Jujutsu Kaisen: Shimetsu Kaiyuu – Zenpen [Season 3 Episode 4]

Jujutsu Kaisen Season 3 Episode 4: A Masterclass in Chaos and Sisterhood

If you thought last week’s episode was intense, Jujutsu Kaisen Season 3 Episode 4 just turned the dial to 11 and smashed it off. Titled “Absolute Cinema” by fans, this installment dives headfirst into Maki Zenin’s brutal reckoning with her clan, and let’s just say—no one is safe.

First off, let’s talk about the elephant in the room: the animation. MAPPA didn’t just adapt this episode; they elevated it. From the opening sequence, where Maki storms the Zenin compound like a force of nature, to the Kill Bill-inspired black-and-white fight scenes (yes, that’s a thing), every frame feels like a love letter to action fans. One user on MyAnimeList raved, “They went all out for this ep,” and honestly? Understatement of the year. The way Maki’s movements flow—sharp, unforgiving, human—makes you forget you’re watching a cartoon. It’s like watching a live-action martial arts film, but with cursed energy and more blood.

But it’s not all punches and decapitations. The heart of the episode lies in Maki and Mai’s relationship. Mai, who’s been a divisive character (let’s be real, she’s kind of a brat), finally gets her moment to shine. When she sacrifices herself to give Maki the power to destroy the Zenin clan, it’s a gut punch. Fans are split—some say Mai’s death was “painful and sad,” while others argue it was “beautiful and touching.” Either way, it’s impossible not to feel something when Maki holds her sister’s body, tears mixing with blood. As one commenter put it, “Mai might not have the screentime fans wanted, but her impact is unforgettable.”

Let’s not forget the Zenin clan’s comeuppance. These guys have been the worst since day one—misogynistic, power-hungry, and just plain annoying. Seeing Maki take them down one by one? Chef’s kiss. Naoya, the clan’s golden boy, gets his smug face rearranged in a fight that’s equal parts satisfying and brutal. Fans couldn’t get enough: “That smug little shit Naoya got his shit pushed in,” one user cheered. Even the minor Zenin members, like the Kukuru unit, get their due—though their demise is so over-the-top, it’s almost comedic. “The music when Maki is chopping the KUKURU unit is just not what I expected,” another fan laughed. “Felt so unserious!”

Of course, no episode is perfect. Some fans criticized the soundtrack, saying it felt “unserious” during dark moments. Others wished the Toji reference (yes, Maki channels her inner Toji) was more impactful. But let’s be real—when an episode is this good, the flaws are easy to overlook. As one commenter summed it up: “Rarely does an anime episode elevate what’s already one of the most impactful moments in a good manga, but this is definitely one of those times.”

What makes this episode stand out, though, is its ability to balance chaos with emotion. One minute you’re gasping at Maki’s one-inch punch (hello, Bruce Lee vibes), the next you’re wiping away tears at Mai’s final words. It’s a rollercoaster of feelings, and MAPPA nails every twist and turn. The use of color—from the stark black-and-white fight scenes to the warm flashbacks of Maki and Mai as kids—adds depth to the story, making it feel more like a film than a TV episode.

If you’re a Jujutsu Kaisen fan, this episode is a must-watch. It’s not just about the action; it’s about family, sacrifice, and what happens when you push someone too far. As one user put it, “Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned”—and Maki Zenin is living proof.

So grab your popcorn, turn off the lights, and prepare to be blown away. Jujutsu Kaisen Season 3 Episode 4 isn’t just an episode—it’s a masterpiece. And if you’re not already hyped for the rest of the season, this will definitely change your mind.

Final verdict? 10/10. Absolute cinema. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to rewatch that Kill Bill reference scene for the 10th time.

— A very satisfied Jujutsu Kaisen fan