Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba: Hashira Training Arc is the latest season of the much-anticipated anime available on Crunchyroll and Netflix. This season is special as it marks the end of the series format; during the season finale, it was announced that Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle will be released exclusively in theatres globally as an epic trilogy of films!
A Surprise Announcement
Before this exciting announcement, I had planned to wait patiently and binge-watch the entire season over the weekend, saving the finale for Monday. When the news broke about the upcoming trilogy, I was thrilled with my decision but also a bit frustrated because my excitement was hard to contain.
Will it be like Godzilla Minus One, premiering in Japan first and then showing in other countries months later? It reminds me of Keishi Ōtomo's live-action Rurouni Kenshin in 2012. I am eager to see Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle on the big screen. Hopefully, they'll release it simultaneously worldwide! I need more info and must do some research.
Hashira Training Arc: More Than Just a Prelude
Despite IGN giving Demon Slayer: Hashira Training Arc a 3/10, I believe this season is far from bad. It embodies the calm before the storm. Season 4 provides valuable insights into our incredible Hashiras, especially Kagaya Ubuyashiki, the most respected and significant figure in the Demon Slayer Corps, and his family.
In my previous review of Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Seasons 1, 2 & 3, I recommended watching the two movies-The Movie: Mugen Train (2021) and To the Swordsmith Village (2023)-after the first three seasons. Now, I suggest watching season 4, as it also sets the stage for thoroughly enjoying Infinity Castle. Don't be a risk-taker and watch the trilogy mindlessly. Do yourself a favour and watch the series; you can find it all on Crunchyroll and Netflix.
Is It Worth the Hype?
The popularity of Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba is due to several factors. Although some call it simple, the series boasts high-level animation, excellent action scenes, and fast-paced storytelling. While the storyline is straightforward, that doesn't mean it isn't worth watching.
Tanjiro Kamado's quest to avenge his family and turn his sister, Nezuko, back into a human forms the series' emotional core. This war between humans (demon slayers) and demons, ongoing for centuries, is rich with emotions and meaningful messages.
The Heart of the Series: Family
One of the most compelling aspects of this series is its emphasis on family. It portrays the idea that family comes first and stands by you during hardships, a message that resonates deeply with viewers. This simplicity and emotional depth are why people love and support the show.
Seeing a low rating for such an incredible anime was hard, especially after a season finale that delivered intensity and excitement. It left us with much to look forward to in The Infinity Castle. The final arc promises to be intense and heart-wrenching. I'm pretty sure we'll all be crying by the end.
Update:
As we eagerly await the trilogy, there's something fun to dive into right now: the Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Total Concentration Exhibition. The exhibition in the Philippines opened on July 27, 2024, and runs until October 20, 2024, at Level 3, Gateway Mall 2, Araneta City. Organized by PULP Spaces+, Muse Communication, ACO MEDIA, and Mediasphere Communication, this immersive event brings the world of Demon Slayer to life with interactive displays, life-sized replicas, and exclusive merch. Whether you're a seasoned fan or new to the series, this exhibition is a unique opportunity to step into the Taisho era and experience the series in a whole new way.
Ticket Information:
Pre-Sales (June 15 - June 30, 2024) Early Bird (July 1 - July 19, 2024) General Admission (From July 20, 2024): Special Packages (From June 15, 2024, while supplies last)- Collection Package A: P1,490 (includes a Metal Bookmark)
- Collection Package B: P1,280 (includes a Character ID Card)