One of the big draws to Demon Slayer is how creative the Demons themselves can be. They can range from the ones that can pass for Human to the ones that look like hideous abominations, but they all look interesting. However, I don’t think I’ve seen a Demon as strange or unnerving as that of Gyokko of the Upper Four. Not only does he have mouths where his eyes would be, but Gyokko looks like centipede with stunted limbs! The most disturbing thing about him, though, is his sick, depraved ideas about “art.” If I hadn’t already seen many sick things in fiction, the art of Gyokko might make me puke.
The Demon Slayers and swordsmiths have their work cut out for them in this fight!
I Now Understand Why Mitsuri Kanroji’s a Waifu
First, though, we need to address the arrival of the Love Hashira, Mitsuri Kanroji, at the Swordsmith Village. With Tanjiro and the other’s tied down fighting the Upper Four, the Swordsmiths can’t do much to stop the fish Demons from killing them all. However, all that changes when Misturi arrives on the battlefield. We get to see her Love Breathing style first-hand, and it is impressive. It’s strange that her sword’s more of a whip, but the results speak for themselves. She wastes the Demons attacking the villagers and saves the village chief while doing so!
Her crazy strength alone is enough to impress most people. What makes Mitsuri a top-tier waifu is her personality. The first thing she does after saving the village chief is to make sure they’re all right, much to his happiness. She’s a precious treasure, and I’m looking forward to seeing what else she can do in this arc.
Gyokko is One Messed Up Demon
While all of this is happening, Muichiro’s heading to the shed with Kotetsu to get the new sword promised to him by the swordsmith Kozo, only to save the latter en route. By the time the three make it to the shed, though, Gyokko’s already beaten them there in his demonic vases. The Demon’s already creepy enough, but once he decides to show the three his “art” before killing them, it’s enough to make people’s stomachs churn. This Demon has been capturing villagers from the Swordsmith Village in his vases, fusing them, and then spitting them back out as these horrifically grotesque statues! If that wasn’t bad enough, then Gyokko explains in great detail the meaning behind everything like an artist explaining his work to critics, and he does it without caring how he made the thing.
The worst part, though? When Gyokko twists a sword embedded in the thing, the “statue” starts screaming in pain. The people that make up his “art” are still alive and in unspeakable agony! If it weren’t for the fact that I’ve seen messed-up stuff like this before, I might have puked then and there. Muichiro needs to put Gyokko down. He’s not only a threat to humanity, but a menace to art! That might be hard, though, since Gyokko can create magic vases, teleport them wherever he wants, and imprison people in water.
Tanjiro Unlocks that Shonen Super State!
Meanwhile, Tanjiro, Nezuko, and Genya’s fight against the four Demons that make up Hatengu isn’t going well. The Demons prove to be even stronger when fighting together, as seen when they level the building they were fighting in! Tanjiro gets ready to fight them anyway but is surprised when Nezuko grabs his sword and refuses to let go until it’s coated in her blood. At first glance, it looks like she’s trying to stop him, but then the sword catches fire. Nezuko used her Blood Demon Art to set Tanjiro’s blade on fire!
A flaming sword’s cool enough as it is, but it’s more than just for coolness points. The blade that Tanjiro and Kotestu found in the training doll was also bright red. The same bright red used by the man Tanjiro’s had dreams of, and what his own sword became in the Entertainment District’s final battle. A lot of Shonen stories have the protagonist’s unlocking some kind of super-powered state at one point or another, and this red sword, combined with that mark on Tanjiro, is the Demon Slayer equivalent. As a result, Tanjiro cuts through three of Hantengu’s selves like a hot knife through butter! Once again, Demon Slayer’s animation proves to be one of its biggest draws.
The Fight Could Go Either Way Right Now
As of now, the Demon Slayers and Demons seem to be in a stalemate. At first glance, it looks like the Demons have the upper hand, but that’s what tends to happen in these fights. The Demon Slayers are always fighting an uphill battle. However, between Mitsuri showing up, Muichiro tying down Gyokko, and Tanjiro’s flaming sword, things could turn in their favor. In addition, one of Hantengu’s persona’s has a memory from Muzan of that swordsman from Tanjiro’s dreams using the same power against him. People who read the manga know what that power is, and what it means that Tanjiro’s unlocked it for the second time now. Muzan has reason to be afraid.
Thus far, the Swordsmith Village Arc’s shaping up to be just as exciting as the Entertainment District was, if not more. I’m looking forward to seeing what happens, but above all, I want to see Gyokko get what’s coming to him! That Demon must die!
How did the Demons find the Swordsmith Village in the first place? That’s what I’m asking myself as I watched the new episode of Demon Slayer. The fact that it’s under attack by two members of the Upper Four, though, is just as concerning. However, for all their power, the Demons have themselves a tough time against the likes of Tanjiro, Nezuko, and their allies. What follows is a rather interesting series of battles that sees all the Demon Slayers get a chance to show off their skills. And that includes Nezuko!
Muichiro Does Have a Heart, After All
Despite having a personality akin to sandpaper at first, the last episode proved that underneath all that, Muichiro’s a decent person. He wound up taking Tanjiro’s words about kindness to others to heart. As a result, he saves Kotesu from the fish Demon. What’s more, despite wanting to prioritize the safety of the village over a single person, he agrees to help Kotetsu save Hotaru and his comrade.
So, Muichiro’s not a bad person. However, this episode also revealed something interesting: he has amnesia. He doesn’t remember much about his past, so the head of the Demon Slayer Corps has been telling him to talk to others. Sometimes, minor moments can trigger a person’s memories. Thus, he jumps back into the fight to save Hotaru, AKA the guy fixing the sword that Tanjiro’s going to need to win.
Speaking of which…
Tanjiro, Nezuko, and Genya vs. the Quadruplet Demons
I’ve seen a number of Demons with bizarre powers in this series, but I wasn’t expecting one that could split into more Demons like Hantengu can. As a result of this ability, now the three are facing off against four Demons, each representing a different emotion of Hantengu: Urogi, Sekido, Karaku, and Aizetsu. At first glance, they all appear to be tougher than them, but that’s usually the case with Demons. Yet thanks to some good old-fashioned swordsmanship and inegunity, Tanjiro still manages to come out on top. Thanks to his wits, Tanjiro discovers that there’s a limit to how many times the Demons can split themselves. In addition, despite being separated from his sister and Genya, he uses Urogi to quickly reunite with his comrades. This is why Tanjiro’s one of the best the Demon Slayer Corps has to offer.
Nezuko, meanwhile, starts struggling against her opponent. On paper, she should be fine, but the more she uses her Demon powers, the greater the risk she has of succumbing to them. Thankfully, Genya manages to cover for her well enough, despite taking a beating himself.
I don’t know that much about Genya, but his fighting style’s unlike any Demon Slayer we’ve seen thus far. He doesn’t use breathing techniques, he uses a shotgun, and he can heal from bad injuries. He’s an interesting character, to be sure. I hope we learn more about him as the arc progresses.
The War has Come to the Swordsmith Village
It doesn’t matter how you slice it, the war against the Demons has come to the Swordsmith Village. Worse, since it’s location is a secret even from the Demon Slayers, there’s no surefire way to get people there in time to help. It’s fortunate that the Love Hashira, Misturi, happens to be nearby and rushes to help. Beyond that, the villagers and the Demon Slayers there are on their own.
I don’t know the full details of what happens, but I do know that something very important happens at the very end of this arc. As such, I’m going to be paying close attention to what happens. Given how this is Demon Slayer, we’re bound to get some jaw-dropping action in the coming episodes. It will be worth it!
From Human to Ghoul Kaneki’s Transformation in Tokyo Ghoul
One of the most iconic transformation scenes in anime is Kaneki’s transformation from a normal human to a half-ghoul in Tokyo Ghoul. Kaneki was an ordinary college student until he was attacked by a ghoul and received a life-saving organ transplant from her, which turned him into a half-ghoul hybrid.
The scene in which Kaneki’s transformation occurs is particularly gruesome and unsettling, as his body contorts and twists in pain as his ghoul powers awaken. His hair turns white, his nails become razor sharp, and his eyes turn red with a black sclera, signifying his new status as a ghoul.
Kaneki’s transformation is not just physical, but also psychological, as he struggles to come to terms with his new identity and the fact that he must now consume human flesh to survive. This internal conflict drives much of the story of Tokyo Ghoul, making Kaneki’s transformation a pivotal moment in the series.
The Curse of the Mark: Griffith’s Transformation in Berserk
Griffith’s transformation in Berserk is a pivotal moment in the series, as it marks the character’s descent into darkness and sets the stage for much of the story’s later events. The transformation is brought about by the activation of the Crimson Behelit, a mysterious artifact that summons the God Hand, a group of demonic beings that offer immense power to those who sacrifice the things most precious to them.
Griffith, seeking to achieve his dream of ruling his own kingdom, sacrifices his comrades and closest friends to the God Hand in exchange for power. The result is a horrific transformation, as Griffith is reborn as Femto, a demonic being with wings and a dark, twisted appearance.
The scene in which Griffith transforms is chilling, as his body contorts and writhes in pain before he emerges as Femto, complete with his trademark helmet and razor-sharp wings. The transformation is not just physical, but also symbolic of Griffith’s betrayal and descent into evil, marking a turning point in the story that shapes the remainder of the series.
Beyond Human Limits Goku’s Super Saiyan Transformation in Dragon Ball Z
Goku’s Super Saiyan transformation in “Dragon Ball Z Figure” is one of the most iconic moments in anime history. The transformation occurs during Goku’s battle with the evil tyrant Frieza, who had just killed Goku’s best friend, Krillin, and pushed Goku to his absolute limits.
As Frieza taunts Goku and prepares to finish him off, Goku suddenly begins to transform. His hair turns golden and stands on end, his eyes turn green, and his muscles bulk up significantly. The transformation marks a dramatic increase in Goku’s power, pushing him beyond his human limits and into the realm of the legendary Super Saiyan.
The scene in which Goku transforms is intense and emotional, with Frieza’s arrogance and cruelty driving Goku to the brink of his own destruction. The transformation is a powerful symbol of Goku’s strength and determination, as well as his love for his friends and his willingness to push himself to new heights to protect them.
The Super Saiyan transformation becomes a defining characteristic of Goku’s character throughout the Dragon Ball Z series and beyond, with numerous other characters also achieving the transformation in later story arcs.
The Demon Within: Inuyasha’s Transformation in Inuyasha
Inuyasha’s transformation in Inuyasha is a pivotal moment in the series, as it marks the first time that the half-demon unleashes the full extent of his power. Inuyasha is a hybrid of a human and a dog demon, and throughout the series, he struggles to control his demonic side and the immense power that comes with it.
In the scene where Inuyasha transforms, he is pushed to his limits by his arch-nemesis, the demon Naraku. As Naraku taunts Inuyasha and threatens to harm his loved ones, Inuyasha’s demonic powers begin to stir. His eyes turn red, his claws lengthen, and his fangs become more pronounced as he fully unleashes his demonic form.
The transformation is both terrifying and exhilarating, as Inuyasha’s power surges and he becomes a force to be reckoned with. However, the transformation also comes with a cost, as Inuyasha struggles to control his demonic impulses and must work to maintain his humanity in the face of his newfound power.
Inuyasha’s transformation is a pivotal moment in his character arc, as it marks the first step in his journey towards accepting and embracing his demonic side. The transformation also sets the stage for many of the later battles in the series, as Inuyasha must learn to balance his power with his humanity in order to overcome his enemies.
The Ultimate Kryptonian: Doomsday’s Transformation in Superman: Doomsday
Doomsday’s transformation in Superman: Doomsday is a chilling and destructive moment in the film. Doomsday is a creature created by an ancient Kryptonian genetic engineering program, designed to be an unstoppable force of destruction.
In the scene where Doomsday transforms, he emerges from a Kryptonian chamber in which he has been genetically engineered and begins to wreak havoc on the city of Metropolis. His appearance is monstrous, with spiked armor covering his body and glowing red eyes that exude pure rage.
As Doomsday battles Superman and other heroes, he continues to evolve and adapt, becoming stronger and more dangerous with each passing moment. His transformation is not just physical, but also mental, as he becomes more and more fixated on destruction and less capable of reason or empathy.
Doomsday’s transformation marks a pivotal moment in the story of Superman: Doomsday, as it sets the stage for the climactic battle between Doomsday and Superman. The transformation is a powerful reminder of the dangers of unchecked genetic engineering and the potential consequences of creating a creature that is truly beyond human control.
The Rise of the Titans: Eren’s Transformation in Attack on Titan
Eren’s transformation in Attack on Titan is a significant moment in the series, as it marks the first time that a human has been able to transform into one of the fearsome Titans that threaten humanity. Eren is a member of the Survey Corps, a group of soldiers tasked with protecting humanity from the Titans, who are giant humanoid creatures that devour humans without reason.
In the scene where Eren transforms, he is faced with the overwhelming power of the Titans and is forced to make a desperate decision. With the help of a mysterious serum, Eren gains the ability to transform into a Titan, granting him immense strength and regenerative powers.
The transformation is both awe-inspiring and terrifying, as Eren’s body mutates and grows, and his eyes turn into those of a Titan. However, the transformation also comes with a price, as Eren struggles to control his newfound power and must grapple with the consequences of his actions as a Titan.
Eren’s transformation marks a turning point in the story of Attack on Titan, as it sets the stage for many of the later battles in the series and introduces new complexities to the already fraught relationship between humans and Titans. The transformation also marks a significant moment in Eren’s character development, as he grapples with the morality of his actions as both a human and a Titan.
The True Nature of the Devil: Akira’s Transformation in Devilman Crybaby
Akira’s transformation in Devilman Crybaby is a terrifying and brutal moment in the series, as it marks the moment when Akira fully embraces his demonic powers and becomes the titular Devilman. Akira is a high school student who becomes entangled in a war between demons and humans, and must make a difficult choice when he discovers his true nature.
In the scene where Akira transforms, he is faced with the full extent of the demonic powers that have been lying dormant within him. As he unleashes his true form, his body contorts and shifts, becoming more and more demonic with each passing moment. His eyes turn red, his skin becomes covered in scales, and his once-human form is twisted and warped into a monstrous creature.
The transformation is both shocking and mesmerizing, as Akira’s power surges and he becomes a force to be reckoned with. However, the transformation also comes with a cost, as Akira struggles to maintain his humanity in the face of his newfound demonic powers and must confront the true nature of the devil within him.
Akira’s transformation is a pivotal moment in the story of Devilman Crybaby, as it sets the stage for the apocalyptic battle between demons and humans that lies at the heart of the series. The transformation also raises difficult questions about the nature of good and evil, and the blurred lines between human and demon in the world of Devilman Crybaby.
The Dark Side of Magic: Lucy’s Transformation in Elfen Lied
Lucy’s transformation in Elfen Lied is a disturbing and tragic moment in the series, as it marks the moment when Lucy fully embraces her powers as a Diclonius, a race of beings with telekinetic abilities and lethal vectors. Lucy is a young woman who has been subjected to cruel experimentation and abuse, and her transformation is the result of years of trauma and pain.
In the scene where Lucy transforms, she is pushed to the brink of insanity by the constant abuse and mistreatment she has suffered. As she unleashes her powers, her body is engulfed in a terrifying aura, and her vectors lash out, killing everyone in their path.
The transformation is both horrifying and heartbreaking, as Lucy is revealed to be a victim of the same system that has created her monstrous powers. Her transformation is a testament to the dark side of magic and the dangers of wielding power without empathy or compassion.
Lucy’s transformation is a pivotal moment in the story of Elfen Lied, as it sets the stage for the intense battles and tragic events that follow. The transformation also serves as a powerful reminder of the toll that abuse and trauma can take on the human psyche, and the importance of addressing these issues in a responsible and compassionate manner.
From Child to Monster: Nina’s Transformation in Fullmetal Alchemist
Nina’s transformation in Fullmetal Alchemist is a heartbreaking and horrifying moment in the series, as it marks the moment when Nina is turned into a monstrous chimera by her father, who is working for the military. Nina is a young girl who befriends the series’ protagonists, Edward and Alphonse Elric, and her transformation is a result of the dark alchemical experiments that take place in the world of Fullmetal Alchemist.
In the scene where Nina transforms, she is shown to be completely helpless and vulnerable, as her father uses her as a test subject in his twisted experiments. The transformation is both shocking and deeply disturbing, as Nina’s body is twisted and warped into a monstrous chimera, with her human and dog forms merged together in a grotesque and unnatural way.
The transformation is a stark reminder of the consequences of playing with the laws of alchemy, and the danger of using science for evil purposes. Nina’s transformation also serves as a poignant commentary on the horrors of war and the way that innocent lives can be sacrificed in the pursuit of power and glory.
Nina’s transformation is a pivotal moment in the story of Fullmetal Alchemist, as it sets the stage for the intense battles and moral dilemmas that the series’ characters must face. The transformation also serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of compassion and empathy, and the need to protect the innocent and vulnerable in a world that can be cruel and unforgiving.
The Vampiric Awakening: Seras’ Transformation in Hellsing
Seras’ transformation in Hellsing is a powerful and visceral moment in the series, as it marks the moment when Seras becomes a vampire and fully embraces her newfound powers. Seras is a former police officer who is turned into a vampire by Alucard, the series’ main protagonist, after she is mortally wounded in a battle with a vampire.
In the scene where Seras transforms, she is shown to be struggling with her humanity and the knowledge that she has become something that she once fought against. As she embraces her vampiric powers, her body is engulfed in a dark and supernatural aura, and her eyes turn blood red.
The transformation is both thrilling and terrifying, as Seras’ body is transformed into a powerful and deadly weapon, with superhuman strength, speed, and agility. The transformation also marks a significant turning point in Seras’ character arc, as she begins to grapple with the morality of her newfound powers and the question of what it means to be a vampire.
Seras’ transformation is a pivotal moment in the story of Hellsing, as it sets the stage for the intense battles and complex moral dilemmas that the series’ characters must face. The transformation also serves as a powerful reminder of the dangers of power and the importance of using it responsibly and with compassion.
Overall, Seras’ transformation in Hellsing is a memorable and impactful moment in the series, and it stands as a testament to the power of transformation in anime storytelling.
A big shout-out to Elena Viuova for posting this awesome article on our blog! Welcome to the D&A Anime Blog Family! 🙂
In my review for the season premiere, I missed an important scene at the end of the episode. In it, Tanjiro’s in the woods near the swordsmith’s village when he stumbles upon a man who looks exactly like the one he saw in his dream in the episode. As we see in this episode, that man isn’t a man but a training dummy. A training dummy that puts 21st-century robotics to shame, at that! Modeled in the likeness of a long-dead Demon Slayer, it will help Tanjiro get stronger if he can get past the abrasive Hashira who called dibs on it. The Yoriichi Type Zero doll appears!
Muichiro Tokito, the Sand Paper Hashira
Picking up where the last episode left off, Tanjiro watches as one of the twelve Hashira, Muichiro Tokito, butts heads with this little blacksmith named Kotetsu. Muichiro demands to use the mechanical doll, the Yoriichi Type Zero so that he can get stronger. However, that young blacksmith refuses, not wanting it to get damaged. The Yoriichi doll was made by his ancestors three hundred years ago, and it’s so advanced they don’t know how to repair it if it gets damaged.
Muichiro doesn’t care, though. After knocking Tanjiro out for trying to intervene, the Hashira proceeds to train with it and chops off one of the arms! Muichiro’s officially the Mist Hashira, but he might as well be the Sand Paper Hashira. He’s so abrasive and arrogant he makes the likes of Sasuke, Bakugo, and Vegeta look pleasant in comparison.
So, Tanjiro and this little boy, Kotetsu, aren’t going to take this disrespect lying down. Even though he’s only ten and knows he can’t fix the doll if it breaks anymore, Kotetsu doesn’t care. He goes full drill sergeant and forces Tanjiro to try without rest or food until he can beat the thing. It gets so bad, Tanjiro has to drink the rainwater to stay upright!
It’s worth it, though, to fight the Yoriichi doll.
The Six-Armed Demon Slaying Doll
There needs to be a way to discuss the person who the doll was modeled after without spoiling the manga. For now, the important thing to know is that Yoriichi was a Demon Slayer who lived three hundred years ago and was a master swordsman. He was so powerful that swordsmiths had to give the Type Zero doll six arms to capture his skill with a blade fully. In addition, as Tanjiro discovers from his dreams, this man eventually meets Tanjiro’s ancestors. The earrings that Tanjiro wears match the ones Yoriichi wore in the dream. In other words, the Kamado family was close to this man.
That doesn’t do a lot of good for Tanjiro, though. Despite his best efforts, his exhaustion (and Kotetsu’s drill Sgt. behavior) almost get the better of him. However, in true Shonen fashion, pushing himself to his limits lets Tanjiro unlock a new power. And while I don’t understand how smelling the doll’s attacks works, I don’t need to understand it. It allowed him to beat the doll…and break it.
The Perfect Sword for Tanjiro, Courtesy of Yoriichi
As shocking as it was to see the Type Zero doll break thanks to Tanjiro’s training, what’s more, surprising is that a sword is embedded inside the doll. It may have shocked Tanjiro and Kotetsu, but I know why it was in the doll. I guess that Yoriichi himself put the sword inside the doll that bears its likeness as a reward. Anyone strong enough to beat the Yoriichi Type Zero would be good enough to wield the blade within. In other words, it’s likely that the sword’s special.
Again, I never read the manga, so I am still determining what will happen next. However, I’m willing to bet that that mystery blade will become Tanjiro’s new weapon of choice before this arc ends—the perfect tool to kill Muzan’s evil Demons.
This season’s gotten off to a slow start, lacking the ecstasy-inducing action we saw in the Entertainment District’s climax. However, once things get underway, Demon Slayer will start breaking the Internet again. I look forward to seeing what happens and learning more about Yoriichi in anime form.
When we last left off with Tanjiro, he was going through training from Hell, fighting against an advanced training doll modeled after a legendary Demon Slayer. He eventually overcame it, but broke the doll in the process. However, he ended up getting the prize inside: a new sword! The bad news, though, is that the sword’s rusted from 300 years of neglect. That, and the Demons found the Swordsmith Village. That’s not good.
You Can’t Just Show Up, Mr. Haganezuka
Just as Kotetsu and Tanjiro are lamenting the rusty sword, none other than the swordsmith Haganezuka appears, demanding they hand over the blade for him to fix. Since he bailed on them in the first place and just says, “leave it to me!” this leads to some Shonen comedy. Tanjiro has every right to not let Haganezuka work on the sword since he bailed on him when he arrived. Since another swordsmith explains that Haganezuka had gone to train to make the ideal sword for Tanjiro, though, all is forgiven. The sword-polishing process will take three days, though.
In the meantime, though, the world of anime gets blessed with the light of adorableness that is Nezuko. Getting to see Tanjiro braid her hair to look like the Love Hashira is so adorable, as are Nezuko’s antics. She even manages to make Muichiro let his guard down a little. Despite me calling him the “Sand Paper Hashira” last week, Muichiro at least manages to talk civilly with Tanjiro and Nezuko.
Since its anime debut in 2019, Demon Slayer has risen to international superstardom. With a cast of memorable characters, incredible music, and animation so good it borders on otherwordly, Demon Slayer is one of the biggest names in Shonen anime. So when a new season drops, people pay attention to it, like they are right now.
During the events of the last season, Tanjiro and his comrades emerged from their toughest battle yet in the Entertainment District Arc. That battle reduced the location to rubble and left every Demon Slayer terribly injuries, but it was worth it. For the first time in a century, the Demon Slayers took out one of the feared Upper Six, AKA Muzan’s strongest Demons. The upside is that this could mark a shift in the war between the two factions. The downside? Tanjiro’s broken his sword for the umpteenth time, forcing him to get it repaired. With this as the backdrop, Demon Slayer heads into its third season and the Swordsmith Village Arc.
The Upper Six Demons Terrifying…ly Dysfunctional.
With the death of the Upper Rank Six holders Daki and Gyutaro, the King of Demons Muzan is not happy with his followers. Thus, he summons them to his lair in the Infinity Castle to remind them why they shouldn’t fail him. This marks the first time we see the rest of Upper Rank Six in person, and, in true Demon Slayer form, they’re all horrifying to look at. Their bodies are misshapen and distorted, with one Demon having mouths where his eyes should be and eyes where his mouths should be. They’re the stuff of nightmares!
At the same time, though, one thing becomes clear about the Upper Ranks: they’re on the same side, but they’re not a team. They make constant, mean-spirited jabs at each other…or flat-out try to kill one another. They’re at each other’s throats jockeying for power, and its only the power of Muzan and the Upper Rank One, Kokushibo, that keeps them in line. In short, they give off the impression of beings that, were it not for their powers, would be easy pickings for the Demon Slayers. That, or they would kill each other.
Tanjiro Awakens, and Hilarity Ensues
While all of this is going on, Tanjiro’s been out cold following the fight with Daki and Gyutaro, during which he has a strange dream. He seems a man who looks much like himself, minus the burn scar, speaking with a man wearing the earrings he now wears. Those who read the manga know who these two are and how important they are to the story. Anime-only people, though, have to wait for this to be revealed down the line. In the meantime, Tanjiro wakes up, much to everyone’s joy.
Especially Inosuke. He wouldn’t stop screaming at him to wake up from his spot on the ceiling.
Following yet another rehab session, though, Tanjiro hits a bit of a snag: his sword broke for the umpteenth time. Now the one who forged it is so mad, he’s refusing to make it again. As a result, Tanjiro and Nezuko have to go to the Demon Slayer Corps secret swordsmith village and get it fixed there.
Swordsmith Village: So Secret No One Can Know Where it is!
Calling the swordsmith village a secret is an understatement. It’s the Demon Slayer Corps most closely guarded secret. Without it or its swordsmiths, the Demon Slayer Corps would be unable to create the treasured swords that help them slay Demons. They pull out all the stops to keep its location a secret from everyone, even their own members. I would call this paranoia, but given how dangerous Demons can be, they have good reason to be paranoid.
As someone who takes an interest in historical facts and settings, it was fun seeing what this ancient, revered village looks like. The forging of swords is an art form in Japan, so getting to see it up close, even in an anime, was fun to watch. In addition, this episode also sees the return of the love Misturi Kanroji. Beyond the fanservice, I can see why people like her; she’s nice. In contrast, we also meet Genya, another Demon Slayer who’s rude and abrasive to everyone, including Tanjiro and Nezuko. Both are interesting contrasts.
The Demons Are Going to Find the Swordsmith Village, Aren’t They?
Now, I would normally say that this Swordsmith Village arc is going to be peaceful to counter how explosive the Entertainment District Arc was. However, the fact that this village is so important invites people to target it. In other words, the Demons are coming, and they’re out for blood.
Overall, this was a decent start to the new season. I’m not as devout a follower of Demon Slayer as I am with other anime, but I can see the appeal behind it, and the animation’s amazing. Given everyone’s expectations, I’m hoping that the new season can build on the hype of the last one as we ring in the Spring 2023 season of anime.
Twelve years ago, Japan found itself wracked by the deadliest earthquake in its history. Tens of thousands lost their lives in the earthquake and tsunami. Hundreds of thousands lost their homes thanks to these things and the nuclear meltdown, and many have never been able to return home. This incident has deeply scarred Japan in recent years, with many only now coming to grips with what happened. Suzume, the latest film from the director of Your Name, Makoto Shinkai, addresses the effects of that great disaster. It does it not in some grandiose fashion, but in a surreal, retrospective way.
Also, there’s a talking chair.
What the Heck is Going On?!?
After a surreal dream, the film Suzume introduces us to our main protagonist, the titular Suzume, a normal high-school girl living in Kyushu with her aunt. Then one day, after meeting this stranger named Souta, she finds this magical doorway in some ruins and picks up the keystone she finds on the other side. However, by doing so, she ends ups freeing this supernatural monster that causes massive earthquakes whenever it gets out. Even weirder, Souta, whose job is to close these doors so this doesn’t happen, gets turned into a chair. Before Suzume can process what’s happening, she’s dragged on this cross-country road trip to find the keystone, turn Souta back to normal, and fix this mess before it can destroy Japan.
I could not make any of this up even if I tried. Given all of the strange things that can happen in anime, though, a guy getting turned into a chair isn’t the most bizarre thing I’ve seen.
Suzume is a Bizarre, Supernatural/Road trip/Disaster Film
When I was a teenager, I got to read a copy of the nonfiction book Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer. It told the real-life story of Chris McCandless, a young man who left his life behind to become a nomad, traveling across the United States before dying in the wilderness in Alaska. While the circumstances of his death are sad, the idea of traveling the world while young has a certain appeal to audiences. Thus, getting to see Suzume take this unplanned trip across most of Japan was an interesting idea. On the surface, she’s doing it to fix her mistake and help Souta, on the inside, she’s doing it to make peace with her traumatic past.
Without getting into too much detail, Suzume’s revealed to be a survivor of the 2011 Tohoku Earthquake and Tsunami. Twelve years onward, people are still trying to pick up the pieces from that great disaster. One moment, they’re leading normal lives, only for catastrophe to change everything forever. It’s a bitter reminder of how bad things happen without warning, and how easy it is for people to lose what hey hold dear the most.
I still remember hearing news about the disaster, and its clear that its something that Japan hasn’t forgotten what happened. It also ties back to Shinkai’s previous films, Weathering With You and Your Name. Both of them involved dealing with natural disasters via the supernatural. It was a means of coping with what happened, and a good one, at that.
Suzume Makes an Effort Not to Repeat the Romances of Shinkai’s Previous Films
While I’m a fan of Makoto Shinkai thanks to his previous works, I don’t think that Suzume reaches the same emotional highs as that of Your Name. However, one thing that sets it apart from Shinkai’s previous films is how there’s less of a focus on the romantic aspect. Which is good, too, because Suzume’s a high schooler while Souta’s at least a few years older, given that he’s stated to be in grad school. There is some chemistry between the two, but the film solves this by having Souta remain a chair the majority of the time.
While the idea of someone getting cursed into a chair might sound weird (and it is), it’s brilliant from a storytelling perspective. It allows Souta and Suzume’s relationship to develop in a platonic fashion during the film, eliminating the threat of shipping. In addition, it also allows Suzume to become introspective at times as she thinks about her traumatic past and how it’s affected her life. She doesn’t realize it until the end, but this whole journey has been to help teach her an important life lesson. That lesson being that, regardless of how sudden life can change, it can also leave people open to new experiences.
A Heartfelt, Coming-of-Age Story
Not everyone’s going to enjoy the movie Suzume. Compared to the likes of Your Name, it feels like Makoto Shinkai failed to recapture that great spark he had. However, the ones who do like it are in for a treat.
Suzume is a good movie about overcoming past trauma through the bonds we forge, and as always, the art and animation are breathtaking. The look of the sky alone is good enough for an art gallery! If you got a chance, I recommend you give this film a shot.
Ash and Pikachu End Their Run as the Heroes of Pokémon
Twenty six years, 1,200 episodes, three generations worth of fans, and the start of dozens of films. That’s how long the world has known Ash Ketchum and Pikachu. They have been the face of Pokémon since almost the very beginning. Ask anyone about Pokémon, and their faces are likely the first things that come to mind. However, now the franchise is entering into a new era, and Ash and Pikachu won’t be part of it as the main characters. This past Friday, the final episode of Ash and Pikachu’s journey premiered, giving millions of fans the chance to say one final goodbye to the boy and mouse that inspired so many of them.
Truthfully, though, this farewell, for now, was in the works for months. Last year, fans of Pokémon got to see Ash do the impossible: he became the Pokémon World Champion! For the boy who seemed to lose in almost every League he fought in, this was a moment many feared would never come to pass. Nintendo wouldn’t let it so they could keep sending him on adventures to promote the franchise. Yet he did it, and the world cheered.
Ash Starts His Next Journey Without Us
The only question left is, what now? Do Ash and Pikachu continue their journey, or will they rest on their laurels? The answer turns out to be a bit of both. Beginning in January, the series aired what amounted to an epilogue series. Ash and Pikachu continued their journey, Team Rocket continued their antics (though they briefly split up), and Ash reunited with his OG companions, Brock and Misty. It was the perfect way to bookend our time with Ash by reuniting the original trio for one last journey. Still, the question remains: what will Ash do now?
When you’ve devoted so much of your life to a goal and finally see it through, a scary thing is trying to figure out where to go after you succeed. Ash has served as someone capable of teaching people the significance of never giving up on a goal despite hardship. That’s an important lesson not even some adults understand, and eventually, despite fans thinking he’d never do it, he finally does. Therefore, it’s only fitting his final episode as the MC has Ash teach us what to do after we fulfill our dreams: set ourselves a new goal in life and work at it. In his case, Ash wants to go out and befriend every Pokémonin the world.
I wasn’t overly interested in this epilogue series, but I still consider it a fitting send-off for Ash and Pikachu for the time being. The one gripe I have is at the end of the finale where Ash sees a rainbow. In the first episode, Ash earnestly began his Pokémon journey after seeing a rainbow and the Legendary Pokémon, Ho-Oh. I think it was a missed opportunity not to have our time with him bookended by Ho-Oh returning. Regardless, it’s still a nice callback as we say goodbye to Ash for now.
And I do mean for now.
I Think We’ll See Ash and Pikachu Again Someday
Even though our travels with Ash are over, I doubt that we’ve seen the last of him. Ash and Pikachu have been the face of the Pokémon for decades, and there’s no way The PokémonCompany, Nintendo, Game Freak, and Creatures will let that fall by the wayside now. They’ll likely continue to call upon Ash and his Pikachu to appear in future projects for recognition purposes. In addition, they might decide to come back to the OG duo at some point.
There’s a precedent for this in pop culture. Everyone thought the Dragon Ball franchise had retired by the mid-2000s, only for the franchise to enter a renaissance with the release of Battle of Gods. The Animaniacs came back twenty years after it ended. The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder brought the Disney show to a new generation. If there’s still a big enough audience and potential stories to tell, then a brand or franchise will only stay there for a while. It’s a blessing and curse, but it might be a blessing in this case.
Until the day we see him again, though, thank you, Ash Ketchum and Pikachu. You made the childhoods of millions of people worthwhile, and we will never forget you. Sayonara, Satoshi!
Hey guys, this is Donte’ J. Lewis representing 1/2 of D&A Anime Blog and D&A Studios Entertainment. You probably already know the story by now of how D&A came to be; Aaron Goldman and I worked on a concept for a website where we could post our con pictures that we took, and after tossing many ideas back and forth, we created an anime blog consisting of convention pictures, and anime reviews. In 2016 we made our debut at the first annual AniMore convention; then several appearances at Otakon, Zenkaikon, Saikucon, Anime USA, and Thy Geekdom. We’ve met so many awesome people along the way during our venture, as well as many of our favorite voice actors we’ve come to know throughout the years. Saying all of this makes the next part of what I have to say really hard…harder than you can ever imagine as a blogger, and content creator.
After this post is published…I’ll be signing off from D&A.
I don’t regret ever creating D&A, and everything its done in the lives of both Aaron and I. I am more than grateful for all of the people I’ve met and had the privilege of meeting. To me; D&A is a story about dreams, and no matter what life throws at you, you should never give up on them even though the road is tough. I’ve been a fan of anime since 1997, and throughout the years and decades I’ve noticed the change in the way we consume it. With mainstream companies getting their foot into the market (and even buying anime-centric companies like FUNimation and Crunchyroll), it seems like a lot of the aspects that made anime and its community special, seem to be fading away. Anime is no longer that shy kid in the corner that was picked on in school, now its an adult with a 401K and a six-figure income.
Now it seems like my attitude towards anime has changed. While I still have a genuine love for it, I just don’t have the same level of time for it as I used to. These days IRL commitments have really demanded a lot of my attention, as well as on-going personal trials and a shift in priorities. Don’t worry, its nothing serious.
So…what happens now?
So, where does D&A go from here if I’m stepping down? That’s a good question. After an extensive discussion, Aaron and I have decided that he will be the one to take over as administrator of D&A Anime Blog. This means that contributor posts will have to be accepted by him, and only he can invite other contributors.
“If you’re leaving, what will happen to your Youtube channel?”
Our channel will be fine. Aaron will be posting content on a weekly basis, so there will always be content for you to watch. There’s also a very, very, veeeery slight chance that I’ll make a cameo appearance on our channel every once in a while.
“If you’re leaving, what will happen to convention appearances?”
That’s also a very good question. In the off-chance that Aaron does get booked for an anime convention, I will be there too. As for me, if I’m pulled out to a con as a DJ for the Friday and Saturday Night Rave, then you’ll know me as Avidd Minddset.
Alright guys, I’m gonna leave you with this. D&A started off as a passion project between two longtime friends, who were bullied during their school years because of their love for anime. It grew into something amazing; where they got to meet their childhood heroes, awesome cosplayers, and be a part of the anime community overall. Who knows what will happen to the future of D&A, and if it will finally reach its peak in becoming one of the best blogs out there. The fact that D&A even exists at all, is an accomplishment in its self.
So from the bottom of my heart, I love each and everyone of you guys, and thank you for making D&A such a fun ride for me. Aaron will be the one taking over D&A and its affiliates, as I will be stepping down. This will not effect our friendship in any way; as many were wondering if my departure from this project would mean the end of our friendship. Now…with all of that said, this is Donte’ J. Lewis signing off from D&A.
It’s been a fun ride, but all good things must come to an end, lest they end up like The Simpsons. In this case, Tomo-Chan, one of the best anime of the Winter 2023 season, came to a happy conclusion. In the last episode, Jun finally got the courage to tell Tomo that he loved her back. In some shows, that would mark the end of it and leave the rest up to the fans imaginations. However, there’s still one last problem to deal with. The same problem most people have to deal with regarding their romantic partners: the parent’s approval.
Grab some popcorn and get ready for some laughs.
Their First Romantic Christmas Together…Gets Derailed.
It’s the Holiday Season, and in Japanese Culture, Christmas is to them what Valentine’s Day is to people in the West: romance and spending time with your loved one. That makes it the perfect chance for Tomo and Jun to have their first real date. It goes as well as we’ve come to expect from these two.
On the one hand, Tomo gets embarrassed as hell when the romance film she picks out gets too steamy for her. On the other hand, she and Jun exchange presents with each other. On the other other hand, Jun and Tomo can’t take the next step and kiss and actually be boyfriend and girlfriend. As it turns out, Jun neglected to tell Tomo something important: her Dad said that if Jun wants to date his daughter…he’s got to beat him in a fight.
Tomo takes this news very poorly. She tells her Dad she hates him and refuses to speak with Jun for the rest of their break.
Mr. Aizawa’s Testing their Resolve
After catching up with Misuzu and Carol (who aren’t happy with her ditching them over break), Tomo vents all of her pent-up frustrations to the two. And while she claims she’s fine with waiting for Jun to be ready, it’s clear she’s lying to herself. She wants Jun to date her now, and I don’t blame her. She’s waited for years for Jun to return her feelings, and now she’s getting blocked by her Dad. It’s every teen’s worst nightmare.
While I don’t approve of his methods, I do understand why Tomo’s dad is doing this. He knows how strong and strong-willed her daughter is, so any guy who would want to date her should be able to keep up with her in both aspects. Otherwise, they’re not worthy of her time. Plus, it’s always been Jun’s goal to surpass him, so this kills two birds with one stone.
The fight (or at least the parts we see) isn’t wild like one you’d expect from a Shonen manga, but it’s still entertaining to watch. And with Tomo there to motivate her in her own, Tomo way, Jun actually manages to win!
Congratulations! Jun and Tomo are now boyfriend and girlfriend, and seal the deal with a kiss that makes the wait worth it. THE END.
No, really, that’s the end. The manga it’s based on was only four panels per chapter, and they managed to cover all of that in the span of twelve episodes.
Tomo-Chan: a short, sweet, and funny romcom anime.
So, in retrospect, how would I rate Tomo-Chan is Girl! as a series? Let’s see.
Firstly, we have the premise. I have seen plenty of romcom and harem anime that include a tomboy as one of the potential love interests. However, I think this might be the first romcom anime I’ve seen where the tomboy is the lead heroine. As a fan of tomboys in fiction, this felt like a breath of fresh air.
Next, we have the voice acting. I primarily watched this in dub form, and while I know some people prefer subbed, I think the English VA’s did a great job. Heck, Carol was voiced by the same person subbed and dubbed.
Lastly, there’s the show’s ace in the hole: the length. All too often, I’ve seen romcom anime that drag this “will they, won’t they” thing for as long as possible. Not Tomo-Chan, though. It sticks to its goal of getting from point A to point B and gets it done as efficiently as possible. I might be a little sad it’s over already, but it’s better than dragging its heels to the end like so many other romcom anime do across multiple seasons. That’s a win, in my book.
So, on that note, we say goodbye to one of the best romcom anime I’ve seen in years. It’s a shame we have to say goodbye already, but it was fun while it lasted.
I Give “To Stay by Your Side…” 4/5
THANKS FOR READING MY REVIEWS, EVERYONE! I HAD A LOT OF FUN!
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