When Jujutsu Kaisen burst onto the scene in 2018, it immediately charmed fans with its intriguing cast of characters, particularly its villains.
Unlike many other series, where antagonists often have sympathetic backstories, Jujutsu Kaisen took a different approach, presenting villains with chilling motives yet undeniable charm.
Gege Akutami, the creator of Jujutsu Kaisen, has a distinct philosophy when it comes to crafting antagonists. They eschew the use of sympathy to justify villainous actions, preferring instead to focus on the clash of ideologies between protagonists and antagonists.
In an interview translated and shared by @soukatsu_ on X, Akutami elaborated on their approach, emphasizing the importance of creating conflicts based solely on characters’ convictions and motives.
Take, for example, Choso, whose sole motivation is to protect his younger brothers. When Yuji inadvertently causes their deaths, Choso seeks revenge. However, upon discovering his blood relation to Yuji, Choso’s loyalties shift, leading him to aid Yuji in his battle against Sukuna.
Characters like Toji Fushiguro also resonate with fans for their unwavering convictions and fierce demeanor. The clash between these complex characters and the rest of the cast adds depth and intrigue to the series.
Jujutsu Kaisen’s villains are not defined by tragic pasts but by their resolute beliefs and their conflicts with the protagonists, making them compelling adversaries in a story filled with moral ambiguity and intense battles.