The third season of the TV anime " Jujutsu Kaisen, " based on the popular manga by Gege Akutami serialized in "Weekly Gege Akutami Jump" (Shueisha), is titled " The Culling Game Part 1." The third season depicts the "Culling Game," a deadly battle between those who possess cursed magic, and the battle between Hishiguruma Kanemi, a modern sorcerer who has newly awakened as a Swimmer (player), and Yuji Itadori has become a hot topic. We spoke to Tomokazu Sugita, the voice actor for Hishiguruma Kanemi, about what happened behind the scenes of the recording.
◇Nichisha, which is drawn to something
--What are your impressions of "Jujutsu Kaisen" and what do you find appealing about it?
I felt it would be a great waste to dismiss it simply as a trendy manga. One day, I was given a candidate for a certain character, and I waited with anticipation, but I was rejected. I had given up, realizing it was an extremely difficult field. Then, time passed, and I heard about the audition for Nichisha. I clearly remember feeling drawn to it and pouring my soul into the audition tape.
--What were your thoughts and aspirations when you were chosen to appear as Hiromi Nichisha?
I learned about lawyers by researching various case precedents and watching videos. Many of them were complex, and it was quite emotionally draining at times, but I feel that this preparation was very helpful for the Nichisha play.
--What are your impressions of Kanmi Nichisha, and what do you find appealing about him? What are your thoughts on the "retrial"?
Appeals and retrials happen in real trials, but the tension is completely different when it comes to the ritual. I can't forget the Judge Man's indescribably ominous appearance. But I kind of want the clothes with the print on the back as merchandise.
◇The appeal and frightening aspects of Yuji Itadori: What would he like to redo?
--What did you focus on or value while acting?
It's about constantly weighing things and emotions against each other and never neglecting to maintain balance. If you forget that, I feel like you'll become just like the things that Nichisha despises.
--What was the recording process like?
It was a serious work environment, but surprisingly, they entrusted a lot to me, so I made sure to firmly plant both my feet in my place so I wouldn't get swept away. Of course, there was no negative tension. I always think that's unnecessary.
--What were your impressions of working with Yuji Itadori, who plays Junya Enoki Itadori, and what do you find appealing about Itadori as portrayed by Mr. Enoki?
Itadori's words and actions, and his rapidly growing, pure side, are incredibly appealing. He unconsciously influences those around him, which can be frightening at times, but ultimately, I'm grateful for it. And that goes for Enoki-san, who plays him. Thank you as always.
--There are many fascinating characters. Who is your favorite character?
I've been a fan of Nissha ever since I read the manga. I've secretly wanted to play the role for a long time.
--What was the biggest challenge in this project?
Is it a commentary with video? I wasn't worried because I was with Mr. Enoki.
--Have you ever experienced something that you wished you could do over?
I'll answer "nothing" because I'll regret it if I remember.
"Jujutsu Kaisen" is a manga that was serialized in "Weekly Shonen Jump" from March 2018 to September 2024. The story follows high school student Yuji Itadori, who is thrown into a world of battles against curses after a powerful "Culling Game Part 1," has been airing on the MBS/TBS anime block "Super Animeism TURBO" since January. The final episode will be broadcast as an "extended special" with the main story extended to 27 minutes, starting at 12:26 AM on March 26th.
