In the ever-evolving world of anime, few series have captured global attention like Jujutsu Kaisen. With Season 3 diving deep into the intense Culling Game arc, Episode 4 has exploded onto the scene, earning rave reviews and sparking endless discussions on X (formerly Twitter). Debuting with a staggering 9.8/10 rating on IMDb, this episode focuses on Maki Zenin’s brutal confrontation with the Zenin Clan, blending high-octane action, emotional depth, and cinematic flair. If you’re an anime fan wondering why everyone’s buzzing, we’ve compiled the highlights from X reactions, key moments, and what makes this episode a standout. Spoiler warning: We’ll keep major plot details light, but proceed with caution!
Episode Overview: A Turning Point in the Culling Game
Season 3 of Jujutsu Kaisen, subtitled “The Culling Game Part 1,” continues to build on the chaos following the Shibuya Incident. Episode 4 shifts the spotlight to Maki Zenin, a character who’s long been a fan favorite for her resilience and no-nonsense attitude. Directed by the talented Shota Goshozono, this installment adapts some of the manga’s most cathartic moments, transforming them into a visual spectacle.
The episode explores themes of family betrayal, empowerment, and revenge, drawing parallels to classic action films. Maki’s journey here is not just about physical battles but emotional liberation, encapsulated in an African proverb shared by fans on X: “The child who is not embraced by the village will burn it down to feel its warmth.” With stunning animation from MAPPA, including fluid fight sequences and innovative background work, it’s no wonder viewers are hailing it as one of the best episodes in the series—and potentially of the decade.
Fan Reactions on X: From Hype to Emotional Outbursts
The X timeline has been flooded with reactions since the episode dropped on January 22, 2026. Fans are united in their praise, with terms like “absolute cinema,” “peak animation,” and “best episode ever” trending worldwide. Here’s a curated look at the buzz:
- Overwhelming Praise for Maki’s Performance: Users like @Cosmi_Rynn exclaimed, “PRETTY SURE I JUST WATCHED KILL BILL ON FUCKING CRACK MAN. MAKI ZENIN YOU ABSOLUTE BEAST WHAT THE FUCK?!?!” Echoing this, @dejavucoder called it “holy shit jjk s3 ep4 maki’s episode was absolute cinema.” Maki’s rampage against the Zenin Clan has been described as empowering and visceral, with many highlighting her growth from a sidelined sorcerer to a force of nature.
- Emotional Impact and Tears: Not all reactions were pure adrenaline; some hit hard emotionally. @c4nnib4ll_ shared, “bye i literally sobbed IN CLASS because i watched the jjk season 3 episode 4 while in school.” The episode’s handling of loss and awakening resonated deeply, with fans appreciating how it balances action with heartfelt moments.
- Humor and Memes Amid the Intensity: Even in the midst of chaos, X users found humor. @tim_stoehr97 posted a gif capturing the episode’s absurdity, noting, “Literally Nobody: People in JJK S3 Episode 4 for some reason (it’s hilarious).” Memes about Naoya Zenin’s defeat and the clan’s downfall have gone viral, adding levity to the heavy themes.
- Mixed Notes on Music and Pacing: While the majority are ecstatic, a few pointed out minor gripes. @mightysoren acknowledged, “Yes, the music choices for 1 or 2 scenes was off, BUT, the important moments that make this part of the story PEAK were caught with precision.” Overall, these critiques are overshadowed by the episode’s strengths.
With thousands of likes, reposts, and views on posts from accounts like @AnimexTwts and @animeupdates, the consensus is clear: Episode 4 is a masterclass that elevates the season.
Animation and Direction: MAPPA’s Finest Hour
MAPPA Studios continues to push boundaries, and Episode 4 is a testament to their prowess. Key animator Shota Shigetsugu (credited as Honehone) delivered jaw-dropping sequences, including background animations that enhance the fight’s dynamism. Fans on X, such as @Zakiabjr, praised, “Gosso’s action SB is insanely good also incredible BG animation.”
The episode draws heavy inspiration from Quentin Tarantino’s Kill Bill, with action cuts mimicking the film’s style—think intense swordplay and dramatic showdowns. @animeupdates highlighted this, noting, “‘JUJUTSU KAISEN: The Culling Game’ Season 3 Episode 4 featured a handful of action cuts inspired by Kill Bill!” This blend of anime flair with live-action influences has fans calling it “the most ambitious episode” in the series.
Screenshots and clips shared by @PasTPourChien (over 100 high-quality captures) and @CommodoreLaz underscore the visual feast, from Maki’s fierce expressions to the clan’s crumbling defenses.
Comparisons and Cultural Inspirations
Beyond the action, Episode 4 weaves in deeper narratives. The Zenin Clan’s patriarchal structure is critiqued through Maki’s story, resonating with real-world discussions on gender roles. X user @wavelion3200 tied it to cultural wisdom, while others compared Maki’s arc to Toji Fushiguro’s legacy, dubbing her “the next Toji.”
Inspirations from Kill Bill aren’t just superficial; they amplify the episode’s revenge motif, making Maki’s massacre feel like a cinematic payoff. This has sparked threads analyzing how Jujutsu Kaisen blends shonen tropes with mature storytelling, keeping the series fresh in 2026’s crowded anime landscape.
What’s Next for Jujutsu Kaisen Season 3?
With Episode 4 setting a high bar, anticipation builds for the rest of the Culling Game. Teasers hint at more character visuals (like Maki’s shared by @animetv_off) and upcoming battles involving fan favorites like Hakari. X is already speculating on future episodes, with trends like #JujutsuKaisen and #呪術廻戦 gaining traction.
If you’re catching up, stream on Crunchyroll for the best experience—support the creators and dive into the hype!
Final Thoughts: Why Episode 4 Is a Must-Watch
Jujutsu Kaisen Season 3 Episode 4 isn’t just another chapter; it’s a pivotal moment that’s redefining anime excellence. From Maki’s empowering rampage to MAPPA’s innovative direction, it’s earned its spot as a contender for “episode of the year.” As @CommodoreLaz put it, “One of the best anime episodes this decade… Cinema at its finest.”
What did you think of Maki’s big moment? Drop your reactions in the comments below, and follow for more anime insights. Stay tuned for our breakdown of Episode 5!
