The article is a translation of the reactions from Japan to the broadcast of the 42nd episode (18th episode of Season 2) “Rihi” of the anime “Jujutsu Kaisen,” based on the manga by Gege Akutami, aired on November 23.
Concerns of ‘Is It Animatable?’ Raised for Nanamin’s Episode
Shortly after its start, the episode, focusing on the character Nanami Kento, known as “Nanamin,” became the number one trend on X (formerly Twitter).
The “Shibuya Incident” arc of Season 2 depicts a fierce battle between sorcerers and curse users, trapping many civilians around the bustling Shibuya station during Halloween. Episode 42 shows the protagonist Yuji Itadori encountering Nanami, who is severely injured with half his body burned, in the aftermath of Sukuna’s devastating attack on Shibuya. Nanami’s final words to Itadori, “I leave the rest to you,” before being defeated by Mahito, marks the start of the battle between Itadori and Mahito.
This arc sees many characters, both allies and enemies, falling in a hellish scenario. The shocking scenes involving the popular character Nanamin in the original manga had already saddened many fans and raised concerns about their adaptability in the anime due to their brutal nature. However, the anime adaptation featured unique presentations, including changes in character positions and showing the faces of Nanami and his colleague Haibara, which were previously depicted only from behind in the manga. The addition of color in the anime made these scenes feel even more impactful and shocking.
Before the episode aired, voice actor Kenjiro Tsuda, who plays Nanami, posted in character on X, saying, “Stick to the facts, discipline yourself, that’s who I am.” His post-episode tweet, accompanied by a script of episode 42 and saying “I leave the rest to you,” deeply moved fans. During the broadcast, “Nanamin” trended on X, and afterwards, fans expressed their overwhelming emotions with comments like “I couldn’t stop sobbing,” “Tears for Nanamin,” and “Thank you, Nanamin, for everything.”
Yuichi Nakamura, the voice actor of Gojo Satoru, also interacted playfully with Tsuda’s post, reflecting their characters’ relationship in the anime. His response, “I’m in the box, but I’ll take care of it,” referring to Gojo’s confinement, delighted fans.
With the loss of a reliable ally, the Shibuya Incident arc promises to be an increasingly brutal and gripping saga for fans.
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