Fans of the hit anime series Jujutsu Kaisen in North America can mark their calendars for December 5, as Jujutsu Kaisen: Execution, a special compilation film, is set to open in theaters. This cinematic event will recap the intense “Shibuya Incident Arc” from Season 2 and offer an early sneak peek at the first two episodes of the highly anticipated “Culling Game Arc,” which will kick off Season 3 in January 2026.
The film, distributed by GKIDS and Toho Animation in North America, provides a unique opportunity to experience the pivotal “Shibuya Incident” on the big screen, directly followed by the debut of Season 3’s initial episodes.
Recapping the “Shibuya Incident Arc”
The “Shibuya Incident Arc,” which concluded the second season of the Jujutsu Kaisen anime in December 2023, is widely regarded as one of the series’ most impactful storylines. The compilation film will present this critical arc in a special format, highlighting the high-stakes battles and significant narrative developments that saw a veil abruptly descend over Shibuya, trapping countless civilians. Satoru Gojo, the strongest jujutsu sorcerer, steps into the chaos only to face a complex scheme by curse users and spirits aiming to seal him away. Yuji Itadori, along with his classmates and other top-tier sorcerers, engages in an unprecedented clash against curses, dramatically altering the course of the jujutsu world.
Glimpse into “The Culling Game Arc”
Following the devastating events of the “Shibuya Incident,” the anime will transition into “The Culling Game Arc.” Jujutsu Kaisen: Execution will provide an exclusive theatrical debut of the first two episodes of this arc, titled “Culling Game Part 1,” ahead of its streaming premiere in January 2026.
What is the “Culling Game”?
The “Culling Game” introduces a deadly survival game orchestrated by the wicked sorcerer Noritoshi Kamo. In the aftermath of the Shibuya Incident, ten colonies across Japan are transformed into dens of curses, forcing those who have gained magical powers to participate in this intense competition. The arc is set to feature the return of Special Grade sorcerer Yuta Okkotsu, the protagonist of Jujutsu Kaisen 0, who is assigned to carry out Yuji Itadori’s execution for his perceived crimes. The theatrical preview is expected to showcase this highly anticipated confrontation between Satoru Gojo’s two beloved students.
Season 3 Official Release and Production
Jujutsu Kaisen Season 3, adapting “The Culling Game Arc,” is officially set to premiere in January 2026. The anime series, produced by TOHO animation and animated by the renowned MAPPA studio, is based on Gege Akutami’s best-selling manga. Shota Goshozono will continue to direct Season 3 at studio MAPPA, with Hiroshi Seko writing the series composition. Yosuke Yajima and Hiromi Niwa are on character design, and Yoshimasa Terui composes the music, all returning from the second season.
The manga itself concluded in late 2024. The announcement of the compilation film and Season 3’s premiere date came during a special fifth-anniversary livestream for the Jujutsu Kaisen anime on August 31, where a teaser trailer for “The Culling Game” was also unveiled. This film aims to refresh long-time fans and offer an accessible entry point for newcomers.
