Jujutsu Kaisen 0 changed how anime movies are made by solving the common problems seen in most franchise films. While most prequels exist as afterthoughts or cash grabs, Akutami arranged a cinematic adventure that performs as the missing puzzle piece. The film alters from optional viewing into mandatory education for understanding the series' deeper mechanics.
Jujutsu Kaisen 0 executes what countless anime adaptations fail to accomplish—perfect narrative synchronization. Akutami didn't initiate a prequel that fills gaps in the timeline. Rather, he produced a foundational story that recontextualizes every future event.
It specifies essential character stimuli that splash throughout the main timeline. Gojo's protective outlook toward Yuji Itadori makes complete sense after noticing his similar approach with Yuta Okkotsu. The movie shows why Gojo often stands up to the Jujutsu Society’s unfair treatment of younger sorcerers.

Yuta's journey in the prequel also sets up his crucial role in later arcs. His relationship with Rika and his growth as a sorcerer become vital plot points. The film transforms name-drops in the main series into meaningful character introductions.
Maki Zenin, Toge Inumaki, and Panda appear as first-year students, providing context for their strength and experience in the main series. Their brutal defeat against Suguru Geto explains their drive to become stronger sorcerers.
Jujutsu Kaisen 0 also presents Geto as the villain he truly became after leaving Jujutsu High. Unlike the main series, where Kenjaku controls his body, the film shows Geto's genuine descent into darkness.
Strategic World-Building Via Time in Jujutsu Kaisen 0

Akutami uses the prequel to expand the Jujutsu Kaisen world without getting in the way of the main story. The Night Parade of 100 Demons familiarizes large-scale sorcerer frictions before the Shibuya Incident. This gradual escalation preps viewers for the intense battles ahead. Geto's ideology regarding non-sorcerers builds philosophical groundwork for later conflicts. The movie plants roots that bloom throughout the franchise's development.
Jujutsu Kaisen 0 boldly shifts focus to Yuta Okkotsu instead. This decision pays dividends when Yuta becomes crucial in the Culling Game arc. The film establishes his power level and emotional journey beforehand. This protagonist swap also reflects the series' ensemble approach. Rather than centering everything on Yuji Itadori, Akutami demonstrates that multiple characters can carry compelling narratives.
Many emotional beats also set up future story developments. Kenjaku's later manipulation of Gojo relies on this established bond. The prequel makes Gojo's vulnerability feel earned rather than convenient.

Akutami’s work on Jujutsu Kaisen 0 sets a strong example of how to make a prequel that truly works. The film proves that prequels work best when they serve the larger story rather than existing in isolation. Every element connects to the main timeline's development.
The prequel's hit also exhibits the value of focusing on different characters. By centering Yuta's story, the film boosts the universe while maintaining narrative coherence. This course could inspire other creators to think beyond traditional protagonist-focused prequels.
In the end, Jujutsu Kaisen 0 proves to be a masterclass in prequel storytelling. Gege Akutami devised a film that enriches every facet of the main series while narrating its exciting story. The result is an ideal example of how prequels and sequels can work together harmoniously.