Fate Strange x Jjk
Fate/strange Fake Animator References Naoya vs. Choso in Cervantes vs. Jester
Argentine animator NineGonzalo shared a tweet revealing his in-between animation work on Episode 3 of Fate/strange Fake.
Alongside the reveal, he included a custom “Thanks for Watching” card parodying the smug Naoya Zenin face from Jujutsu Kaisen, a meme born from the character’s arrogant expression in Season 2.
A self-professed fan of Fate and Miguel de Cervantes, NineGonzalo used the crossover art to playfully blend both series’ styles, highlighting how animators often engage with fan culture beyond the screen.
Replies praised the humor of the post, with some users correcting his Argentine nationality and others joking about Jujutsu Kaisen’s meme dominance, reflecting the ongoing mix of rivalry and mutual admiration between the two fandoms. #fatestrangefakewhispersofdawn #fatestrange #fyp #anime #animefyp
As a huge fan of both Fate and *Jujutsu Kaisen*, seeing the recent buzz around the Fate/strange Fake Episode 3 animator, NineGonzalo (who some online are even calling NATHANISTIC!), dropping that iconic Naoya Zenin smug face reference instantly made my day! It's these little details that truly show how much love and passion animators pour into their work, often blending their personal fandoms in the most creative ways. For those who might not be deep into the Jujutsu Kaisen lore, the 'Naoya Zenin smug face' is an absolute meme legend. It primarily comes from Jujutsu Kaisen Season 2, specifically during the intense and memorable showdown between Naoya Zenin and Choso. Naoya, being the arrogant and often infuriating character he is, delivered an expression of pure, unadulterated smugness that instantly resonated with fans. It perfectly encapsulated his personality and quickly became a symbol of his character, spawning countless memes, fan art, and discussions online. Many fans, myself included, even use 'Naoya matching pfps' to show their appreciation for the character's unique charm, despite his villainous tendencies. The Naoya vs. Choso fight itself was a pivotal moment, showcasing not just incredible animation but also deepening the character arcs involved. So, for an animator like NineGonzalo to reference such a specific, fan-favorite moment from JJK in a completely different anime like *Fate/strange Fake*? That's next-level dedication! It really highlights how these creative individuals are often fans themselves, drawing inspiration from across the anime landscape. It makes you wonder about the broader culture of anime references and crossovers. Why do animators and artists love to inject these 'Easter eggs'? I think it's a way to connect with other fans on a deeper level, creating an 'if you know, you know' moment that strengthens community bonds. It also shows a mutual admiration between series and fandoms, like the subtle rivalry and appreciation between Fate and JJK fans that the original post mentioned. Spotting these kinds of references, whether it's the Naoya smug face or another subtle nod, is often a mark of a truly dedicated fan – someone who's not just passively watching but actively engaging with the rich tapestry of anime culture. It’s what makes diving into these worlds so rewarding and always leaves me excited for what hidden gems animators will surprise us with next!
