Jujutsu Kaisen Finale Sparks Controversy: Artist’s ‘Sequel’ Infuriates Fans

Jujutsu Kaisen Finale Sparks Controversy: Artist’s ‘Sequel’ Infuriates Fans

Recent chapters of Jujutsu Kaisen have sparked considerable debate within its fan community. Despite this controversy, the series concluded on a high note with a final chapter that many believe successfully closed the narrative. However, not all fans were satisfied, prompting some to embark on a project to create alternative chapters.

The initiative, dubbed “Jujutsu No Kaisen“, took off from chapter 236—the pivotal moment associated with Gojo’s dramatic demise at the hands of Sukuna. This fan project aims to “alter the ending to satisfy everyone”and “provide full representation for the characters,”as stated on their official site. After months of effort, the project has released its first chapter, garnering mixed reactions from the manga’s devotees.

Jujutsu No Kaisen Faces Substantial Criticism

Art Quality Concerns

A significant point of contention among fans is the quality of the art in Jujutsu No Kaisen. Critics allege that numerous panels appear to be traced from other well-known mangas, including the official Jujutsu Kaisen itself. There are also claims involving the use of AI in the artwork, with Community Notes indicating that the content is fan-made, containing both traced and potentially AI-generated panels. Notable Twitter user @Kamenrainer has pointed out several panels that they argue appear heavily influenced by AI.

The allegations regarding AI usage are especially troubling given the growing concerns about how AI threatens creative professions. KamenRainer highlighted that the artwork in question features peculiarities indicating AI involvement, including nonsensical shapes and disconnected lines.

Critique of Dialogue and Characterization

Sukuna standing on top of a defeated Gojo

Another area where fans found Jujutsu No Kaisen lacking is in its dialogue. Gege Akutami is known for crafting impactful dialogue that deepens characterization and adds layers of meaning. Unfortunately, many readers felt that the fan adaptation fell short in this regard. For example, a line narrated after Sukuna overpowers Gojo simply states, “The king of curses drained all his efforts and energy because of his opponent who was very strong,”a sentiment criticized by @JeanTheMachine0.

Characterization inconsistencies further fueled criticism. Specifically, Geto Suguru’s portrayal diverged significantly from his original characterization in Jujutsu Kaisen. The fan adaptation depicts him as overly energetic and childish, contrasting sharply with the serious and composed persona established in the original narrative. This shift risks alienating fans who cherish the intricate dynamics between Geto and Gojo.

Moreover, @hurtjutsu pointed out a glaring continuity error featuring Ijichi in a scene implying his death, even when he remained alive in the most recent official chapter.

Pacing issues have also been highlighted. While the original manga often shifted seamlessly between rapid developments and slower moments of reflection, the fan adaptation rushed through significant events, such as Gojo’s death, without affording his students a chance to process their loss.

Commitment to Address Fan Concerns

Creators Plan More Chapters

In response to the critical feedback, the creators of Jujutsu No Kaisen are striving to produce additional chapters and address the prevailing negativity. Recently, a now-deleted poll revealed that approximately 90% of voters opposed the continuation of the project, indicating widespread discontent. Despite this, the project’s team remains optimistic, asserting that they can transform critics’ comments into praise once the full story is revealed.

Jujutsu No Kaisen: A New Chapter in Fan-Driven Critiques

Echoes of Past Fan Projects

Attack on Titan Requiem poster featuring Eren and Reiner

This isn’t the first time fans have attempted to “fix”a controversial ending in anime and manga. The conclusion of Attack on Titan, for example, inspired a project called Attack on Titan Requiem, which sought to revise the final three chapters. Despite the different contexts, both projects faced considerable backlash as they attempted to alter narratives that had already established strong follower bases.

While superficially similar, these projects diverge from traditional fan fiction, which typically emerges from an appreciation for the source material. Fix-it fics aim to amend failing elements while remaining respectful to the original narrative. Given how audacious it is to assert one is “fixing”a beloved work, the strong reactions to even minor imperfections are understandable.

Reaffirming the Brilliance of the Original Series

Gege Akutami’s Conclusive Mastery

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Sukuna's final appearance in Jujutsu Kaisen

Ironically, Jujutsu No Kaisen’s release has led some fans to reevaluate Gege Akutami’s official ending. As noted by user @Neos_Syber, “I think everyone owes Gege an apology at this point; say what you will about the official JJK ending, but at least there was something decent in there. This thing seems to have emerged from spite and unchecked hubris.”

While the sealed chapters of the original Jujutsu Kaisen contain their share of flaws, they ultimately remained true to the essence of the story and provided many characters with fitting conclusions. Being regarded as one of the standout shonen series of the past decade, it’s no wonder that fans reacted passionately to a fan project that does not honor the original’s intricate artistry and effort.

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