The Impact of Mugen Train in Demon Slayer: A Comprehensive Analysis

Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba has undeniably solidified its place as one of the most influential anime series in recent years, both in Japan and internationally. Since its debut in April 2019, the television adaptation of Koyoharu Gotouge's manga has sparked a resurgence of interest in anime, particularly in Western regions. The COVID-19 pandemic further contributed to its global popularity, as viewers worldwide turned to the anime medium while in lockdown.

Demon Slayer’s approach to the Mugen Train arc has forever changed the industry, for better or for worse

The Demon Slayer anime series has had a significant impact on revolutionizing certain aspects of the anime industry. This is particularly evident in the production and release of its canonical Mugen Train film in 2020, which has led to a new trend in anime franchise films known colloquially as the “Mugen Train effect.”

The Mugen Train effect, explained

The Mugen Train effect essentially demonstrated that the Demon Slayer franchise's debut film was a financial triumph, showcasing a new formula for anime series films. Prior to Mugen Train, there were few films that adapted canon storylines, and those that did were not as commercially successful as films with original narratives.

This meant that fans were paying for an experience that wasn't part of the mainline story, but it also gave them the option to skip the film if they wanted. However, the Mugen Train film's bold decision to adapt canonical material meant that viewers who chose not to pay for the film would miss key parts of the main storyline.

While forcing viewers into this choice may seem risky, the gamble paid off. The Demon Slayer film was the highest-grossing film of 2020 and became the highest-grossing Japanese film of all time, surpassing Studio Ghibli's Spirited Away. It surpassed the half-a-billion USD mark in the worldwide box office on its way to setting these records.

As expected, other franchises and animation studios took notice, and one of the first to embrace this trend was Jujutsu Kaisen and MAPPA Studios in December 2021. The Jujutsu Kaisen 0 film adapted the prequel volume to the mainline series, which is considered canon, and demonstrated that Mugen Train’s success was not a mere coincidence.

Fast forward to January 2024, and several popular franchises like Blue Lock, One Piece, and Chainsaw Man have either announced or released films based on their stories. This phenomenon, known as the Mugen Train effect, solidified Demon Slayer's place in history. However, some fans argue that this effect has negatively impacted the industry by limiting the choices of moviegoers.

Similarly, anime series are typically released internationally much faster than films. Turning mainline story content into films means that international fans may have to wait up to a year to continue the series. Additionally, after the wait, international fans have to pay to see the film in theaters. By the time the film becomes available for free on streaming platforms, nearly two years may have passed since its initial release.

Advocates of the Demon Slayer anime's impact on the industry contend that it provides a greater incentive for animation studios and creators due to its positive effects on the market. Additionally, the larger budgets allocated to anime films, in comparison to television productions, result in higher overall quality, making the cost of admission justified.

Anime fans universally agree that the Mugen Train effect has revolutionized the anime industry. Despite this departure from industry norms, a significant shift has begun among the key players in anime production. Stay updated on all anime, manga, film, and live-action news as we move through 2024.

Editor's P/S

As a passionate fan of Demon Slayer, I am thrilled to witness the profound impact of the Mugen Train arc on the anime industry. The Mugen Train effect has undoubtedly revolutionized the way anime films are produced and released, with a focus on adapting canonical storylines that directly contribute to the main narrative. This bold move has proven to be a resounding success, as evidenced by the record-breaking box office performance of the Demon Slayer film. It's exciting to see other popular franchises embracing this trend, ensuring that fans are treated to high-quality, canon-compliant content on the big screen.

However, I can't help but acknowledge the concerns raised by some fans regarding the potential negative effects of the Mugen Train effect. The fact that mainline story content is now being turned into films means that international fans may have to endure longer waiting periods and additional costs to access these crucial parts of the story. This can be frustrating for those who prefer to consume anime through streaming platforms. Balancing the desire for higher-quality content with accessibility for fans worldwide remains a challenge that the industry needs to address.