The first “Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle” movie delivers an emotional rollercoaster of laughter, heartbreak and anticipation for what comes next in the final two films. That blend of emotions is a big part of why the franchise stands out. It offers more than just flashy battles or breathtaking animation — it resonates because it makes audiences feel deeply connected to the story.
That connection matters here at Las Positas, too. Watching Tanjiro Kamado and the other demon slayers fight is more than escapism. Their story mirrors the personal battles students face every day. From exams to balancing jobs or even struggles unseen, students know what it means to keep fighting. Tanjiro never gives up — and neither should we.
The demon slayers also find family in one another. That chosen bond carries them through their darkest moments. In a similar way, students find belonging through classes, clubs and friendships on campus. Both are proof that no one wins their battles alone.
The film, which earned more than $33 million on opening day, shows why the series is so successful. This set a new record for the highest premiere earnings for an anime film in North America. Not everyone was impressed, however.
Imagine Games Network (IGN) rated the film a 6 out of 10, saying it, “features horrendous pacing that suffers from an overuse of flashbacks which cut the dramatic tension, as well as a clearly incomplete story that never fully justifies being a feature film.” But backstory is what makes “Demon Slayer” so powerful. Without knowing what drives its characters, their victories and losses would feel trivial.
By exploring where heroes and villains come from, the story gives weight to their choices and outcomes. And calling the first film in a trilogy incomplete is ludicrous. There are two more feature-length films coming out in the next few years that will close out the story.
Another common critique is that “Demon Slayer” is simple. I agree — wholeheartedly. At its core, it’s a story about human willpower, courage and family. But simplicity does not equal weakness. It allows the narrative to focus on emotions that resonate. We know who the heroes are. We know what they fight for. That clarity makes the battles hit harder. “Demon Slayer” thrives because of its simplicity.
The series doesn’t need crazy twists for shock value or endless layers of lore to succeed. Its strength lies in how it makes viewers care about its characters and their struggles. The animation from studio Ufotable pushes the franchise forward, but it is the story’s emotional core that lingers.
The music in “Demon Slayer” is another reason the movie is memorable. The music isn’t just noise produced by composers Go Shiina and Yuki Kajiura. It’s a soundscape that hits as hard as the animation. Strings rise and fall to capture the more emotional moments. Vocals sound off in just the right moments to heighten tension. And the drums pound the loudest of all, driving intensity into the action.
In Akaza’s action sequences every beat resonates with his anger throughout the castle. The way the camera tracks every punch, and the drums come in a beat later, makes one feel every hit. That perfect merge of animation and sound pulls the audience deeper into the moment. It isn’t just background music supporting a story, it’s a part of why the story resonates.
What makes “Demon Slayer” stand out is how every piece, from animation and music to its simple story with complex characters, everything works together with intention. All of these different elements combine together to create a lasting impact that stays with the audience well after the credits roll.
But life isn’t wrapped up after the credits, however, our journey continues. College isn’t wrapped up in one semester. Goals take time. Progress comes with setbacks. Like Tanjiro, students move forward. “Demon Slayer” may take place in a world of demons and castles. But its message matters right here in the classroom: never give up, rely on your community and face your battles with courage.
That is why it is not just a good movie, or just a meaningless rating from critics. “Demon Slayer” is a celebration of perseverance and family.
***
TOP ILLUSTRATION: Official poster for the movie “Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle.” The second movie of the franchise of the series hit theaters Sep. 12.
Andrew Branham is a staff writer for The Express.
