Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – The Infinity Castle Arc Part 1: Akaza Returns is now in theaters across Japan. Voice actor Akira Ishida, who plays Akaza, spoke about his approach to the character and the emotional impact of portraying Hakuji’s past as revealed in the film.

How Did Akaza’s Past Influence Akira Ishida’s Performance?

—The film reveals Akaza’s past. Did that influence how you portrayed him as a demon?

Ishida
“I think it depends on where you draw the line, but for the part of Akaza before his past is told, there’s really no change — he’s the same Akaza as before.
I felt that he probably appeared thinking, “These demon slayers are being noisy again,” so that’s the feeling I had while performing.

However, as the battle progresses — especially against (Tanjiro) Kamado — his perception begins to change. You could say that his way of thinking shifts as the fight goes on. By exchanging blows, he realizes, “This guy has gotten stronger.” From Akaza’s perspective, Tanjiro isn’t his equal, but there’s a kind of joy or excitement in seeing him get closer to his level.

After his past is revealed, you could call that a change too, but since it’s part of one continuous flow, I feel like calling it a “change” isn’t quite right.”

On the Meaning Behind Portraying Akaza’s Past

—Akaza is a demon, yet many fans love him. Since this film gives him a major spotlight, what did you focus on in your performance?

Ishida
"Structurally, the story gives him a clear spotlight, with enough time dedicated to Akaza and Hakuji’s scenes.
So what’s important is to perform them properly, as intended — to do exactly what the story aims to show. That’s what leads to the “highlight” moments. I was careful not to make mistakes in that part.

For example, I think Hakuji’s life starts from a negative point. If someone like his later master had been there back then to keep an eye on him, his life might have been different. But since that wasn’t the case, I needed to express what kind of person he became toward others.

By doing so, the scenes where he’s taken in by the master, meets Koyuki, and finds comfort with that family create a contrast. There’s change within his life as a human. By understanding that and portraying each stage of Hakuji properly, I believe the audience can truly understand who he is."

Source : ORICON NEWS