The Rise of Demon Slayer: A Global Anime Sensation

Demon Slayer has captivated the world during the pandemic and continues to maintain its status as a global phenomenon even after three years. The anime series, Demon Slayer: Kimetsu No Yaiba, is currently one of the most popular ones, receiving enthusiastic reviews and boasting a highly successful box-office movie. Additionally, it has garnered numerous awards, making it evident that Demon Slayer has successfully made its mark in pop culture across different countries.

As Hollywood TV shows and movies become predictable (*cough* Marvel *cough*), and audiences crave a new and captivating experience, it's no surprise that they turned to anime. However, what made Demon Slayer stand out from the rest?

Demon Slayer, brought to us by Ufotable, not only presents a distinct storyline but also showcases award-winning animation. These factors have propelled Demon Slayer into the global spotlight, making it a phenomenon in the world of anime.

What is Demon Slayer about?

Set in an alternate version of early 20th-century Japan, known as the Taisho era, the storyline of Demon Slayer revolves around an ongoing conflict between humans and demons that has spanned centuries. Demons, once humans themselves, possess extraordinary powers, while humans consist solely of ordinary individuals.

The tale centers around Tanjiro Kamado, a young man residing in a secluded mountain village. Upon his return home one day, he discovers his entire family has been brutally massacred by a demon, except for his sister, Nezuko. However, there's a twist: Nezuko has been transformed into a demon.

In Season 1, the story unfolds with Tanjiro's determination to seek vengeance for his family and find a way to restore Nezuko's humanity by becoming a demon slayer. As the series progresses through four seasons and two movies, the gripping journey of Tanjiro continues to captivate fans for more than four years.

What makes Demon Slayer so special?

The Demon Slayer series has garnered numerous accolades, such as winning the prestigious Anime of the Year award at the 4th Crunchyroll Anime Awards (2020) and the Animation of the Year award at the Japan Academy Prize (2021). As of now, the series boasts an impressive tally of 14 awards, surpassing even popular anime franchises like Attack on Titan and Jujutsu Kaisen. However, what sets it apart goes beyond its collection of accolades.

Many fans believe that one of Demon Slayer's greatest aspects is the remarkable animation done by Ufotable. While the show primarily employs a traditional animation style, certain action sequences, such as the elemental Breathing Technique attacks, resemble watercolor paintings. This visually stunning effect is particularly captivating in the anime adaptation, making Demon Slayer an extraordinary visual experience that surpasses other currently airing anime.

Demon Slayer successfully combines impressive animation with relatable characters and an engaging storyline. The series immediately captivates its audience with the transformation of Tanjiro's sister, Nezuko, into a demon, highlighting the powerful bond between siblings. Additionally, the presence of other compelling main characters further enhances the appeal of this show for fans.

Tanjiro's resolute determination to safeguard his family, Inosuke's unwavering ambition to establish his worth, and Zenitsu's remarkable capability to conquer paralyzing apprehension collectively forge an ideal concoction for the series to achieve unparalleled success in the entertainment industry, emerging as one of the top-selling anime and manga of all time.

The Taisho era

Set in Japan's Taisho era (1912-1925), Demon Slayer portrays a fascinating period of the country's history when it stood on the cusp of two contrasting worlds.

In one realm, bustling cities flourished, embracing modern advancements like cars, electricity, and radio, while seamlessly blending Western fashion with traditional Japanese garments. Conversely, the second realm remained rooted in tradition, relying on candles for illumination, fires for cooking and warmth, and preferring walking as the primary means of transportation. This dichotomous backdrop enables the anime to navigate two distinct worlds concurrently, offering Tanjiro (and viewers) a multitude of captivating settings to discover.

Demon Slayer arrived at just the right time

Despite being initially launched in 2019, Demon Slayer gained significant momentum in 2020. The global pandemic played a role in this surge, as individuals found themselves confined to their homes with limited activities. This fresh anime series offered a captivating respite from the unpredictable circumstances of the world, enchanting viewers with its stunning visuals, compelling storyline, and endearing characters.

In addition, as the series became available on popular platforms like Netflix and Crunchyroll, and with a significant increase in people having extra free time worldwide, there was a notable rise in the usage of streaming services. In essence, Demon Slayer found itself in the perfect circumstances.

Throughout the pandemic, the series resonated with many individuals due to its overarching themes of solitude, companionship, and relentless drive to achieve seemingly unattainable goals. With its captivating blend of traditional Japanese folklore and stunning visuals, the series arrived precisely when people were in need of a much-desired escape. It is no surprise that it garnered remarkable success and introduced numerous non-anime enthusiasts to the captivating world of Japanese animation.

Now, with the emergence of Netflix, Amazon Prime, and other major platforms joining the anime industry, the newfound popularity of anime in pop culture can largely be attributed to the early success of Demon Slayer. Going beyond its status as a mere anime, the Demon Slayer franchise has captivated a global audience, immersing them in its vibrant world. Whether its triumph lies in its relatable themes, visually stunning animations, or compelling characters, as the series continues to dominate the global stage, Demon Slayer serves as a testament to the ever-evolving power of the anime landscape.

How to watch Crunchyroll from outside your location in 2023

Accessing Crunchyroll's full library from outside the US is made possible by ExpressVPN. Whether you're a fan of One Piece, Attack on Titan, or Jujutsu Kaisen, Crunchyroll is the ultimate destination for streaming anime. To unlock its complete range of content while abroad, follow these straightforward steps:

Sign up for ExpressVPN, a service that provides high-speed servers and ensures a secure and private connection no matter where you are globally. Explore 24 diverse locations across the United States when connecting with ExpressVPN, ranging from New Jersey to Santa Monica.

Visit Crunchyroll online and start streaming your favorite anime series, as well as discover new ones you haven't seen before.

Choosing Crunchyroll's US roster provides a significant advantage. While Hong Kong users have access to fewer than 100 titles, the US offers almost 1,000 movies and TV shows.

On Crunchyroll, you have the option to stream anime for free with an ad-supported plan or choose a subscription that includes additional benefits. Additionally, if you're unsure, you can take advantage of a 14-day free trial. While anticipating the next arc of Demon Slayer, explore our other anime content below.

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Editor's P/S

As a Gen Z netizen, I have witnessed the meteoric rise of Demon Slayer and its subsequent transformation into a worldwide phenomenon. The anime series has undoubtedly captivated audiences worldwide, and I believe its success can be attributed to several key factors.

First and foremost, Demon Slayer stands out with its exceptional animation quality. Produced by the renowned studio Ufotable, the anime boasts stunning visuals that elevate it above its contemporaries. The fight scenes, in particular, are a feast for the eyes, with vibrant colors, fluid movements, and breathtaking special effects. Ufotable's mastery of animation has undoubtedly played a significant role in drawing fans to the series and solidifying its status as a visual spectacle.

Another crucial factor contributing to Demon Slayer's success is its compelling storyline. The narrative revolves around Tanjiro Kamado's quest to avenge his family and cure his sister, Nezuko, who has been turned into a demon. This straightforward yet emotionally resonant premise resonates with viewers, providing a strong foundation for the series.

Moreover, the character development in Demon Slayer is commendable. Tanjiro is a relatable and empathetic protagonist whose unwavering determination and compassion endear him to audiences. The supporting cast, including Nezuko, Inosuke, and Zenitsu, also receive ample development, making them more than just one-dimensional side characters. The exploration of their backstories and motivations adds depth to the narrative and strengthens the emotional connection with viewers.