‘Demon Slayer Movie Launch Event—Akira Ishida Asks, “Did I Say Something Inappropriate?”—His Thoughtful Comments Draw Smiles from Natsuki Hanae and Takahiro Sakurai

The premiere stage greeting for the theatrical release of Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – Infinity Castle Arc Part 1: Akaza Reappears (JP: 猗窩座再来, Akaza Sairai) (released on July 18 in Japan) was held in Tokyo on July 19. Cast members Natsuki Hanae (Tanjiro Kamado), Takahiro Sakurai (Giyu Tomioka), Akira Ishida (Akaza), and singer LiSA—performer of one of the dual theme songs, “Shine in This Cruel Night (JP:残酷な夜に輝け)”—took the stage.

As the film was finally released to the public, the venue erupted in applause. Ishida shared his impressions:

“As you’ve all seen, the final product turned out wonderfully. During the voice recording stage, we worked with incomplete footage—just enough to estimate how the final scenes might look. Watching it now, I thought, ‘So this is how it all came together.’ Honestly, I’m amazed at what we’ve accomplished.”

Commenting on Akaza’s expanded role, Ishida said, “This chapter focuses significantly on Akaza, and as the actor behind him, that makes me very happy. It’s also meaningful that Akaza serves as a catalyst for both Giyu’s awakening and Tanjiro’s growth. While both characters had grown before encountering Akaza, this is where that development really explodes. I’m grateful to be the one facing them in this turning point.”

He also touched on Akaza’s shocking fighting style. “It might be a bit risky to say this is the ‘highlight’ of Demon Slayer,” Ishida began cautiously. “I sometimes wonder if I should even say it out loud… but it’s something we can’t ignore, so I will.” He explained that Akaza’s regeneration ability allows him to charge forward against Giyu and Tanjiro without regard for damage to his limbs.

“Since some scenes are graphic, perhaps it's better not to show them too explicitly so that a wider age group can enjoy the film with peace of mind.”

Hanae and Sakurai smiled at Ishida’s overly considerate remarks, prompting him to ask, half-jokingly, “Did I say something inappropriate?” Even so, he was encouraged to finish his point.

“With Akaza enduring blow after blow and still not going down, it really emphasizes just how terrifying demons are. That, in turn, deepens the audience’s desire to cheer on the Demon Slayer Corps. In my opinion, it’s important not to obscure that aspect.”

Sakurai chimed in, saying, “It’s almost unfair. He keeps regenerating.” Hanae added, “The Film Classification Committee said it’s okay, after all,” offering lighthearted reassurance. Ishida concluded with a message to families: “If you're bringing small children to see it, maybe a little eye-covering or some extra care from parents would be good.”

Based on the hit manga that ran in Weekly Shonen Jump from February 2016 to May 2020, Demon Slayer is set in the Taisho era, in a world plagued by man-eating demons. It follows Tanjiro Kamado, a young boy who joins the Demon Slayer Corps to avenge his family and restore his demon-transformed sister Nezuko back into a human. The manga has sold over 220 million copies worldwide.

The anime series Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – Tanjiro Kamado, Unwavering Resolve Arc aired in 2019, quickly becoming a sensation. The 2020 release of Demon Slayer: Mugen Train Arc went on to gross over 51.7 billion yen globally, solidifying its status as a cultural phenomenon.

Following its success, the franchise expanded into video games and stage plays, with new anime arcs airing in December 2021 (Entertainment District Arc), April 2023 (Swordsmith Village Arc), and from May to June 2024 (Hashira Training Arc).

The new film trilogy, Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle Arc, depicts the Demon Slayer Corps’ climactic battle against their arch-nemesis Muzan Kibutsuji and the Upper Rank demons. Part 1, Akaza Reappears, centers on the corps’ incursion into the demons’ stronghold—the Infinity Castle.

Source : ORICON NEWS