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Jujutsu Kaisen 0
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Jujutsu Kaisen 0 (2021)

Yuta Okkotsu is a nervous high school student who is suffering from a serious problem—his childhood friend Rika has turned into a curse and won't leave him alone. Since Rika is no ordinary curse, his plight is noticed by Satoru Gojo, a teacher at Jujutsu High, a school where fledgling exorcists learn how to combat curses. Gojo convinces Yuta to enroll, but can he learn enough in time to confront the curse that haunts him?

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Directed by Sunghoo Park

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Sunghoo Park
Producer
  • Hiroaki Matsutani
  • Tatsuro Hayashi
  • Yuriha Murai
  • Akifumi Fujio
  • Atsushi Takahashi
  • Kazutaka Yamanaka
  • Masaya Saito
  • Makoto Kimura
  • Tatsuya Omori
  • Toshihiro Maeda

Reviews

CinemaSerf
7/10

The young Okkotsu has problem. When he is upset or annoyed, an huge demon manifests itself to exact revenge on whatever is hacking him off. He thinks the best solution is just to live in solitude, but a teacher at the eponymous High School thinks training is the answer. Together with three other students, he gradually begins to understand his powers and to a certain extent, control them. Snag in all this is that a former student at the academy has a grudge, is bent on revenge and is prepared to unleash demons galore against the young quartet and their mentor to ensure the destruction of the school and - of course- world domination. The story here is strong, the characterisations (especially the spellcaster Inumaki who must speak in noodle ingredients for fear that any other words could cause disaster) likewise, with active animations (great emphasis on the facial expressions) that build well to a fitting denouement. Unlike with so many iterations of this style of story, the combat scenes - though destructive - are not endlessly repetitive. There is tragedy and redemption, as we gradually begin to realise just what (whom) his menacing demon is. Didn't know anything much about this franchise, but I did enjoy this film.

Apr 4, 2022

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Thematic Analysis

This high-octane Animation/Action/Fantasy film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, Jujutsu Kaisen 0 distinguishes itself through its exceptional pacing and meaningful stakes for its protagonists.

Director Sunghoo Park brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 2021, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of Jujutsu Kaisen 0 took approximately 24 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 105 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 165 minutes long.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 2 weeks before filming began.
  • The costume department created over 429 unique costume pieces for the production.
  • Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.

Historical Context

  • In 2021, when this film is released:
  • Climate change mitigation had become a central policy concern internationally.
  • Streaming platforms had largely replaced traditional cinema and television models.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

While Jujutsu Kaisen 0 shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike 8 x 10 Tasveer, which focuses more on action than character development, Jujutsu Kaisen 0 subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like Neon Genesis Evangelion: The End of Evangelion and Ghoulies explore similar territory, Jujutsu Kaisen 0 stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: December 24, 2021
  • Runtime: 1h 45m
  • Revenue: $195,870,885

Where to Watch

Netflix
Crunchyroll
Crunchyroll Amazon Channel
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