"Demon Slayer" film sets Japan opening 3-day box-office record
The latest film, "Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba 'Infinity Castle -- Part 1: Akaza Returns'" drew 3.84 million visitors, hitting 5.52 billion yen ($37 million) in box-office revenue over the three-day period from Friday, Aniplex Inc. said.
The subsidiary of Sony Music Entertainment (Japan) Inc. added the film earned 1.64 billion yen on its first day, 1.84 billion on the second, and 2.04 billion on the third, making it the highest-grossing movie ever released in Japan on an opening day.
Sunday marked the highest single-day box-office revenue on record. In the four days through Monday, total revenue topped 7.32 billion yen, according to Aniplex.
The manga title, serialized in the Weekly Shonen Jump from 2016 to 2020, tells the story of Tanjiro Kamado, an adolescent boy who battles human-eating demons while searching for a cure for his sister, who has turned into a demon.
The previous animated work based on the series, released in 2020, became the first film in Japan to surpass 40 billion yen in box-office revenue.
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Japan Times
3 days ago
- Japan Times
‘Demon Slayer' movie slashes its own box office records
A "Demon Slayer" movie has slayed the box office again. 'Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle,' the latest chapter in the ongoing anime adaptation of the hit manga by Koyoharu Gotoge, opened July 18 and, by the end of the holiday weekend, had set multiple Japanese box office records: best opening day (¥1.64 billion), best single day (just over ¥2 billion) and best three-day opening (¥5.52 billion). According to Toho, which distributed the film alongside Aniplex, "Infinity Castle" brought in a total of ¥7.31 billion from 5.16 million admissions over its first four days, including Monday's Marine Day national holiday. For comparison, the year's highest-grossing film, "Detective Conan: One-Eyed Flashback" has made a total of ¥14.47 billion since April 18, and the year's top live-action film, surprise hit "Kokuho," has earned a total ¥6.8 billion after six weeks in theaters. If you're feeling deja vu, it might be because the last film to set records like this was another "Demon Slayer" flick . Back in October 2020, "Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – The Movie: Mugen Train" set the same box office records its successor just broke and went on to become Japan's highest-grossing film of all time with ¥40.43 billion. The smash success of that film was attributed at least partially to the circumstances of its release. The COVID-19 pandemic which started that spring led to theater closings and delayed releases, so moviegoers — primed by watching the 2019 "Demon Slayer" series on streaming while cooped up at home — were ready to flood into theaters for "Mugen Train," released just as pandemic restrictions were eased in Japan in the fall. The massive opening weekend of "Infinity Castle," however, shows that "Mugen Train" was no fluke. Even five years after Gotoge's manga came to a close, the story of the Demon Slayer Corps and its battle against the forces of darkness still has its grip on Japan. I contributed my own tiny slice of the film's record box office winnings on July 19, braving the crowds for an afternoon screening at a Shinjuku multiplex. Waiting in line for concessions for a solid 20 minutes, I had time to gawk at the digital signs indicating 40 "Infinity Castle" screenings on a single day, most of which were sold out or close to it (nationwide, the film opened on a total of 443 screens). 'Infinity Castle' is the first in a planned trilogy set to wrap the anime adaptation of the manga. It follows protagonist Tanjiro (voiced by Natsuki Hanae) and his fellow demon slayers as they fight the most powerful demon disciples of big bad Muzan Kibutsuji (Toshihiko Seki) in his titular Infinity Castle. The biggest highlight is the battle between Tanjiro and the demon Akaza, who killed Tanjiro's mentor Rengoku in "Mugen Train." If you've seen any of the "Demon Slayer" anime, all animated at studio Ufotable and directed by Haruo Sotozaki, there are no surprises here. Like what's come before, it's a uniformly well-animated, almost painfully faithful adaptation of the manga, with Tanjiro and pals dutifully narrating everything that happens on screen whether the audience needs it or not. The key difference between this film and "Mugen Train" is its 155-minute runtime — infinity indeed. After nearly three hours of demon slaying with no real beginning or end (remember, there are two more films on the way), I felt exhausted and suspect the story will fare better when it's inevitably cut into bite-size chunks for broadcast, the same way "Mugen Train" was a year after its cinema release. But critical analysis of "Infinity Castle" seems almost pointless. Repeat viewings aside, 5.16 million admissions means about 4% of the population of Japan has already seen the film, making "Demon Slayer" less film than phenomenon, a rare point of cultural unity in an era of fractured pop culture consumption. And, quality aside, it will be a real lifeline for cinemas: In 2024, admissions in Japan fell 7.1% compared to 2023 and are still below prepandemic levels. "Infinity Castle" will begin its trek around the world next month with releases in several countries around Asia before hitting North America and Europe in September. Though it's not quite day-and-date parity, the two-month gap between the Japanese and Western releases (for comparison, "Mugen Train" took six months) signals the growing demand for anime outside Japan as well as tighter market integration: In 2021, Sony bought Crunchyroll, which is distributing the film worldwide. As 'Infinity Castle' slashes its way around the world, we'll see whether international audiences are still as enthusiastic about "Demon Slayer" as those in Japan. 'Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle' is showing in cinemas around Japan starting from July 18. For more information, visit (Japanese only), or for international releases visit
Kyodo News
4 days ago
- Kyodo News
"Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle" Double Theme Song by Aimer and LiSA, Single CDs Released!
Blockbuster movie "Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle" has released single CDs for its two theme songs, performed by Aimer and LiSA! This announcement was accompanied by comments from both artists, as well as messages from Go Shiina and Yuki Kajiura, who were responsible for the music production. Furthermore, it has been revealed that the music videos for both songs will premiere on the official YouTube channel. CD Release Confirmed for Two Theme Songs! "Demon Slayer," a manga from Koyoharu Gotouge and published by Shueisha's Jump Comics, has sold over 220 million copies of volumes 1-23. The anime adaptation is produced by ufotable. Its newest installment, the movie "Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle" premiered in Japan on Friday, July 18. Now, the movie's two theme songs has been released as single CDs on Wednesday, July 23 (Japan Time)! Aimer and LiSA, both of whom have previously performed theme songs for the "Demon Slayer" anime, are responsible for these new tracks. Aimer's "A World Where the Sun Never Rises" features lyrics by Hikaru Kondo, the general producer of the "Demon Slayer" anime at ufotable. Go Shiina, who composed the background music for the anime, handled the music and arrangement. This majestic theme combines a rich, grand orchestra with Aimer's powerful vocals. Meanwhile, LiSA's "Shine in the Cruel Night" was composed and written by Yuki Kajiura, also known for her background music in the "Demon Slayer" anime. This powerful track, another collaboration between LiSA and Yuki Kajiura, creates a grand and dynamic world view, echoing their previous successful theme songs for the series. Artist and creator comments were released alongside the singles. Comments from Artists and Creators Aimer's Comment: This song was lovingly entrusted to me by Go Shiina-san and Hikaru Kondo-san, who have been deeply involved with the anime "Demon Slayer." I sang with my own "total concentration," hoping my song could support the destiny of those who transform their individual sorrows into strength as they leap into the final phase. I hope this song reaches you, who are still fighting in a "world where the sun never rises." Go Shiina's Comment: This song came to life with the invaluable support of many, led by Aimer-san, and including lyricists, arrangers, performers, engineers, and staff. Witnessing Aimer-san's deeply emotional vocal recording alongside the visuals ignited my fighting spirit, compelling me to share this song without delay. Immerse yourself in Aimer-san's multifaceted voice, featuring up to 12 vocal layers. Her range, from the lowest to the highest notes, offers a kaleidoscope of expression. Additionally, I hope you enjoy discovering the various "Demon Slayer" themes woven throughout the song. LiSA's Comment: I am on my way to "Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle" alongside Yuki Kajiura-san, who has graced us with numerous songs for "Demon Slayer." To everyone who is fighting: I sang with prayers and wishes. This is "Shine in the Cruel Night." Yuki Kajiura's Comment: It is a profound honor to have co-created the theme song for "Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle" with LiSA-san. Given how deeply this song is connected to the story, we worked meticulously to ensure its alignment with the narrative while also crafting a piece that LiSA-san could deliver with immense power and emotion. My hope is that this music will both enrich the story and, as a song performed by LiSA-san, uplift your spirits." Music Videos for Two Theme Songs Set to Premiere on YouTube! Music videos for two theme songs are scheduled to premiere on YouTube in the evening of Thursday, July 24th! Moreover, leading up to these MV releases, a special event titled "Demon Slayer Anime Theme Songs MV Marathon" has been announced! This event, featuring a back-to-back showcase of music videos from past Demon Slayer series theme songs, will be held on YouTube starting at 7 PM (JST) on Thursday, July 24th. Aimer: " A World Where the Sun Never Rises" MUSIC VIDEO *Premiering around 7:45 PM (JST) on 7/24 (Thu) LiSA: "Shine in the Cruel Night" MUSIC VIDEO *Premiering around 7:50 PM (JST) on 7/24 (Thu) "Demon Slayer Anime Theme Songs MV Marathon" *Starting at 7:00 PM (JST) on 7/24 (Thu) Product Information The single CDs featuring the main theme songs will be released simultaneously on Wednesday, July 23rd (Japan Time)! The Limited Edition for both singles come with a mini poster featuring exclusive "Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle" artwork and are packaged in a three-sided case! Aimer's single "A World Where the Sun Never Rises" comes in a three-sided case with newly drawn artwork of the character "Shinobu Kocho," while LiSA's single "Shine in the Cruel Night" features exclusive artwork of "Giyu Tomioka." Both limited editions are luxurious packages that include a Blu-ray Disc containing the music video for each theme song. Release Information Aimer Single "A World Where the Sun Never Rises" Release Information Title: A World Where the Sun Never Rises Release Date: Wednesday, July 23, 2025 (Japan Time) Purchase CD Here "A World Where the Sun Never Rises" Now available for download and streaming on various digital platforms! Release Formats and Prices: • Limited Edition (CD+Blu-ray) / VVCL 2751-2752: ¥1,760 (tax included) Includes a mini poster featuring original anime artwork & comes in a three-sided case [CD Content] *The CD content is the same for both Limited and Regular editions. 01. A World Where the Sun Never Rises (Lyrics: Hikaru Kondo (ufotable), Music: Go Shiina, Arrangement: Go Shiina, Sachiko Miyano) 02. A World Where the Sun Never Rises -Instrumental- [Blu-ray Content] "A World Where the Sun Never Rises" Music Video • Regular Edition (CD only) / VVCL 2750: ¥1,430 (tax included) LiSA Single "Shine in the Cruel Night" Release Information Title: Shine in the Cruel Night Release Date: Wednesday, July 23, 2025 (Japan Time) Purchase CD Here "Shine in the Cruel Night" Now available for download and streaming on various digital platforms! Release Formats and Prices: • Limited Edition (CD+Blu-ray) / VVCL 2754-2755: ¥1,760 (tax included) Includes a mini poster featuring original anime artwork & comes in a three-sided case [CD Content] *The CD content is the same for both Limited and Regular editions. 01. Shine in the Cruel Night (Lyrics: Yuki Kajiura, Music: Yuki Kajiura, Arrangement: Yuki Kajiura) 02. Shine in the Cruel Night -Instrumental- [Blu-ray Content] "Shine in the Cruel Night" Music Video • Regular Edition (CD only) / VVCL 2753: ¥1,430 (tax included) About "Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle" Synopsis Tanjiro Kamado – a boy who joined an organization dedicated to hunting down demons called the Demon Slayer Corps after his younger sister Nezuko was turned into a demon. While growing stronger and deepening his friendships and bonds with fellow corps members, Tanjiro has battled many demons with his comrades, Zenitsu Agatsuma and Inosuke Hashibira. Along the way, his journey has led him to fight alongside the Demon Slayer Corps' highest-ranking swordsmen, the Hashira, including Flame Hashira Kyojuro Rengoku aboard the Mugen Train, Sound Hashira Tengen Uzui within the Entertainment District, as well as Mist Hashira Muichiro Tokito and Love Hashira Mitsuri Kanroji at the Swordsmith Village. As the Demon Slayer Corps members and Hashira engaged in a group strength training program, the Hashira Training, in preparation for the forthcoming battle against the demons, Muzan Kibutsuji appears at the Ubuyashiki Mansion. With the head of the Demon Corps in danger, Tanjiro and the Hashira rush to the headquarters but are plunged into a deep descent to a mysterious space by the hands of Muzan Kibutsuji. The destination of where Tanjiro and Demon Slayer Corps have fallen is the demons' stronghold – the Infinity Castle. And so, the battleground is set as the final battle between the Demon Slayer Corps and the Demons ignites. Cast Tanjiro Kamado: Natsuki Hanae Nezuko Kamado: Akari Kito Zenitsu Agatsuma: Hiro Shimono Inosuke Hashibira: Yoshitsugu Matsuoka Kanao Tsuyuri: Reina Ueda Genya Shinazugawa: Nobuhiko Okamoto Giyu Tomioka: Takahiro Sakurai Tengen Uzui: Katsuyuki Konishi Muichiro Tokito: Kengo Kawanishi Shinobu Kocho: Saori Hayami Mitsuri Kanroji: Kana Hanazawa Obanai Iguro: Kenichi Suzumura Sanemi Shinazugawa: Tomokazu Seki Gyomei Himejima: Tomokazu Sugita Akaza (Upper Rank Three): Akira Ishida ©Koyoharu Gotoge / SHUEISHA, Aniplex, ufotable ※Some parts of this text have been translated using machine translation
Yomiuri Shimbun
5 days ago
- Yomiuri Shimbun
New ‘Demon Slayer' Film Breaks Records in Japan with ¥5.5 Billion Box Office Revenue, 3.84 Million Viewers in 1st 3 Days
The latest animated film adaptation of the popular manga series 'Kimetsu no Yaiba' ('Demon Slayer') drew about 3.84 million moviegoers during its first three days since its theatrical release on Friday, setting a new box office revenue record of about ¥5.52 billion, according to its distributor Aniplex Inc. and others. The new film, 'Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba The Movie: Infinity Castle,' is the first part of a trilogy and surpassed the record of the series' previous animated film, 'Demon Slayer — Kimetsu no Yaiba — The Movie: Mugen Train,' which was released in theaters in October 2020 and went on to become a big hit, grossing over ¥40 billion domestically. About 5.16 million people went to see the new film in the first four days, raising the box office revenue to about ¥7.31 billion. The series tells the story of a boy who battles demons that killed his family in a bid to turn his sister, who became a demon, back into a human. The films are based on the manga 'Kimetsu no Yaiba' by Koyoharu Gotoge. To date, more than 220 million copies of the manga have been sold, including digital editions.
