‘Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle’ Review: Haruo Sotozaki’s Visually Stunning But Narratively Complex Anime Will Leave Newcomers Struggling

Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle has made history by becoming the highest-grossing anime film and the biggest Japanese movie ever, raking in over $555 million globally. This achievement not only highlights the growing popularity of anime worldwide but also sets a new benchmark for Japanese cinema. Additionally, Last Rites has emerged as the top title in the Conjuring Universe, contributing to New Line's impressive $1 billion earnings for 2025. These milestones reflect the evolving landscape of international box office success and the increasing influence of Asian cinema.

The box office has seen a remarkable achievement with 'Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle' becoming the biggest anime movie ever, raking in an impressive $555 million. This milestone highlights the growing popularity of anime globally, showcasing its ability to captivate audiences beyond Japan. In contrast, two new Hollywood films, 'Him' and 'A Big Bold Beautiful Journey,' featuring stars like Margot Robbie and Colin Farrell, struggled to connect with international viewers, collectively earning just $4.5 million. This stark difference in performance underscores the shifting dynamics in the film industry, where anime is increasingly dominating the market.

This weekend's box office saw 'Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle' dominate with $17.3 million, while 'Him' trailed behind at $13.5 million. In stark contrast, 'A Big Bold Beautiful Journey' flopped, earning only $3.5 million. This highlights the challenges faced by new releases in a competitive market, especially when established franchises like 'Demon Slayer' continue to draw audiences.

At the Busan Asian Contents & Film Market, producers from Asia and Europe gathered to address the funding challenges and partnership hurdles they face in co-productions. The panel, titled 'Cinematic Connection: Secrets of Successful Asia-Europe Co-Productions,' highlighted the importance of collaboration in an evolving market, especially as they eye the cautious U.S. market. This discussion is crucial as it sheds light on how international partnerships can thrive despite financial obstacles, ultimately enriching the global film landscape.

The box office results show a mixed bag for new releases, with Universal's 'Him' earning a respectable $6.4 million on its opening day, landing in second place behind the popular 'Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – Infinity Castle.' However, Sony's 'A Big Bold Beautiful Journey' struggled significantly, debuting in sixth place and failing to attract audiences. This highlights the competitive nature of the film industry, where even big studios can face challenges in capturing viewer interest.

Daft Punk has announced a new collaboration with the popular game Fortnite, allowing players to experience the group's music in a unique in-game setting. While fans might hope for a reunion, the iconic duo has clarified that they have no plans to come back together. This collaboration is significant as it showcases how music and gaming continue to intersect, providing fans with a fresh way to engage with Daft Punk's legendary catalog.

The official trailer for 'Harlan Coben's Lazarus' has just been released by Prime Video, building excitement for its premiere on October 22. This thriller series, featuring Sam Claflin and Bill Nighy, dives into the mysterious death of Claflin's character's father, Dr. Jonathan Lazarus. With a gripping storyline crafted by bestselling author Harlan Coben and BAFTA-winner Danny Brocklehurst, this series promises to keep viewers on the edge of their seats, making it a must-watch for thriller enthusiasts.

Travis Kelce, the tight end for the Kansas City Chiefs, faced a hefty fine of $14,491 from the NFL for unsportsmanlike conduct during a game on September 14. The fine was imposed due to Kelce's 'obscene gestures' on the field, which not only drew attention but also raised questions about player conduct in professional sports. This incident highlights the league's ongoing efforts to maintain sportsmanship and decorum among its players, reminding fans and athletes alike of the standards expected in the game.

Canal+ Group has successfully completed its $2 billion acquisition of MultiChoice, a major player in South Africa's pay TV market. This move not only strengthens Canal+'s position in Africa, where MultiChoice operates in 50 countries, but also highlights the growing importance of the continent's media landscape. With this acquisition, Canal+ is set to enhance its offerings and expand its influence in a rapidly evolving market, making it a significant development for both companies and the industry as a whole.

My Chemical Romance is back in the spotlight with the announcement of their 'Black Parade 2026' tour, celebrating the 20th anniversary of their iconic album. This exciting news comes after their successful 'Long Live: The Black Parade' tour, and fans can look forward to 17 new live dates across North America, the UK, and Europe. Tickets go on sale on September 26, making it a perfect time for fans to secure their spots for what promises to be an unforgettable experience.

George Takei, the renowned actor and activist, has been appointed as the honorary chair of Banned Books Week, a significant initiative aimed at raising awareness about censorship in literature. This role is crucial as it highlights the ongoing battle against the suppression of diverse voices and ideas in our society. Takei's involvement brings a spotlight to the importance of protecting the freedom to read and the value of diverse narratives, making this year's event particularly impactful.