Jujutsu Kaisen 0 is a prequel film that sets a strong model for stories that can still be standalone in nature, while not being forced to exist outside the anime’s canon or become disposable. The prequel film angle helps an anime in terms of world-building and character development, as it makes the series’ universe feel bigger, while also having the luxury of returning to these characters and ideas in the future. Prequel films are also more accessible to newcomers who aren’t well-versed in the anime’s ongoing narrative, which gives franchises greater potential to draw in new fans with fresh, standalone stories that even veterans can enjoy.

Gege Akutami’s Jujutsu Kaisen is one of the most popular anime to come out in the past decade. Akutami’s dark shonen series has made waves thanks to its suspenseful storylines, chaotic combat, and a rich cast of characters who...