitable outcome of Pseudo-Geto's plan. Mahito, understanding the plan, attempts to attack the cursed spirit. (Image via MAPPA)
Cursed Spirit Manipulation, Maximum: Uzumaki
As a result, this particular Jujutsu Kaisen episode marks the conclusion of this infamous antagonist within the series. It is worth noting that the anime's depiction of Mahito's downfall carries a much stronger emotional punch compared to its portrayal in the manga, which did not have the same level of impact.
After devouring Mahito, Pseudo-Geto goes into detail about the highest level of Cursed Techniques, particularly focusing on Geto’s most powerful technique, Uzumaki. It's worth noting that Uzumaki is a nod to the famous work of Mangaka Junji Ito with the same title, as revealed by Mangaka Gege Akutami in the end note of chapter 134.
The technique used in the Jujutsu Kaisen 0 movie by Suguru Geto against Yuta Okkotsu has been witnessed by the fandom before. However, the performance of the technique by Pseudo-Geto in Jujutsu Kaisen season 2 episode 22 exceeds the level depicted in the movie, showcasing a significantly more powerful execution.
Newcomers enter the fray: The addition of Kyoto Sorcerers, Panda, Kusababe, Choso, and Uraume
Miwa confronts Uzumaki (Image via MAPPA)
As the students of Kyoto Jujutsu High jump into the fray, launching coordinated assaults under the leadership of Kamo, Mai, and Miwa, the battle takes on a thrilling turn. The episode also includes scenes showing the aftermath of Shibuya's landscapes during Miwa's monologue, enhancing what were originally simple dialogues in the manga.
Following Miwa's failed attempt to use the New Shadow Style: Simple Domain against Geto, he counters with his Supreme Art: Uzumaki, also known as Cursed Spirit Manipulation, Supreme Art, Maelstrom, targeting Miwa. Kusakabe steps in, using his own New Shadow Style to rescue Miwa.
Kusakabe saves Miwa, Choso's entry (Image via MAPPA)
In Jujutsu Kaisen season 2 episode 22, the storyline continues with Choso making a sudden appearance in the ongoing conflict. His declaration that Pseudo-Geto is actually Kamo Noritoshi takes Yuji and the others by surprise. This causes a moment of brief amusement as Kyoto student Noritoshi Kamo reacts to the coincidence of their shared names. Utahime Iori quickly clarifies that Choso is likely referring to the most malevolent sorcerer in the history of jujutsu society and the disgrace of the Kamo Clan, who is also over 150 years old.
Choso's disclosure leaves Kamo puzzled (Image via MAPPA)
Moreover, Choso reveals his tie to Yuji Itadori, describing him as his little brother. While the details of their bond are still a mystery in the anime's plot, this suggests a connection that will be clarified later in the story.
The revelation that Yuji is Choso's younger brother adds another layer of humor to the tense atmosphere, leading Panda to seek clarification on their relationship. Panda also mentions Aoi Todo, who also recognizes Yuji as his younger brother.
The evil sorcerer Noritoshi Kamo in Jujutsu Kaisen season 2 episode 22 (Image via MAPPA)
The episode shows the epic battle between Choso and Pseudo-Geto, with Ryomen Sukuna's associate, Uraume, joining in. The anime gives the encounter a more complex and detailed treatment compared to the manga, adding layers of intensity and excitement to the battle through Studio MAPPA's outstanding portrayal.
The struggle against Uraume’s overwhelming strength
Uraume in action (Image via MAPPA)
Choso's impressive display of expertise in the Kamo Clan's Blood Manipulation Cursed Technique astonishes Noritoshi Kamo and sets the stage for a fierce battle with Pseudo-Geto. Additionally, Uraume's formidable strength and use of the Frost Cursed Technique are revealed in Jujutsu Kaisen season 2 episode 22.
The battle against Uraume unfolds as Yuji and his team take advantage of Choso's distraction to join the fray. However, just as Panda prepares to attack, Uraume swiftly immobilizes them with Ice Formation: Frost Calm.
Choso, demonstrating a Reversed Cursed Technique, effortlessly heals the palm wound he inflicted on himself, while Uraume attempts to finish him off. However, Yuji intervenes to save Choso, leading to another amusing exchange where Choso insists that Yuji address him as "big bro."
Choso asks Yuji to call him "big bro" (Image via MAPPA)
The amusing and carefree conversation is interrupted when Momo Nishimiya launches an attack on the villainous pair, but it ends in embarrassing failure. She advises Itadori and Choso to keep fighting, as they are the only ones with the ability to act. However, their efforts are thwarted when Uraume launches a powerful attack, Ice Formation: Icefall, targeting everyone except Itadori.
The climactic conclusion: Yuki Tsukumo’s grand entrance
Yuki Tsukomo's entry in Jujutsu Kaisen season 2 episode 22 (Image via MAPPA)
Uraume's overwhelming strength nearly wipes out Yuji and his allies, pushing them to the brink of defeat. But just as all seems lost, Yuki Tsukumo makes a dramatic entrance, saving the group from certain death.
Yuki, a special-grade sorcerer and second only to Satoru Gojo in strength, brings hope to the protagonists and fans alike. In the meantime, Choso's poison begins to affect Uraume as well.
Jujutsu Kaisen season 2 episode 22: Narrative and animation criticism
Despite these encouraging advancements, uncertainty lingers regarding their ability to dominate and retake control of the Prison Realm, prompting eager anticipation for the next chapter's revelation.
The faceoff between Choso and Pseudo-Geto (Image via MAPPA)
In Jujutsu Kaisen season 2 episode 22, Studio MAPPA once again delivers outstanding production and animation that exceeds expectations. Particularly noteworthy are the sequences depicting Mahito's demise and Pseudo-Geto's Uzumaki, which truly highlight MAPPA's exceptional animation abilities.
The anime's portrayal of these scenes not only exceeds the storytelling in the manga but also surpasses the animation quality seen in both the show's first season and the Jujutsu Kaisen 0 film.
Choso using blood manipulation technique (Image via MAPPA)
The episode's storyline achieves a perfect blend of action sequences and supplementary events that offer a thorough understanding of the aftermath of the events in Shibuya. With Miwa's monologue and the confrontation between Choso and Pseudo-Geto, the anime's storytelling reaches new heights by including extra scenes that enrich the episode for viewers.
Miwa encounters Uzumaki (Image via MAPPA)
The relentless clashes in episode 22 of Jujutsu Kaisen season 2 continue to grip the audience, providing non-stop entertainment and suspense. The audience observes the main characters battling against the formidable ancient sorcerer pair and their immense powers, generating a feeling of anticipation and thrill throughout the episode.
The art in Jujutsu Kaisen season 2 episode 22 is truly exceptional, providing fans with a visually stunning experience. The careful attention to detail and impressive portrayal of Pseudo-Geto's Uzumaki elevate the impact of the scene from the manga. The anime moment where Miwa confronts Uzumaki is truly spine-tingling.
Fan’s reception of Jujutsu Kaisen season 2 episode 22
Jujutsu Kaisen season 2 episode 22 has become one of the most gratifying experiences for audiences with its inclusion of additional action sequences and extra elements. Some fans have noticed parallels between scenes in this episode and those in the movie. For example, Yuta's battle with Geto, in which Geto shattered his sword, mirrored the event of Pseudo-Geto shattering Miwa's sword in this episode.
The comparison between Suguru Geto’s Uzumaki from the movie and Pseudo-Geto’s in episode 22 also showcases the exceptional level of technique and animation seen in the most recent installment.
Furthermore, fans of Jujutsu Kaisen have been quick to point out the striking similarities between specific scenes featuring Yuji and those of Sukuna in season 2 episode 22. In addition to the impressive elements and outstanding portrayal in this episode that have greatly impressed the fandom, it has also sparked the creation of memes and jokes within the community.
An example of this is when Yuji adjusts his hair while Panda questions his relationship with Choso. Fans have noticed similarities between the main character and Sukuna, particularly pointing out that the way Yuji styled his hair in this moment resembles Sukuna's iconic gesture.
Final thoughts
Fans are humorously speculating that Yuji is adopting the "Rizz" persona from this widely beloved antagonist. Additionally, there has been substantial backlash and the creation of memes related to the contentious Mei Mei-Ui Ui scene.
The latest episode of Jujutsu Kaisen season 2, episode 22, is truly exceptional as it brings a pivotal moment in the storyline with the demise of Mahito. Furthermore, it sets the stage for the arrival of intriguing new characters to the plot.
The conclusion of the Shibuya Incidents Arc in the anime sets the stage for Itadori’s Extermination Arc in episode 22. This marks the official introduction of Yuta Okkotsu in the show's storyline, creating excitement among anime fans. Additionally, the episode strategically lays the groundwork for the upcoming Culling Games, which is anticipated to be one of the most intense arcs in the series.
In Jujutsu Kaisen season 2 episode 22, we witness Pseudo-Geto, who has absorbed Mahito, gaining control over the special grade curse’s Soul Manipulation Technique. This development is a crucial element directly tied to his sinister plans for humanity. (Image via MAPPA)
Manga readers are already familiar with this plot development, but fans who only watch the anime can anticipate learning more about it as the malevolent sorcerer is preparing to reveal further information in the next episode.
Related links:
Jujutsu Kaisen season 2 episode 23 release date and time
List of Shibuya Arc locations
Shibuya Incident Timeline
All Deaths in the Shibuya Arc
Shibuya Arc opening theme Easter Eggs
Editor's P/S
As a passionate fan of Jujutsu Kaisen, I am thoroughly impressed with the exceptional animation showcased in season 2 episode 22. MAPPA's dedication to delivering high-quality visuals is evident in every frame, elevating the storytelling to new heights. The intense battles and the introduction of new characters add an exhilarating dimension to the narrative, leaving me eagerly anticipating the upcoming episodes.
The emotional impact of Mahito's defeat is particularly noteworthy. The anime adaptation manages to convey a profound sense of closure and catharsis that surpasses the manga's portrayal. This enhanced emotional resonance is a testament to MAPPA's masterful storytelling and animation techniques. The attention to detail and the seamless integration of the source material demonstrate a deep respect for the fans and the original work. Overall, Jujutsu Kaisen season 2 episode 22 sets a new standard for anime animation and storytelling, leaving me in awe and eagerly awaiting the next installment.
