Koyoharu Gotouge’s Kimetsu no Yaiba (Demon Slayer) made its subtle debut in 2016, but quickly carved its niche as a standout in modern shonen anime. Its anime adaptation by Ufotable Studios marked a pivotal moment in anime history, delivering unrivaled animation quality that captivated audiences and continues to impress today. Over the past seven years, Demon Slayer has bridged generations, becoming a beloved gateway to anime for many Gen Z viewers.
Though the manga wrapped up in just four years, the anime has persisted and is now gearing up for its thrilling conclusion. Ufotable has opted for an unconventional approach, choosing to adapt the final arcs as a trilogy rather than a typical final season. After much anticipation, I experienced the premiere of the first chapter, Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – Infinity Castle, in my city, and here’s my take on how this trilogy launches.
Demon Slayer Shifts Gears Towards the Endgame
While the fourth season of Demon Slayer may have felt prolonged, it effectively set the stage for the ultimate clash between the Hashiras and the Upper Moon demons. The Infinity Castle Chapter 1 movie dives straight into the tumultuous chaos within the mesmerizing Infinity Castle, leaving no time for additional setup.
We indeed find ourselves at the endgame of the Demon Slayer saga. The Hashiras aim to take down the Upper Moons, specifically their leader Muzan Kibutsuji, after previous attempts led to their entrapment in the Infinity Castle. The first chapter of the trilogy not only propels us right into the action but also unveils eagerly awaited flashbacks for both the Hashiras and the Upper Moon demons.
The Clash of the Titans Begins
The long-awaited confrontation between the Hashiras and the formidable Upper Moons unfolds in this first chapter. Although showcasing all battles in just one installment is a challenge, main characters like Tanjiro, Giyu, Zenitsu, and Shinobu find themselves at the forefront, clashing with their respective demonic adversaries—Akaza, Kaigaku, and Doma.
The voice acting has always been a strength in Demon Slayer, and in this installment, the cast truly surpasses expectations. Natsuki Hanae (Tanjiro), Hiro Shimono (Zenitsu), and Akira Ishida (Akaza) bring an extraordinary intensity to their roles, while newcomers Yuichi Nakamura (Keizo) and Lynn (Koyuki) make memorable debuts.
Ufotable Showcases a Masterclass in Animation Once Again
Ufotable consistently impresses with its animation quality, and the first part of the Infinity Castle trilogy is no exception. From the mesmerizing Infinity Castle to the breathtaking Hashira breathing techniques and the menacing Blood Demon Arts of the Upper Moons, every frame is crafted with care and precision.
Battle sequences are unmatched, keeping audiences captivated and anxious about the fates of their favorite characters. The seamless blending of 2D and 3D animations creates a visually stunning experience. Even if you’re familiar with the manga, I highly recommend watching the anime, as Ufotable’s visuals turn every clash into a mesmerizing spectacle. Yuki Kajiura’s evocative soundtrack further enhances the intensity of battles and emotional moments.
Verdict: Blockbuster Anime of the Year, Even With Its Shortcomings
As a fan since the series’ anime debut in 2019, I recognize that storytelling isn’t always its greatest strength. However, Demon Slayer excels in character depth and its exhilarating battles. The Infinity Castle movie starts strong, even though it falters due to repetitive expositions and intrusive flashbacks that disrupt the flow of the action.
Pacing issues are evident, as these flashbacks often happen at critical moments. Koyoharu Gotouge’s narrative structure might be more effective in episodic format, while in a movie setting, frequent interruptions can dilute the adrenaline rush of battles. While some flashbacks felt underdeveloped, a notable one in the latter half resonated deeply.
Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – Infinity Castle has garnered immense anticipation for 2025 and largely fulfills expectations. Flaws in pacing aside, it delivers outstanding combat scenes, unexpected twists, and exquisite animation, securing its place as a blockbuster anime of the year.
If you’re a fan of the Demon Slayer series, this visual spectacle is a must-see on the big screen. I wholeheartedly encourage you to watch it in theaters and soak in the collective excitement with fellow fans. As we eagerly await the remaining chapters of the Infinity Castle trilogy, I invite you to share your thoughts on this first installment in the comments below.
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