What's happened
The latest ‘Demon Slayer’ film, part of a trilogy, debuted with $70 million in North America, setting a new record for anime openings. It contributed to a global total of nearly $178 million, highlighting anime's expanding international appeal amid strong box office performances for other films this weekend.
What's behind the headline?
The film’s record-breaking debut signifies a significant shift in the global anime market, with ‘Demon Slayer’ leading the charge. Its success is driven by several factors: the franchise’s established fan base, high-quality animation from Ufotable, effective international distribution, and the growing appetite for anime content worldwide. This weekend’s results also highlight the resilience of the box office amid a competitive landscape, with anime now rivaling traditional Hollywood blockbusters. The film’s performance will likely accelerate further trilogy installments and reinforce Sony’s strategic focus on anime as a major growth sector. The broader implication is that anime’s cultural influence is no longer confined to Japan but is a dominant force in global entertainment, with potential to reshape box office dynamics for years to come.
What the papers say
The Japan Times reports that the first part of the ‘Demon Slayer’ trilogy earned over ¥531.42 billion, surpassing previous Japanese box office records. The Independent highlights the film’s $70 million North American debut, the biggest for an anime film, and notes its contribution to a weekend total of nearly $178 million globally. AP News emphasizes the film’s record-breaking opening, its role in pushing the genre’s year-to-date earnings past $1 billion, and its significance as a cultural phenomenon. These sources collectively underscore the film’s commercial success and the expanding influence of anime worldwide, with industry experts predicting sustained growth and further franchise installments.
How we got here
‘Demon Slayer’ is based on a manga series that has sold over 220 million copies and has been adapted into TV shows, films, and video games. The franchise's latest film, released in July, has already earned over $280 million worldwide before this weekend’s record-breaking debut. The film’s success underscores the rising popularity of Japanese anime globally, especially as Sony’s distribution through Crunchyroll expands its reach.
Go deeper
Common question
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Why Is Demon Slayer's New Movie Breaking Box Office Records?
The latest Demon Slayer film, 'Infinity Castle,' has taken the global box office by storm, setting new records for anime movies. With a $70 million North American debut and a total worldwide gross nearing $178 million, fans and industry experts are wondering what makes this film so successful. Is it the story, the animation, or the franchise's popularity? Below, we explore the reasons behind this record-breaking achievement and what it means for the future of anime movies.
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Why Are Anime Movies Like Demon Slayer Breaking Box Office Records?
Anime movies such as Demon Slayer are making headlines with record-breaking box office numbers worldwide. This surge in popularity raises questions about what’s driving this trend and whether it signals a lasting shift in global entertainment preferences. In this page, we explore the factors behind the success of anime films, their growing international appeal, and what the future might hold for this vibrant genre.
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