Universal Studios Hollywood is entering a new era, having recently unveiled its first large-scale anime takeover andJujutsu KaisenandOne Pieceare both included in the Fan Fest lineup. Fans can enjoy an exclusive film at the DreamWorks Theater, meet the Straw Hats, shop for merchandise, and enjoy themed snacks. This eventbrings beloved anime characters to life and immerses fans in interactive experiences, making it a must-visit destination for anime enthusiasts.
This collaboration with the two beloved franchises offers fans an exciting glimpse into what anime events could look like at this incredibly popular Hollywood destination. Running on select nights from April 28 to May 18, anime fans have the chance to experience this thrilling event,marking a significant milestone for anime’s growing influence in the mainstream. For now, the focus is onJujutsu KaisenandOne Piece, but another expansion is inevitable in the future.
Jujutsu Kaisen Comes to Life in the DreamWorks Theater
Yuji Itadori and His Friends Bring You Along in an Immersive Experience
The first look at Universal Studios’ Fan Fest includes footage from the short 4D film,Jujutsu Kaisen: Hunger of the Cursed. Fans follow Yuji Itadori, Megumi Fushiguro, and Nobara Kugisaki as theyengage in a high-stakes battleand occasionally break the fourth wall to address the audience.The short film remains true to each character’s personalityand is voiced in Japanese with English subtitles. Paired with appearances by Aoi Todo and Satoru Gojo, the short film appears entertaining and provides an unforgettable experience forJujutsu Kaisenfans.
Beyond the short 4D film, Universal provides enthusiasts with themed treats such as Yuji’s Chocolate Brownie, Sukuna Cursed Crunch, Nobara’s Strawberry Hammer Smash, and two flavors of Ten Shadows Churro. Along with Jujutsu Kaisen apparel, collectibles, and accessories,there’s something for everyone to enjoy. For both casual watchers and dedicated fans, Universal Studios offersJujutsu Kaisenfans a truly unique experience.
Universal Studios' Straw Hat Pirates Take To The Streets
Fans Get To Feel Like They’re Living in the Universe of One Piece
TheOne Piece: Grand Pirate Gatheringallows fans to meet, take photos, and interact with Luffy, Zoro, Usopp, Nami, and Sanji. The interactive photo opportunities and actors portraying the Straw Hats are impressive, making the experience memorable and giving the feeling of truly being with the crew. One of the best aspects is thatZoro can be spotted casually wandering offin the wrong direction. With sketch artists positioned throughout the park, fans can receive their very own “wanted” poster, allowing them to take home a one-of-a-kind memento.
To top off the experience, fans can enjoya feast at Sanji’s Galleryand sample a variety of foods, including Luffy’s Meat on a Bone, Franky’s Cola Barbacoa, and Nico Robin’s Tropical Iced Tea. They also offer sweet treats, including the Chopper Cupcake and Devil Fruit Concha. Aside from immersive meals, similar toJujutsu Kaisen, merchandise will be available for fans who want to treat themselves. Based on the first look at Universal’sOne PieceFan Fest, audiences will undeniablyget the chance to experience what it’s like to be part of the Straw Hats.
Universal Studios’ Fan Fest Is Just the Start of a New Era for Anime Fans
It’s No Secret That Anime Is Exploding in Popularity in Recent Years
For anime fans, Universal Studios Hollywood’s Fan Fest feels like a dream has been realized. It’s a major milestone for anime’s growing influence, and its inclusion at a major Hollywood destination is onlyproof of how far it has come in recent years. Anime is no longer just a niche interest; it has grown into a global sensation that continues to draw in a larger geater interest. This means that Universal’s Fan Fest is just the start of something bigger that will only continue to grow and gain traction in the coming years.
Including two major series in Fan Fest isan undeniable sign of anime’s growing momentum around the world,including within Hollywood. With fun and immersive experiences, Universal Studios Hollywood is opening the doors to more anime-themed experiences that fans can look forward to.Jujutsu KaisenandOne Pieceare the only ones to officially make it to Universal Studios Hollywood, but other series are sure to follow in the future.
Jujutsu Kaisen
Jujutsu Kaisenis a Japanese anime and manga series created by Gege Akutami. The story is set in a world where Cursed Spirits, born from negative human emotions, prey on humanity. It follows high school student Yuji Itadori as he becomes entangled in the world of Jujutsu Sorcery after swallowing a cursed talisman—Ryomen Sukuna’s finger—and becomes the host for one of the most powerful curses. Yuji joins the Tokyo Metropolitan Magic Technical College to learn how to combat curses while searching for the remaining fingers of Sukuna to exorcise him permanently.
One Piece
Created by Eiichiro Oda, One Piece is a multimedia franchise that began as a manga series and follows the adventures of the Straw Hat Pirates as led by Monkey D. Luffy. Luffy, an enthusiastic pirate with a thirst for adventure, is afflicted by a mysterious curse that gives him various powers he uses to protect himself and his friends. The manga eventually gave way to the anime series, with the two being some of history’s longest-running anime and manga series. Along with over fifty video games made over the years, the series entered the live-action world with Netflix’s 2023 adaptation.
