Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle surpassing Superman brings back comics vs. Anime debate again

Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle has created waves in the film world, and it thoroughly deserves all the recognition. That is why it is important to talk about a very important aspect of this film that backs up all the praises it is gaining. Recently, the Infinity Castle movie has climbed into the top 10 highest-grossing films of 2025.

Fans of anime are overjoyed to see the rankings, as it has crossed James Gunn’s Superman. For fans, this is a moment to celebrate as it is a mark of a cultural shift. Anime was not always easily available or popular enough to become a global sensation. But now, with the Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle movie, this proves that anime is no longer a niche interest.

As of its 11th weekend in Japan, the film has raked in $236.2 million domestically with over 24.2 million admissions, putting it on the verge of dethroning Spirited Away as one of Japan’s most-watched films ever.

Moreover, surpassing the Superman movie is a victory because it represents DC’s attempt at rebuilding its cinematic universe, a cultural icon reimagined for a new generation. For Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle to overtake it highlights how global entertainment tastes are shifting.

If we look past the box office numbers and bring focus to the symbolic meaning of anime being more popular than a famous franchise, it represents cultural evolution. The story of Superman was always a fan favorite as he represents the American ideal: truth, justice, and the superhero mythos that has dominated 20th and early 21st-century pop culture.

Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle movie has proved that for something to be popular, a story does not need to be “Americanised”, and this is one of the reasons it has left such a lasting impact on audiences. Additionally, fans have also openly praised the authentic story it has offered, thus finally proving that diverse storytelling has a universal pull.

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Fan reaction

Since this news broke on social media, fans have taken no time to spare on giving their opinion on this news. While most of those who enjoy anime are overjoyed and are not hesitant to show their appreciation, there are a few die-hard fans of comics who still choose to side with their favorite superhero.

Some of the common reactions found online are:

“Wild how anime keeps carrying theaters while half of Hollywood can’t clear opening weekend,” Said one fan.

“Idc superman better,” Said another fan.

“Demon Slayer flexing on Superman, anime supremacy confirmed,” added another fan.

When it comes to the most common debate between anime and comics, anime has rarely had the opportunity to come under the global population spotlight. That is why, as the Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle movie has been breaking records after record, fans cannot help but celebrate each milestone.

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Industry Implications after the success of Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle movie

The rise of anime films like Infinity Castle carries important implications for both industries.

1. For anime studios: Success validates higher production budgets and global distribution strategies. If Infinity Castle can hit $600M+, future anime blockbusters may aim even higher, perhaps even surpassing $1B someday.
2. For Hollywood: Competition forces innovation. To retain audiences, superhero films must evolve beyond formula. Greater focus on character depth, artistic risks, and cultural resonance will be necessary.
3. For audiences: Viewers benefit most. Competition between anime and comics ensures more variety, better production values, and richer storytelling across the board.

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Final thoughts

The success of Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle in surpassing Superman isn’t just a box office statistic; it’s a cultural moment. The scales are shifting. For the first time in cinematic history, anime isn’t just chasing comic book heroes; it’s surpassing them. And as Infinity Castle continues to climb, it may not just be Superman looking over its shoulder; it could be the entire Hollywood superhero machine.