In the constantly evolving world of anime, especially within the Shonen category, many fans found themselves wondering about its future. Yet, in the 2020s, MAPPA Studios emerged to deliver exceptional adaptations of dark shonen titles like Jujutsu Kaisen and Chainsaw Man. While JJK swiftly captured audiences, Chainsaw Man took its time, leaving viewers eagerly awaiting the cinematic experience that is Chainsaw Man – The Movie: Reze Arc.
Denji and the Girls: A Neverending Story
The Chainsaw Man: Reze Arc movie starts right after the events of the first season, diving into Denji’s next chapter without any recap. His heart is still tethered to Makima-san, but things take a turn when he meets a charming girl named Reze on a rainy day at a telephone booth. While he grapples with his feelings for both Makima and Reze, Denji’s life becomes a chaotic mix of love and devil hunting.
Oddball Characters Brilliantly Brought to Life
Not to forget, familiar faces like Aki and Power make brief appearances, but the focus is firmly on Denji and Reze. Their budding relationship adds depth to Denji’s character, offering viewers a mix of humor and emotional investment. This character arc serves as an ideal setup to showcase Denji’s growth through his experiences with romantic feelings.
MAPPA Goes All Out: Switching Up the Styles
MAPPA Studios faced criticism in the past for using CGI in Chainsaw Man‘s first season. However, with the Reze arc largely consisting of action, the decision to lean more on 2D animation proves effective here. The vivid animation, reminiscent of Jujutsu Kaisen‘s Shibuya arc, captivates throughout, especially during Denji’s dynamic battles against new devils like the Bomb Girl and the Typhoon.
The film seamlessly transitions from romantic moments to intense action, displaying stunning visuals and an energetic score by Kensuke Ushio that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. If you enjoy action-packed anime, you won’t be disappointed.
Verdict: Absolute Fujimoto Cinema!
This year has quickly become a monumental one for anime films, showcasing beloved franchises like Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle and now Chainsaw Man: The Movie – Reze Arc. Opting for a movie format allowed MAPPA to focus on quality storytelling and animation, making the wait worthwhile. The playful yet chaotic narrative captures Fujimoto’s signature style, providing a delightful viewing experience that doesn’t miss the mark.
While some may find the slice-of-life moments in Denji’s romantic journey less engaging, they set the foundation for his character development. The balance of humor, action, and emotional complexity makes the Bomb Girl arc a standout. With MAPPA’s superb execution, this cinematic adaptation is a triumph, drawing in both seasoned fans and newcomers alike.
Is Chainsaw Man – The Movie: Reze Arc worth the hype? Absolutely! If you’re a fan of anime or shonen in particular, this movie is an essential watch that could easily be deemed the anime film of the year. For an even broader adventure in the anime landscape, continue your exploration by visiting Moyens I/O.