The anime world is buzzing with excitement over the release of JUJUTSU KAISEN: Hidden Inventory / Premature Death – The Movie, but a recent controversy has cast a shadow over the highly anticipated film. On June 5, 2025, the official Jujutsu Kaisen X account (@animejujutsu) issued a strongly worded statement addressing the illegal recording and distribution of the movie's ending scenes, which have surfaced on various online platforms. The statement highlights the legal consequences of such actions and urges fans to respect copyright laws to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
The issue came to light after unauthorized images and video footage from the movie's conclusion began circulating on social media platforms like X, YouTube, TikTok, and Facebook. The leaked content has sparked frustration among the Jujutsu Kaisen team and its dedicated fanbase, as it undermines the hard work of the creators and spoils the experience for those who have yet to see the film in theaters. The Hidden Inventory / Premature Death arc, which was adapted into this cinematic release, dives into the backstory of fan-favorite characters like Satoru Gojo and Suguru Geto during their time as students at Jujutsu High. The arc, originally part of the second season of Jujutsu Kaisen that aired in 2023, has been reimagined as a feature film, bringing its emotional depth and stunning animation to the big screen.
In their official statement, the Jujutsu Kaisen team did not hold back, emphasizing the severity of the situation and the legal ramifications for those involved in piracy. The full statement reads:
The illegally recorded images and video footage of the ending of the current screening of 'JUJUTSU KAISEN: Hidden Inventory / Premature Death – The Movie' has been found on the internet. Filming a movie inside a theater is a crime under the Law for Prevention of Unauthorized Recording of Films (Film Piracy Prevention Law). In addition, uploading such unauthorized recordings to platforms like X, YouTube, TikTok, or Facebook constitutes copyright infringement. If copyright infringement occurs in violation of the Film Piracy Prevention Law or the Copyright Act, penalties may include up to 10 years imprisonment, or a fine of up to 10 million yen, or both. To ensure everyone can enjoy the movie safely, we kindly ask you to refrain from any unauthorized recording, posting or sharing. Thank you for your cooperation.
The statement reflects Japan's stringent anti-piracy laws, which have been tightened in recent years to combat the growing issue of unauthorized distribution of entertainment content. Under the Japanese Copyright Law, as amended in 2024, penalties for copyright infringement can be severe, with individuals facing up to 10 years in prison, a fine of up to 10 million yen (approximately $65,000 USD), or both. Corporations involved in such violations could face fines as high as 300 million yen. These measures are part of a broader effort by Japan to protect its cultural exports, particularly anime and manga, which have seen a massive global surge in popularity.
The Jujutsu Kaisen franchise, created by Gege Akutami, has become a global phenomenon since its anime debut in 2020. The series, which follows the adventures of Yuji Itadori and his fellow sorcerers as they battle cursed spirits, has garnered critical acclaim and a massive following. Its second season, which concluded in December 2023, earned the prestigious "Anime of the Year" award at the 2024 Crunchyroll Anime Awards. JUJUTSU KAISEN: Hidden Inventory / Premature Death – The Movie marks the first theatrical release from the franchise since JUJUTSU KAISEN 0 in 2021, making the recent leaks all the more disappointing for the creators and fans alike.
The issue of piracy in the anime industry is not new, but it has become increasingly prevalent with the rise of digital platforms and the global demand for Japanese entertainment. Organizations like CODA (Content Overseas Distribution Association), supported by Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, have been working tirelessly to combat piracy, including international collaborations to shut down pirated content sites. However, the Jujutsu Kaisen team’s statement underscores a persistent challenge: the lack of accessible legal viewing options for international fans often drives them to seek out pirated content, especially when release schedules differ across regions.
North American Release Details for JUJUTSU KAISEN: Hidden Inventory / Premature Death – The Movie
For fans in North America eager to experience the film legally, there’s good news on the horizon. JUJUTSU KAISEN: Hidden Inventory / Premature Death – The Movie is set to hit theaters nationwide starting July 16, 2025, as announced by GKIDS Films. This release marks the first new content from the Jujutsu Kaisen franchise since the end of its second season, offering fans a chance to witness the beautifully animated story of Gojo and Geto’s past on the big screen. GKIDS, known for distributing critically acclaimed animated films, is partnering with local theaters to ensure a wide release, giving North American audiences the opportunity to enjoy the movie as intended—without spoilers or legal risks.
The North American release is expected to generate significant buzz, especially given the franchise’s dedicated fanbase and the emotional weight of the Hidden Inventory / Premature Death arc. Fans are encouraged to secure their tickets early and experience the film in theaters, supporting the creators and ensuring the continued growth of the anime industry.
As the Jujutsu Kaisen team continues to navigate the challenges of piracy, their message is clear: respect the art, support the creators, and enjoy the movie the way it was meant to be seen. With the North American release just around the corner, fans have a chance to do just that—legally and spoiler-free.
