‘chainsaw Man’ Is Latest Anime Box Office Hit—Following ‘demon Slayer’ Success

Anime Success at the Box Office: Chainsaw Man’s Ascendancy

The recent success of anime films in U.S. theaters has been a notable trend, with movies like “Chainsaw Man – The Movie: Reze Arc” leading the pack this weekend. As of October 24, 2025, the film is set to top the box office with an expected earnings range between $11 million and $15 million, based on Variety’s report.

Financial Performance and Distribution

Sony Pictures has been at the forefront of this trend, distributing “Chainsaw Man” as well as the highly successful “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – The Movie – Infinity Castle,” which has grossed $131 million in the U.S. and over $588 million worldwide since its release in September 2024.

This strategy by Sony highlights their investment in anime, a genre that has gained significant traction among young audiences in recent years. The studio’s success with “Demon Slayer” suggests a clear market for high-quality anime films, which are not only appealing to fans but also capable of drawing large crowds into theaters.

Industry Context and Expert Perspectives

According to Rahul Purini, president of Crunchyroll, Sony Pictures has seen the growth in anime fandom as “no longer niche — it’s mainstream and gigantic.” This sentiment underscores the broader industry shift towards recognizing the potential of anime films. The positive reception of both “Chainsaw Man” and “Demon Slayer” extends beyond box office success; they have also garnered critical acclaim, with perfect scores on Rotten Tomatoes.

The success of these films in typically quieter months like October (which is noted as one of the lowest-grossing months this year) further demonstrates their enduring appeal. This success contrasts sharply with high-profile flops such as “Tron: Ares” and “One Battle After Another,” which have underperformed despite hefty production budgets.

Chainsaw Man’s Critical Reception

“Chainsaw Man – The Movie: Reze Arc” has received overwhelmingly positive reviews, with a perfect 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes based on 19 reviews. This strong critical response is expected to boost its box office performance, potentially outperforming competitors like “Black Phone 2,” which had lower preview earnings.

The film’s success aligns with the broader trend of anime movies finding a receptive audience in U.S. theaters. Distributors are increasingly betting on this genre due to its proven ability to attract and retain viewers who are eager for quality storytelling and immersive visual experiences.

Future Prospects and Industry Implications

The upcoming sequels in the “Demon Slayer” franchise, along with Sony’s continued investment in anime content, suggest a bright future for this genre. The studio’s urgency to bring more Demon Slayer content to fans reflects both their confidence in the franchise and their strategic approach to capitalizing on growing fan interest.

As the industry continues to explore new ways of engaging audiences through various mediums, including theatrical releases, anime films remain a significant player. Their success not only boosts box office revenues but also reinforces the cultural significance of Japanese animation beyond its traditional home markets.