The highly anticipated “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle” movie is poised to dominate the U.S. box office this weekend, with projections indicating a massive opening that could shatter previous anime records. Set to release on September 12, 2025, the film is already generating significant buzz, with pre-sale tickets breaking records for anime theatrical releases. Industry trackers and analysts are forecasting an opening weekend haul anywhere from $35 million to a staggering $75 million, potentially positioning it as the highest-grossing anime debut in American history..
This surge in “Demon Slayer’s” box office potential is indicative of a broader, trending shift in entertainment consumption: the unstoppable rise of anime into the mainstream. Once a niche genre, anime has steadily captured a global audience, driven significantly by the accessibility offered by streaming services like Crunchyroll and Netflix. These platforms have not only expanded the reach of anime through subtitling and dubbing but have also accelerated the release of new series and movies, making them more immediate and engaging for fans worldwide..
The “Demon Slayer” franchise, in particular, has benefited immensely from this evolving landscape. Its previous film, “Demon Slayer: Mugen Train,” achieved remarkable success in 2021, grossing over $500 million worldwide and becoming the highest-grossing Japanese anime movie of all time.. “Infinity Castle” is the first installment of a trilogy based on the climactic Infinity Castle arc of Koyoharu Gotouge’s manga. It features the Demon Slayer Corps engaging in an epic battle against powerful Upper Rank demons, culminating in a confrontation with the series’ primary antagonist, Muzan Kibutsuji.. The film has already demonstrated immense popularity in Japan, breaking records for opening day and weekend earnings, and climbing to become one of the country’s highest-grossing films ever..
While “Demon Slayer” is positioned to be the weekend’s top earner, it faces competition from other notable releases. “Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale,” the concluding film in the beloved period drama series, is expected to draw a dedicated fanbase, with projections placing its opening weekend between $15 million and $24 million.. The mockumentary sequel “Spinal Tap II: The End Continues” also premieres this weekend, aiming to capture an audience with its blend of music, comedy, and nostalgia, with its own box office predictions ranging between $4 million and $10 million..
The success of “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle” is more than just a win for the franchise; it’s a testament to anime’s growing cultural and commercial significance. As streaming services continue to integrate anime into mainstream viewing habits, and as cinematic releases offer event-like experiences for fans, the genre is firmly establishing itself as a global powerhouse. The robust performance of “Demon Slayer” underscores that anime is no longer a niche interest but a significant force in the global movies and TV landscape, captivating audiences from Los Angeles to Tokyo.
Key individuals involved include director Haruo Sotozaki, with music by Yuki Kajiura and Go Shiina. The film is distributed by Crunchyroll and Sony Pictures Entertainment worldwide, excluding Japan and select Asian territories.. The combined efforts of studios like ufotable and distributors like Crunchyroll, alongside the broad appeal fostered by streaming giants, are painting a bright future for anime’s continued journey into the mainstream.
