As the saying goes, ‘records are meant to be broken,’ and that is precisely what happened with the release of Kimetsu no Yaiba: Mugen Train.
The animated film based on the popular manga series by Koyoharu Gotouge shattered box office records worldwide, becoming the highest-grossing anime and Japanese film of all time. It has even become the 4th highest-grossing traditional animated film globally, surpassing classics such as The Lion King and Frozen.
The success of Mugen Train can be attributed to various factors, including its engaging plot, well-developed characters, and stunning animation. The movie follows Tanjiro, Zenitsu, Inosuke, and Nezuko as they embark on a mission to assist Flame Hashira Kyojuro Rengoku in eliminating Enmu aboard the Infinity Train.
With highly positive reviews for its music, characters, and action sequences, Mugen Train has captivated audiences worldwide, making it a cultural phenomenon and significantly impacting the anime industry.
Key Takeaways
- “Kimetsu no Yaiba: The Movie – Mugen Train” broke numerous box-office records and grossed over US$506.5 million worldwide.
- It is the first Japanese and anime film to reach the US$500 million worldwide box office milestone and the highest-grossing anime and Japanese film of all time.
- The movie received highly positive reviews for its music, characters, and action sequences, with an approval rating of 98% on Rotten Tomatoes.
- It was submitted for the Best Animated Feature Film category at the 93rd Academy Awards and is the second highest-grossing animated film distributed by Sony.
Premiere and Release
The much-anticipated anime film, Kimetsu no Yaiba: The Movie – Mugen Train, premiered in October 2020 and quickly became a box office sensation, breaking numerous records and solidifying its place as one of the most successful anime films ever. Its impact on the anime industry cannot be overstated, as it proved that anime films can be just as successful as their live-action counterparts.
The film’s success was not limited to Japan, as it grossed over US$506.5 million worldwide, becoming the first Japanese and anime film to reach the US$500 million milestone. It also became the highest-grossing anime and Japanese film of all time, and the fourth-highest-grossing traditional animated film of all time.
Furthermore, it was submitted for the Best Animated Feature Film category at the 93rd Academy Awards, showcasing its critical acclaim and commercial success.
Kimetsu no Yaiba: The Movie – Mugen Train’s box office success and impact on the anime industry cannot be ignored, solidifying its place in anime history.
Plot Summary
Boarding the Infinity Train, Tanjiro, Zenitsu, Inosuke, and Nezuko team up with Flame Hashira Kyojuro Rengoku to battle Enmu, who uses his powers to invade the dreams of demon slayers and destroy their spiritual cores. Enmu’s plan involves instructing four passengers to enter the demon slayers’ dreams and manipulate them into destroying their spiritual cores, rendering them powerless against the demons.
However, Tanjiro and his companions have happy dreams, with Tanjiro realizing that he is dreaming and trying to wake up. As Nezuko awakens the passengers, they mistakenly attack Tanjiro in fear of Enmu. In the ensuing battle, Tanjiro beheads Enmu, but Upper-Rank Three, Akaza, attacks the demon slayers and fatally wounds Kyojuro.
Akaza is forced to flee when the sun rises, leaving the demon slayers to mourn the loss of Kyojuro and their victory against Enmu’s plan to defeat them. The movie’s plot is emotionally intense and exciting, with the addition of new characters and higher stakes that elevate the story of the Demon Slayer franchise.
Reception and Achievements
Achieving global success, Kimetsu no Yaiba: The Movie – Mugen Train has broken numerous box-office records and has become the highest-grossing anime and Japanese film of all time, grossing over US$506.5 million worldwide. It is the first Japanese and anime film to reach the US$500 million worldwide box-office milestone and the fourth highest-grossing traditional animated film.
Additionally, it is the 12th highest-grossing foreign language film overall and the 2nd highest-grossing foreign language film of all time without any Chinese-related content. The movie also holds the record for being the highest-grossing R-rated film of 2020 and the highest-grossing animated film of all time, distributed by Sony.
Regarding critical response, the movie has received highly positive reviews for its music, characters, and action sequences, with an approval rating of 98% on Rotten Tomatoes. It has been praised for its emotional depth and storytelling, as well as its stunning visuals and animation.
The movie’s success has also brought attention to the Kimetsu no Yaiba franchise as a whole, with fans eagerly anticipating the release of the anime adaptation’s second season.
Overall, Kimetsu no Yaiba: The Movie – Mugen Train has cemented itself as a cultural phenomenon and a testament to the enduring popularity of the anime and manga industry both in Japan and worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of Rengoku Volume 0 and how can it be obtained?
Rengoku Volume 0 is a manga prequel to the film, focusing on Kyojuro Rengoku’s backstory and relationship with his family. It was exclusively available to attendees of the Mugen Train screenings in Japan. It is not currently available for purchase or streaming.
Were there any controversies or criticisms surrounding the film’s plot or themes?
The film did not receive major controversies or criticisms surrounding its plot or themes. Fan reactions were overwhelmingly positive, leading to cultural impact, breaking box office records, and submitting for an Academy Award.
How does the film fit into the overall narrative of the Kimetsu no Yaiba anime series?
Kimetsu no Yaiba: Mugen Train fits into the overall narrative of the Demon Slayer anime series as a direct continuation of season one. The film explores the Demon Slayer’s timeline and genre, as Tanjiro and his companions face new challenges and enemies in their quest to defeat demons and protect humanity.
What was the process of adapting the film from its original manga source material?
Adapting Kimetsu no Yaiba: Mugen Train from its original manga source material presented several challenges, including condensing a lengthy arc into a feature film and making creative decisions to enhance the cinematic experience.
How did the COVID-19 pandemic impact the film’s production and distribution?
Production challenges due to COVID-19 impacted the film’s release date and promotional events. Distribution strategies were adjusted to prioritize safety measures, resulting in limited theater screenings and increased focus on streaming options.
