Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle is a terrifyingly powerful adaptation, and Akaza’s Return is a strong start to the trilogy. The series doesn’t just return home with a quiet greeting; it throws the door wide open and makes a dramatic entrance. Ufotable has proven itself to be an animation powerhouse, but this movie takes it to another level.
From the flashbacks to the intense, gore-filled battles, there isn’t a moment to be bored with Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle. I’m still processing everything, especially the jaw-dropping and tear-jerking moments. That isn’t to say there aren’t any flaws, so let’s dive in.
Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle’s Pace Suffers from the Time Limit
We knew that Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle would pick up from the fourth season’s ending, after Muzan successfully trapped the corps in his lair. You experience the same panic and surprise you felt when it was first shown, but it’s not long until the first battle ensues: Shinobu vs. Douma.
While I loved the battle immensely and I am grieving Shinobu, this is where the cracks in the movie’s format are exposed. The television adaptation might have the gift of time, but movies don’t have the same privilege. Nearly every strike was interrupted by a flashback, either from Shinobu’s past or Douma’s. I always appreciate context, but the same formula was repeated in the other two major battles.
The second major battle, Zenitsu vs. Kaigaku, followed the same pattern. The memory of their old master was vital, but it cut the momentum of their great showdown. This happened again with Akaza vs. Giyuu and Tanjiro. After the demon’s tragic past was exposed, and we went back to the present, I admittedly forgot that a battle was even happening.
Despite the pacing being all over the place, I can ultimately forgive Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle for the onslaught of flashbacks. Every scene was worth the tears I shed. From Kanao witnessing Shinobu’s death to Akaza committing suicide, the stories were rich and emotional. It added to the high stakes, even if it did disrupt the flow.
Ufotable Pulled Out All the Stops for Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle
As expected, the animation was nothing short of stunning. Every frame was vibrant and fluid. There isn’t a moment where the quality drops, and your eyes aren’t treated to the best visuals in anime history. That’s another reason why the battles, although disrupted by the flashbacks, still kept me engaged.
Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle reminds you that your favorite characters are back, but not safe. Shinobu is a beloved character, but this movie focuses on the human behind the slayer and how easy it is to break. Her death was felt throughout the story.
Moreover, Akaza might be the enemy, but his story was a much-needed reminder that they were once human, too. The credit must also go to their voice actors, who elevate the emotions. Even the small comedic moments were perfectly timed and natural.
One underrated aspect of Demon Slayer is the sound design. Hearing Akaza’s theme again was nostalgic and also epic in the context of Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle. The subtle sound of Nakime’s biwa invokes terror in you, a simple yet effective tactic.
Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle Is Predictable Yet a Tragic Masterpiece
Overall, this is a solid first instalment to the Infinity Castle Arc. It might sacrifice the pacing and would’ve done better as a television series, but seeing it in a theatre does offer a new experience. There’s something different about watching it with fans that does enhance it. It’s a movie you can watch multiple times.
As for the plot, it’s rather predictable. It’s a classic Shonen formula, with incredible battles and hyped power upgrades that send a chill down your spine, but there’s nothing new about it. However, I won’t pretend as if I wasn’t in awe and cried. Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle is flawed, but it’s a masterpiece of animation and storytelling. So, what are our thoughts on Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle?
Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle will be released in theatres on September 12, 2025.
