(Credit: fandango.com)
When it comes to modern anime films, few series have captured global attention like Demon Slayer. With its explosive fight choreography, rich character arcs, and unmatched visual spectacle, the franchise has already cemented itself as a household name. Now, with the release of Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle, fans finally get to witness one of the most anticipated story arcs come to life on the big screen, and it does not disappoint.
Let’s get this out of the way: Infinity Castle is one of the most vibrant anime movies I’ve ever seen. Ufotable continues to push animation boundaries with dizzying camera spins, jaw-dropping fight sequences, and colors that feel like they’re leaping right off the screen. The shifting, twisting landscapes of the castle itself serve as a perfect playground for spectacle, creating a battleground that feels alive and menacing at every turn. Gamers who love flashy visuals and anime fans hungry for jaw-dropping set pieces will find themselves glued to the screen from start to finish.
One of the film’s strongest points is its focus on comradery. The bond between the Hashira and the other Demon Slayer Corps members is on full display, making even the quieter moments shine. Instead of keeping the spotlight glued solely to the “big guns,” the movie smartly highlights the contributions of Hashira hopefuls. These fresh faces not only add new energy but also remind us that the Corps is bigger than its most famous swordsmen. It’s a refreshing choice that adds depth and gives fans more characters to root for.
That said, Infinity Castle isn’t flawless. The English dub and subtitles are serviceable, but the translations can feel oddly redundant at times. It’s not a deal-breaker, but it does make certain scenes feel clunkier than they should. The bigger issue comes in the final act. While the setup is thrilling and the early battles feel perfectly paced, the climax lingers longer than it should. Some of the storytelling magic is lost in the drawn-out execution and ultimately left me wondering how much longer I would be in the theater rather than immersed in flashy demon slashing. The biggest head-scratcher for me, however, was the villains’ questionable objective. If Muzan’s plan was to trap the Hashira in the Infinity Castle, why not simply leave them there forever? And, more importantly, who’s protecting the real world while the Corps’ strongest warriors are locked away? Admittedly, I am not completely caught up on the previous Demon Slayer season so maybe I just missed something but this plot point left me wondering. It’s clear this trilogy has more to say, so for now, I’m absolutely giving the Infinity Castle story the benefit of the doubt.
Even with those narrative bumps, Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle is rewriting anime history at the box office. It has already dethroned Pokémon: The First Movie as the highest-grossing anime film in theaters, a massive achievement that speaks volumes about the franchise’s cultural impact.
Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle may not be perfect, but it’s an experience no fan should miss. Its breathtaking visuals, heartfelt moments of unity, and sheer spectacle more than make up for the pacing stumbles and lingering questions.
If you’re a Demon Slayer fan, seeing this film in theaters isn’t just recommended, it’s essential. And with this being the first part of a trilogy, excitement is already building for what comes next.