Jujutsu Kaisen [Season 1-2]

Alright, let’s dive into Jujutsu Kaisen Seasons 1 and 2. First off, if you haven’t seen this show yet, what are you even doing? It’s like MAPPA took all the best parts of shonen anime—epic fights, complex characters, and a dark, twisty plot—and cranked them up to 11. Let’s break it down, but fair warning: I’m about to gush… and maybe rant a little.

Starting with Season 1, which dropped in 2020 (wait, no—wait, actually, let me check: Season 1 was 2020, right? Yeah, that’s when it blew up). The story follows Yuji Itadori, a super athletic high school kid who stumbles into the world of jujutsu sorcery after swallowing a cursed finger. For those who don’t know, cursed fingers are basically pieces of the King of Curses, Sukuna, and Yuji becomes his vessel. The setup is classic: Yuji joins Jujutsu High, trains with his friends Megumi and Nobara, and fights curses (monsters born from human negativity). But what makes it stand out? The animation. MAPPA’s work here is insane—every fight is fluid, dynamic, and packed with style. Remember the first time Yuji uses Black Flash? Or when Gojo takes off his blindfold? Chills.

Season 2, which aired in 2023, is where things get real. It’s split into two arcs: the Gojo’s Past arc (episodes 1-5) and the Shibuya Incident arc (episodes 6-23). Let’s talk about Gojo’s Past first. Oh my god, this arc is a masterpiece. We get to see Gojo as a teen, back when he was already a cocky genius but not yet the “Strongest” we know. His friendship with Geto is heart-wrenching—their bond, their falling out, it’s all so well-done. The fight between Gojo and Toji Fushiguro? Chef’s kiss. Toji is such a badass, and the way Gojo unlocks his Limitless technique is one of the best moments in the entire series.

Then there’s the Shibuya Incident. If you thought Season 1 was dark, this arc is a gut punch. The villains (led by Kenjaku, Geto’s body with a different brain) seal Gojo in the Prison Realm, leaving the sorcerers to fend for themselves. The chaos that follows is brutal—major characters die, Yuji’s mental state crumbles, and Sukuna gets more power. The animation here is next-level. The fight between Sukuna and Mahoraga? That’s some of the best action I’ve ever seen in anime. The way Sukuna uses his Domain Expansion, Malevolent Shrine, is terrifyingly beautiful. And don’t even get me started on the emotional moments—like Nobara’s “death” (I’m still not over it) or Yuji’s breakdown after realizing he can’t save everyone.

Now, let’s talk about the characters. Yuji is such a likable protagonist—he’s kind, loyal, and has a great sense of humor, but he’s also dealing with so much guilt (from being Sukuna’s vessel and the people he can’t save). Megumi is the quiet, brooding type, but his growth throughout the series is amazing—from being a reluctant sorcerer to someone who’s willing to risk everything for his friends. Nobara is a breath of fresh air—she’s confident, sassy, and doesn’t take crap from anyone. And Gojo? Well, he’s Gojo—charismatic, overpowered, and secretly a huge softie for his students. The supporting cast is also great: Maki, who’s fighting to prove herself despite being from a non-sorcerer family; Panda, the talking panda (yes, really); and Inumaki, who can only speak in onigiri toppings (hilarious and tragic).

But it’s not all perfect. Some fans have criticized the pacing in Season 2—especially the Shibuya Incident, which can feel overwhelming with all the subplots and character deaths. And while the animation is top-tier, there were a few episodes with noticeable quality drops (though that’s to be expected with MAPPA’s tight schedules). Also, the ending of Season 2 is a cliffhanger that leaves you screaming for more—we need Season 3 now.

Speaking of Season 3, there’s a movie that came out recently (Jujutsu Kaisen Movie: Shibuya Jihen Tokubetsu) that’s a recap of Season 2 with a preview of Season 3. From what I’ve seen in discussions, fans are split. Some loved seeing the Shibuya fights on the big screen (especially Sukuna vs. Mahoraga), but others felt it was a waste of money because it’s mostly recap. The new episode preview for Season 3 looks promising, though—set in the Culling Game arc, where sorcerers and cursed users fight to the death for power. It seems like Yuji, Megumi, and the others are in for even more trouble.

Overall, Jujutsu Kaisen Seasons 1 and 2 are a must-watch. The story is gripping, the characters are memorable, and the animation is some of the best in the business. It’s not just a shonen anime—it’s a deep dive into themes like death, guilt, and what it means to be human. If you’re into action, supernatural elements, or just great storytelling, this series has it all. Just be prepared to cry (a lot) and scream at your screen when things go wrong.

So, what are you waiting for? Go watch Jujutsu Kaisen—you won’t regret it. And when you’re done, join the rest of us in waiting (impatiently) for Season 3.

Rating: 9.5/10 (only docking half a point for the cliffhanger and minor pacing issues).

P.S. If you haven’t read the manga, do it—there’s so much more depth and backstory that the anime hasn’t covered yet. Trust me, it’s worth it.

P.P.S. Gojo’s theme song is a bop. You’re welcome.