Prepare to delve into the controversial world of anime compilation films, where 'Jujutsu Kaisen: Execution' takes center stage! This article will explore why this particular film format might be the worst impulse in the anime industry.
Imagine witnessing Yuji Itadori, a 16-year-old hero, at his absolute lowest. He's curled up in despair, his tears mixing with the blood from his bleeding nails, mourning the loss of thousands of lives. It's an emotional rollercoaster, but one that leaves you wanting more - a place to truly feel and understand these heavy emotions.
However, 'Jujutsu Kaisen: Execution' falls short of delivering. It's a Frankenstein-like creation, exposing the series' weaknesses while failing to showcase its renowned fight scenes. Instead of the varnished, relentless battles we've come to expect, the story seems to wander aimlessly, throwing Yuji into a blender of pain and suffering.
The controversy lies in the nature of these compilation films. Ever since GKids brought back theatrical anime preview events, the question has been raised: are these 'movies' just stitched-together episodes? And with 'Jujutsu Kaisen', which has a full-arc film and a series to its name, the expectations were higher. But did it live up to them?
'Execution' feels like a half-measure, a median between two extremes. It tries to be both a compilation of the best moments and a preview of what's to come, but ends up satisfying neither. The fight scenes, which should be the highlight, are reduced to a supercut, leaving viewers exhausted and confused.
The film's first half feels like a recap, emphasizing Yuji's guilt and suffering, but without the emotional depth. The second half shifts into preview mode, but the constant battles and dense explanations make it a tiring watch. By the time the main event, the showdown between Yuji and Yuta Okkotsu, takes place, the emotional context is lost, and the fight feels more like a trampoline flip than a dramatic clash of heroes.
And then there's the introduction of the Culling Game, with rules explained at a speed that defies human reading capabilities. Viewers are left exhausted, unable to fully grasp the hype they're supposed to feel. The result is a visually impressive, yet narratively hollow experience.
'Jujutsu Kaisen: Execution' fails to capture the essence of the series, relying on emotional torment rather than a cohesive story. It's a chimera, a confusing blend of recap and preview, and ultimately, a step too far for this anime release format.
Should studios move away from these stitched-together compilations? Or is there still a place for them in the anime world? What do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
