Ever scrolled through anime openings and felt like you were back in art history class? The new season of Jujutsu Kaisen is here, and its opening sequence is packed with nods to famous artworks. Seriously, it’s like the studio MAPPA took a detour through the Louvre before animating this season. You might even miss some if you blink!
As someone who’s spent way too much time analyzing anime and art, I’m excited to break down all the visual references in the new Jujutsu Kaisen opening. Get ready to appreciate the artistry within the animation.
1. Is ‘Jujutsu Kaisen’ Season 3 Streaming Yet?
Yes! Jujutsu Kaisen’s third season, adapting the Culling Game arc, premiered recently, so you can dive into the stylish madness right now.
2. Ophelia by John Everett Millais
John Everett Millais’ Ophelia (1852) is a painting you’ve probably seen before. It depicts Ophelia from Shakespeare’s Hamlet, floating in a pond after her tragic end. The Jujutsu Kaisen opening mirrors this with Mai Zen’in in the same pose. I remember first seeing this painting and being struck by its beauty, even knowing the sad story behind it. This reference could hint at a dark turn for her this season.
3. The Kiss by Gustav Klimt
Gustav Klimt’s The Kiss gets a Jujutsu Kaisen makeover with Yuta Okkotsu and Rikka Takanashi. This version definitely has a darker vibe, fitting their complicated relationship. For those who watched Jujutsu Kaisen 0, you know their bond goes way beyond a simple, sweet romance. It’s a warped kind of love, reflected perfectly in this reference.
4. The Scream by Edvard Munch
Edvard Munch’s The Scream is hard to miss. The opening shows a censored character in agony, echoing the painting’s sense of existential dread. It makes you wonder who this is and what they’re going through. Given the stakes of the Culling Game, it’s probably not going to be pleasant.
5. Dead Mother by Egon Schiele
Egon Schiele’s Dead Mother is a deeper cut. This painting might hint at Itadori’s parentage and his connection to Choso. Remember that flashback Choso had? This could be expanding on that. If you’re not caught up with the manga, prepare for some potential family drama.
6. Two Sleeping Children by Peter Paul Rubens
Peter Paul Rubens’ Two Sleeping Children is reimagined with Mai and Maki Zen’in. The opening highlights the estranged sisters, suggesting they’ll play a bigger role this season. Given their complex history, this could mean some intense moments are on the horizon.
7. Camille Monet and a Child in the Artist’s Garden in Argenteuil by Claude Monet
Panda and Yaga Masamichi get the impressionist treatment in a nod to Claude Monet’s Camille Monet and a Child in the Artist’s Garden in Argenteuil. This is a sweet reference, emphasizing their father-son dynamic. Given how things tend to go in Jujutsu Kaisen, I’m a little worried for them.
8. Dark Night Light Path N City-V by Yoko Tanadori
Yoko Tanadori’s Dark Night Light Path N City-V, a Japanese painting, appears with two mysterious characters. The Y-shaped road hints at a crossroads, suggesting these two will meet at a crucial point in the story. Who do you think they are?
9. Utagawa Kuniyoshi’s Woodblock Prints
Utagawa Kuniyoshi, known for his woodblock prints, gets a subtle nod. The opening references his warrior-versus-tiger art, reflecting the power of a cursed blade. The sequence also shows Yuta and Maki making the same sword slash, winking at fans who ship them. It’s a cool way to add depth for both art enthusiasts and shippers.
10. What Song is Featured in the Opening Theme?
The opening theme song is “Aizo” by King Gnu. The song choice sets the tone for the Culling Game arc.
11. Which Studio Animated ‘Jujutsu Kaisen’?
Studio MAPPA is behind the animation of Jujutsu Kaisen, known for its high-quality visuals and dynamic action sequences.
The new Jujutsu Kaisen opening is more than just a visual treat; it’s an art history lesson. These references add layers to the story, hinting at character arcs and themes. Which art reference was your favorite, and did you spot any others I missed? Share your thoughts in the comments below!