What is the Mystery behind the 'Human Earthworm' Movie Series in Jujutsu Kaisen?

Highlights

Jujutsu Kaisen Season 2, Episode 30 introduces the Human Earthworm series and reveals its plot, featuring a demented doctor and an enhanced Human Earthworm monster.

Inspired by films and literature such as Frankenstein and Edward Scissorhands, The Human Earthworm series delves into the themes of rejection and fear towards individuals who possess an unconventional appearance. Through examining society's response to the creature and its eventual destiny, the series prompts questioning of who truly qualifies as the monstrous beings.

Spoilers ahead for Jujutsu Kaisen Season 2, Episode 30, available for streaming on Amazon Prime.

Devoted fans of Jujutsu Kaisen might have caught onto a captivating narrative twist in Season 2, Episode 30. The episode commences with Yuji, Nobara, and Megumi strolling down the street as they deliberate their plans. Megumi confesses his weariness and departs, while Nobara expresses her desire to indulge in some shopping.

The Man, The Myth, The Earthworm?

Yuji, with his eccentric personality, expresses his desire to watch the latest installment of the Human Earthworm series, titled Human Earthworm Four. He extends an invitation to Nobara to join him, but she promptly voices her disgust, mentioning that she has yet to watch parts one, two, or three. Undeterred, Yuji reassures her that it's not an issue and she can still enjoy the series starting from part four. He then proceeds to provide a detailed description of what the series entails.

In Jujutsu Kaisen season 1, episode 9, there is a reference to the Human Earthworm series. Dedicated fans of the series may recall that Junpei, one of the characters, skips school to watch Human Earthworm three. However, he is unaware that Mahito, a cursed spirit, has entered the cinema before him. Inside the cinema, Mahito kills Junpei's bullies. Surprisingly, Junpei, being able to see cursed spirits, confronts Mahito regarding his actions. Later on, Yuji is tasked with interrogating Junpei to determine whether he is a jujutsu sorcerer or a cursed spirit. As the two spend time together, they bond over their shared passion for movies. In particular, they discuss the Human Earthworm series, both agreeing that the second installment was particularly notable, despite its gruesome nature. Though certain scenes from the series are shown during their conversation, the plot and origins of the series remain elusive, with only a glimpse of a disturbed doctor hinted at.

The Real Monster?

In Season 2, Episode 30 of the series, Yuji finally discloses more information to Nobara and the devoted Jujutsu Kaisen fans. This episode delves into the mysterious Human Earthworm four, shedding light on its origins and intricacies. Yuji begins his explanation by introducing the return of the deranged doctor, Dr. Richter, who remains as disturbed as ever. The mad doctor conducts gruesome experiments on an unfortunate individual, injecting him with an earthworm and transforming him into the monstrous and enhanced Human Earthworm. Subsequently, Earthworm Man manages to escape but is met with peculiar gazes from the public. Feeling humiliated, he seeks refuge at a campsite, coincidentally coming across a group of college students. Fate intertwines their paths as the Human Earthworm encounters a girl who shares his passion for animal rights. Initially frightened by his appearance, she eventually falls in love with him. The series reaches its climax when the Human Earthworm expresses his sorrow and identity crisis, only to be interrupted by the girl's friends. Mistaking her for being in danger, one of them viciously attacks the Human Earthworm, causing him to collapse onto the ground. Suddenly, the human earthworm's offspring emerge from the shadows surrounding the girl and her friends, chanting "Dad."

While there are speculations among fans that the Human Earthworm series draws inspiration from the controversial three-part movie, The Human Centipede, it is clear that the series actually derives influences from other sources such as Frankenstein and Edward Scissorhands. Similar to these works, the Human Earthworm series portrays a monster who is shunned by society and feared due to their appearance. Furthermore, an important reference is made when the girl declares that killing the Human Earthworm would make them the true monsters. This theme of humans transforming into monsters is a recurring motif in several movies.