The first part of the “Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle” trilogy undoubtedly set a new benchmark for animated films from Japan – although it is only a greatly simplified version of the original plans. We summarize.
Too complex 3D realization
At the Tokyo Anime Award Festival 2026 (TAAF2026), cinematographer Yuichi Terao explained that before production began, the team had assumed that the 3D realization of the multi-layered and constantly changing fortress “Infinity Castle” would take almost ten years.
Because such a long production period was not feasible, the presentation was significantly simplified, so that the production time for the first of three films was ultimately shortened to around three and a half years.
Regardless of this “setback,” studio ufotable managed to produce the most successful anime film of all time with a budget of around $20 million, which grossed more than $800 million worldwide.
In Japan, the film is running in cinemas until April 9, 2026 – and is still trying to surpass its predecessor “Mugen Train”. According to current information, the theatrical release of the second part is not expected before 2027.
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© Koyoharu Gotoge / SHUEISHA, Aniplex, ufotable