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**’Demon Slayer’ Anime Film Smashes Records, Sony Sees Anime as Key to Future Growth**

LOS ANGELES – “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba — Infinity Castle” has become a global phenomenon, grossing over $555 million worldwide and becoming the highest-grossing Japanese film ever. Its North American success, with over $104 million in two weekends, has stunned the industry and cemented anime’s place as a mainstream force.

In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Crunchyroll President Rahul Purini attributes the film’s success to the brand’s popularity, the high-quality animation, and the passionate fanbase. He noted the surprising turnout during the opening weekend and expects the film to have “longer legs” than most.

Purini emphasized that anime fandom is no longer niche, citing the film’s success as concrete proof. He highlighted the diverse audience, dispelling myths about it being primarily Asian, and noted the strong engagement from Gen Z and Gen Alpha, along with older demographics.

The film’s success is seen as a validation of Sony’s strategy, which acquired Crunchyroll in 2020 and has since positioned anime as a core growth engine. The integration of Sony’s various divisions, including Aniplex, Crunchyroll, and Sony Pictures, was crucial in turning the Japanese animated film into a global hit. According to Sony Pictures Entertainment CEO Ravi Ahuja, the close collaboration across Sony’s far-flung units helped turn the Japanese animated feature into a global tentpole of Pixar scale

Purini hinted at the potential for future “Demon Slayer” films, confirming that the partnership with Aniplex and Ufotable is ongoing. While release dates for the next two films in the trilogy are yet to be determined, Purini acknowledged the “urgency” to bring more “Demon Slayer” content to fans. There is anticipation that the next films could have even bigger budgets and spectacle.

The theatrical success of “Infinity Castle” is expected to benefit Crunchyroll’s streaming service, merchandising, and other ventures. The company hopes to convert new viewers into dedicated fans, offering them a gateway into the wider world of anime. With the streaming space becoming increasingly competitive, Crunchyroll believes its deep connections with the anime community position it for continued success.

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