The details surrounding Makima's demise in Chainsaw Man might be difficult for readers to fully grasp. Throughout the narrative, it becomes apparent that Makima is not the typical individual she initially appears to be, as she is able to withstand fatal assaults that would normally be lethal to ordinary humans. This ability may even be interpreted as a form of quasi-immortality.
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The initial manifestation of these abilities becomes evident during the Katana Man arc as Makima sustains a gunshot to the head and apparently succumbs to death. Yet, within moments, she rejuvenates herself, albeit bloodied, and retaliates against her assailants. This serves as only the inaugural instance of numerous deadly assaults she effortlessly withstands.
Breaking down Makima's death in Chainsaw Man
The demise of Makima may appear straightforward, but the truth behind it is considerably more intricate. Throughout the narrative, it becomes evident that Makima's true nature is far from benevolent, despite her initial façade, and many of her actions are driven by hidden agendas.
This is hinted at when she talks to Kishibe after the Katana Man arc, suggesting that she knew about the attack in advance. Her survival in this arc raises doubt, as well as her consistent lack of injuries despite the escalating danger. The climax arrives with the shocking revelation that Makima is actually the Control Devil, who manipulated the events in the manga to attain control over Chainsaw Man and create a 'utopia' using its erasure abilities.
Key to her consolidated power is the contract she has with the Prime Minister of Japan—any attacks or illnesses she sustains will be redirected to a random citizen of Japan. How could Makima ever be defeated with such a powerful contract? The answer is revealed through a loophole in said contract.
Makima's Final Battle
Makima's taste is commented on by Denji. (Image via Tatsuki Fujimoto)
In the climactic battle against Makima, Denji cunningly tricks her into engaging with 'the Chainsaw Man' instead of himself. Denji conceals himself within her small legion of devil hunters, while it is presumed that Makima is confronting Pochita, who is manifested around Denji's heart (evident by the adorned armor plating and additional chainsaws).
Denji had realized that Makima's ability to distinguish humans was based on smell rather than sight. Since Makima couldn't perceive him beyond his identity as Chainsaw Man, he cleverly surprised her with an attack.
In a desperate move, Denji took advantage of a last-minute contract he formed with Power. He used a chainsaw infused with Power's blood to wound Makima, preventing her from healing herself. However, it became apparent that this tactic was only temporary and didn't truly eliminate the threat she posed. Kishibe later informs Denji that innocent civilians continue to perish as Makima tries to regenerate, emphasizing the urgency for him to finish the job before more lives are lost.
Despite everything Makima has done to him, Denji still cannot bring himself to completely hate her and continues to have feelings of love for her. In an attempt to bring them closer together, Denji takes the drastic step of ingesting her. This act is not meant as an attack on her but rather a genuine expression of his love. As a consequence, Makima is unable to regenerate and is effectively killed.
Ultimately, Makima's downfall can be attributed to her own overconfidence and inability to see Denji as anything other than the Chainsaw Man. Her exploitative plot against him backfires due to his authentic love for her.
The Fate of the Control Devil
After Makima's disappearance, the devil rules in Chainsaw Man confirm the rebirth of the Control devil, now embodied as a young child named Nayuta. Denji, taking on the responsibility of caring for her, aims to prevent Nayuta from following in Makima's footsteps. Despite having a slight resemblance in personality, it is highly unlikely that Nayuta will adopt Makima's traits under Denji's guidance, including her near-invulnerability. Ultimately, Makima's demise arose not from direct combat, but rather through deceit and Denji's unconventional yet sincere display of affection. This same affection drives him to ensure that Nayuta never becomes like Makima.
Editor's P/S
Makima's demise in Chainsaw Man is a complex and fascinating event that raises important questions about the nature of power, control, and love. On the one hand, Makima's death can be seen as a victory for Denji and the other characters who have suffered under her oppressive rule. On the other hand, it can also be seen as a tragedy, as Makima was a complex and ultimately sympathetic character.
Her death is a reminder that even the most powerful beings can be defeated, and that love can be a powerful force for change. Ultimately, Makima's death is a complex and thought-provoking event that leaves readers with much to consider.