Mixed Feelings: MAPPA's Controversial Decision Overshadows Yuji's Heart-wrenching Shibuya Encounter

In season 2 episode 17 of Jujutsu Kaisen, Sukuna's fierce clash with Mahoraga is depicted, showcasing the commencement of his domain. This crucial event unravels as a horrifying massacre, causing widespread destruction among civilians and serving as a turning point in Yuji's personal development.

The sight of Sukuna's brutal actions, as he possesses Yuji's body, sparks a profound transformation in Yuji's attitude and actions. This episode effectively sets the stage for highlighting Yuji's unwavering resolve to vanquish Sukuna, encapsulating the deeply emotional essence of the Shibuya Incident.

The adaptation effectively depicts the intense inner turmoil of Yuji, but unfortunately undermines it by using a lively opening song during the scenes of his mental breakdown.

Jujutsu Kaisen: Yuji's lowest moments yet

Sukuna as shown in the anime (Image via MAPPA)

Jujutsu Kaisen season 2 episode 17 is an exceptional display of animation, featuring some of the series' most stunning sequences. It serves as a significant turning point, revealing the aftermath of Yuji being possessed by Sukuna.

This episode explores the devastating consequences of Sukuna's actions, particularly the destruction of a city and the countless innocent lives lost. Witnessing these horrors triggers a profound emotional breakdown in Yuji, fundamentally altering his character. This transformation becomes the catalyst for Yuji's growth, as he forsakes his previously carefree and jovial demeanor.

In the anime, Yuji is shown to be deeply traumatized. The episode skillfully portrays his realization and disgust, building the foundation for his unwavering determination to defeat Sukuna. With its breathtaking animation, this episode effectively communicates the weight of Yuji's inner turmoil and the significance of the Shibuya Incident arc, making it a standout highlight in the Jujutsu Kaisen series.

Fan reactions to the bizarre song placement

Jujutsu Kaisen season 2 episode 17 reached a poignant climax as Yuji finally regained control over Sukuna, exposing the horrific extent of the cursed spirit's rampage—devastating a city and claiming numerous innocent lives. This revelation left Yuji shattered emotionally, resulting in a heartbreaking declaration of self-destruction, indicating a crucial turning point in his character.

However, the impact of this powerful scene was marred by the ill-timed inclusion of the opening song, "You Are My Specialz." Fans voiced their widespread dissatisfaction, criticizing the song's placement as incongruous with one of Yuji's darkest moments.

This generated a surge of memes and tweets mocking the unusual selection of music. Followers even playfully remarked that, despite Yuji's voice actor going to the extent of dropping to his knees to deliver the scene, it appeared to be in vain as the lively song contradicted the sorrowful storyline.

Fans speculated about Sukuna's perspective regarding the placement of the song, suggesting that it might amuse the cursed spirit by trivializing the gravity of Yuji's suffering. Criticism was directed towards MAPPA, with fans calling for a more thoughtful approach and advocating for moments of silence to intensify the emotional impact of certain scenes. Additionally, this incident sparked a broader conversation among the fan community about the intricate equilibrium between sound design and narrative significance in anime production.

Final Thoughts

Despite the somewhat disappointing ending song, Yuji's scene remains a pivotal moment in Jujutsu Kaisen. It sets the stage for the upcoming arc, foreshadowing the tragic events that will unfold. Additionally, the subsequent scenes of a severely injured Kento Nanami walking in the subway further amplify the impact of this crucial scene.

Editor's P/S

As a Gen Z netizen, I have mixed feelings about MAPPA's controversial decision to use a lively opening song during the scenes of Yuji's mental breakdown in Jujutsu Kaisen season 2 episode 17. On the one hand, I understand that the song is meant to be ironic and to highlight the contrast between Yuji's inner turmoil and the chaos unfolding around him. On the other hand, I think the song is a bit too distracting and takes away from the emotional impact of the scene.

I think it would have been more effective to have a moment of silence or a more somber song playing during this scene. This would have allowed viewers to focus on Yuji's emotions and to really feel the weight of what he is going through.

Overall, I think MAPPA made a mistake by using the lively opening song during this scene. It was a poor choice that detracted from the emotional impact of the scene.