Warning: This article contains spoilers.
Volume 27 of Jujutsu Kaisen was released on July 4th. In chapters 239 to 243, there is a unique battle between Takaba and Kenjaku. Takaba’s ability is very different from other jujutsu sorcerers and is quite unique. Understanding Japanese local culture is necessary to fully grasp its meaning. Especially in chapter 243, there is a contest that Takaba and Kenjaku participate in, which I will explain in this article.
Takaba’s Profession
Takaba is a Japanese comedian who performs in a style called “Manzai”.
What is Manzai?
Manzai is a popular Japanese comedy style performed by a pair of comedians. Typically, one person plays the “boke” (funny man) who says silly or incorrect things, while the other plays the “tsukkomi” (straight man) who corrects or reacts to the boke.
Takaba’s Ability
Takaba’s jujutsu ability is very unique:
- He can force an image that he is confident will make people laugh onto his opponent (he can use this image to attack).
- This image can nullify his opponent’s attacks.
This is a nearly omnipotent technique, capable of standing against even Gojo. Fushiguro is relieved that Takaba is not their enemy, as his technique is incredibly powerful.
What is M-1?
In Japan, many comedians who perform manzai participate in an annual event called “M-1” (Manzai No.1). They compete to make people laugh, and becoming the champion is a big goal for all comedians. Many viewers watch this event in December, and it becomes a popular topic across different age groups.
The M-1 Contest in Chapter 243
In chapter 243, Kenjaku decides to counter Takaba’s nearly invincible ability by thinking, “Laughter should be met with laughter.” He uses Takaba’s ability to create the stage of the M-1 contest. Kenjaku plans to perform manzai with Takaba on this dream stage and get a big laugh. By making Takaba satisfied, Kenjaku aims to end Takaba’s technique. This was the path Kenjaku found to achieve victory.
Conclusion
This episode in Jujutsu Kaisen is quite unique and surprising also for Japanese readers. I hope this article helps explain the background and story.
