Jujutsu Kaisen: Unveiling an Unprecedented Masterpiece

Warning: The content below contains spoilers for Episode 27, "Hidden Inventory 3" of Jujutsu Kaisen, currently available for streaming on Crunchyroll.

Once again, Jujutsu Kaisen has managed to deliver something truly extraordinary. Episode 27 showcases an unparalleled level of attention to detail, setting it apart in the world of shonen. This episode not only stands out but also earns the title of a masterpiece due to its carefully constructed pacing and its ability to do justice to one of the most shocking moments in the entire Jujutsu Kaisen manga.

Look Into The Eye

The entire episode centered around the explanation of Gojo's Six Eyes ability, which was shown through the repetitive use of the iris reflection technique. This choice can be justified by the fact that Toji purposely compelled Satoru to deplete his powers by sending continuous but weak enemies, forcing him to remain highly vigilant for an extended period of time. Consequently, the first thing that was reflected in his eyes was the image of a phone, where Riko witnessed her beloved caretaker being taken hostage.

This cut can be utilized to depict introspection, similar to how mirrors are often portrayed. However, its meaning varies depending on what it reflects. In this case, the iris reflects a phone, symbolizing the beginning of the end for Riko's life. This leads to her reevaluating her relationship with Misato, embarking on a trip to Okinawa, and ultimately defining her connection to the real world, causing her hesitation in joining Tengen. Alternatively, this image could represent the shock Riko experiences upon seeing a picture of someone she loves in a bound state, fearing their potential loss.

Regardless, this picture signifies a shift in mindset. However, in the same episode, a different use of this technique is presented. During Toji's first encounter with Satoru Gojo, a gifted child, the same type of frame is used, but this time it reflects Toji himself. This scene portrays the interconnection of both characters' psyches. Toji, isolated from his own clan, and the prodigy Gojo, who is intrigued by Toji's uniqueness as someone with no cursed energy, making him undetectable to Gojo's powerful Six Eyes.

Toji is depicted in this scene as a looming figure, existing within the radiance of Gojo's gaze. Their encounter teeters on the brink of conflict, a relationship bound by external forces, specifically, Tengen's will. It is possible that he exists in the eyes of the most formidable sorcerer to guide and awaken him, serving as a crucial awakening for the chosen one who will triumph over the darkness. Without Toji's involvement, this chosen one may meet their demise prematurely.

Masterful Pacing

When cramming so much content into a 20-minute episode, maintaining a balanced pace that doesn't feel rushed can be an incredibly challenging task. However, Hidden Inventory 3 managed to find a way to experiment with this. In the early stages, they played with the concept of time by incorporating a few flashbacks during the alley scene and then jumping ahead to the characters at the beach. Later on, they continued to use flashbacks to enhance their conversation about rescuing Misato, even though the event had already occurred.

The first part of the episode brought a refreshing change. After building anticipation with the kidnapping plot and ending the previous episode on a tense note, the show abruptly shifted gears with a lighthearted and enjoyable scene at the beautiful beach, complete with vibrant colors and stylish attire. However, it soon became evident that all of these events were merely distractions.

All paths led inexorably to one precise moment. In the midst of the secure confines of Jujutsu High and its formidable barriers, just as they began to relax and let their guard down, Gojo's chest was suddenly impaled by a katana. Gone were the carefree days of kayaking and the satisfaction that came with completing easy missions after the successful capture of their target. Every single event leading up to that fateful instant had been nothing more than the calculated machinations of Toji. The remainder of the episode entangles itself between Gojo's crushing defeat and Riko's serene stroll towards a destiny she adamantly refuses to embrace. The juxtaposition of the exhilaration of battle with the poignant decision to choose life over duty culminates in a captivating and impactful conclusion.

Heartbreak

At the end of the day, the ultimate measure of an episode's worth or accuracy lies within the emotions it evokes. Jujutsu Kaisen's Season 2, Episode 3 masterfully delivered a rollercoaster of emotions, deftly toying with the audience's sentiments. Through Suguru's perspective, we journeyed through an intense range of feelings, from stress to joy, fear to disbelief, hope to love, and ultimately, devastation and anger. From his vantage point, we witnessed Riko's final moments, as she bravely chose to forge ahead, leaving behind tears and embracing life.

Through the crushing weight of heartbreak, they forged a profound connection with Suguru Geto, experiencing his emotions and those of the future antagonist. In that moment of confronting unspeakable cruelty, fury welled up within him, a seething anger that didn't manifest as screams or loss of control, but as a resolute determination to eliminate the man accountable, Toji Fushiguro. Even for a fleeting instant, anyone could envision themselves in Suguru's shoes and grasp the impending consequences the future held for him.