In episode 11 of the second season of Jujutsu Kaisen, Yuji and Megumi joined forces, evoking a wave of nostalgia among avid manga readers. Although originally prominent in the series, author Gege Akutami gradually shifted the focus away from them, leaving fans longing for more joint appearances.
At the start of Jujutsu Kaisen, the show drew numerous comparisons to Naruto. Those familiar with Masashi Kishimoto's work would recognize similarities between Yuji, Megumi, and characters from Naruto. However, as the manga unfolded, they faced their own distinct challenges and developed a unique sense of self. This only heightened the intrigue of their potential regular collaborations.
Disclaimer: This article contains spoilers for the Jujutsu Kaisen series.
Yuji and Megumi should have teamed up more often in Jujutsu Kaisen
The formula of the Yuji and Megumi characters is a common one seen in many shonen series. It typically involves a cheerful and outgoing protagonist paired with a serious and brooding deuteragonist. Naruto successfully used this formula with its main character and Sasuke Uchiha. It seemed like Jujutsu Kaisen author Gege Akutami was going to follow a similar path... but he didn't.
These two characters only joined forces during the Shibuya Incident arc, and after that, their paths diverged, each facing their own struggles and obstacles. However, manga readers expressed a desire to see them collaborate more frequently, given their strong connection in the series.
Yuji became part of the Jujutsu world through his encounter with Megumi, as they aided each other in confronting a Curse. While this did lead to Sukuna's awakening and negative consequences, they had no control over these events at the time. Their chemistry was undeniable, and they had a significant impact on each other. Unfortunately, as the series progressed into a darker and more chaotic direction, this dynamic was lost.
Yuji and Megumi's character arcs
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Yuji and Megumi's character arcs deconstruct the representations of their archetypes, indicating a deliberate approach from Akutami. Initially, these characters followed a trajectory akin to typical shonen series, but Jujutsu Kaisen exceeds expectations by subverting the norm.
A prime example involves Yuji, whose positive and uplifting persona has repeatedly been challenged and wounded by his experiences as a Jujutsu sorcerer. The losses of friends, his inability to save others, and the countless lives taken by Sukuna through his body gradually eroded Yuji's spirit, transforming him into a more stern and serious individual.
Megumi's lack of self-confidence and his reluctance to prioritize his own needs often hindered his ability to reach his full potential, a sentiment echoed by both Satoru Gojo and Ryomen Sukuna. However, what appeared to be a natural path for growth and empowerment took a devastating turn when his sister's body was forcefully taken and Megumi himself became possessed by Sukuna. This traumatic event gradually shattered Fushiguro's mental state, an unfortunate consequence of the circumstances.
Final thoughts
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The earlier dynamics between Yuji and Megumi in Jujutsu Kaisen were undeniably one of the series' strongest aspects. While there may be valid arguments suggesting that the story improved over time, it's clear that many fans long for the days when these two characters worked together seamlessly. The recent episode of the anime served as a poignant reminder of their undeniable chemistry and has left viewers wondering if Akutami should have explored more of their potential as a duo.