Following its success on Netflix, the anime film “Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle” has strengthened its blockbuster status. The movie has broken box office records in Japan and generated strong pre-sales in South Korea.
Haruo Sotozaki directed the film, while studio Ufotable handled production. The movie brings the climactic “Infinity Castle” arc from Koyoharu Gotouge’s acclaimed manga to the big screen.
The story follows Tanjiro Kamado, his sister Nezuko and their allies. They face the elite demons of the Twelve Kizuki. The group must use their courage and skills to protect humanity.
Record-breaking performance in Japan
“Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle” arrived in Japan on July 18. It quickly became one of the country’s highest-grossing films.
According to Box Office Mojo, as cited by Fandomwire, the movie earned JPY 22.07 billion. That figure equals around USD 149 million.
The film reached that total in only 25 days. It therefore surpassed “One Piece Film: Red” as the fastest anime to reach the milestone.
Its domestic total later climbed to around JPY 24.70 billion. The film also recorded 17.7 million admissions.
Twisted Voxel reported that the result placed “Infinity Castle” sixth among Japan’s all-time box office hits.
Audiences have praised the film’s gripping story and striking Ufotable animation. Many viewers have also highlighted its emotional character moments.
The intense battles have attracted strong attention as well. Akaza’s backstory has also connected with audiences. These factors have encouraged some fans to watch the film more than once.
South Korean pre-sales soar
“Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle” has also generated strong interest in South Korea. The film had already recorded impressive pre-sales before its August 22 release.
By Friday, August 15, Korean audiences had bought 411,835 tickets. That figure represented 53.2% of all pre-sales.
The strong demand put the film on course to sell almost one million tickets before release. Exclusive premium screenings also promised to increase demand, The Korea Herald reported.
However, the release timing created controversy in South Korea. The film’s release followed the country’s Liberation Day celebrations on August 15.
Some critics raised concerns about historical sensitivities. They pointed to Tanjiro’s earrings, which they said resemble the Rising Sun flag.
Critics also highlighted the film’s Taisho-era setting. The period lasted from 1912 to 1926.
Another point of debate involves the Demon Slayer Corps’ teenage members. Some critics compare their role to wartime student soldiers.
Still, many South Korean viewers have separated entertainment from political concerns. The franchise’s first movie, “Mugen Train”, offers a similar example.
The film opened in South Korea in 2021. It attracted 2.2 million viewers despite facing similar criticism.
READ NEXT: Mr. Beast, Mark Rober lead #TeamWater drive for clean water access
