POV: A hyped shonen movie, sold-out theatre, and the power of shared energy

I watched Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle, a hyped shonen anime movie on the big screen and it had me thinking about the electric feeling of collective experiences.because at some level, we all want to see ourselves grow, find strength and believe. It is a universal impulse, the search for inspiration and community. This common interest often becomes a common language for people to connect. Maybe that is why, as children, we collected Pokémon cards, launched our Beyblades into improvised arenas, or shouted “Goku, take my spirit energy” with complete conviction, as though our voices could actually make a difference. 

Today, the growing pull of nostalgic trends and the rise of what is often called “kidulting” feels almost inevitable. In a time when uncertainty, anxiety, and fatigue seem to define much of our daily lives, it is not surprising that many turn to the comforts of the past. Revisiting childhood obsessions or reimagining familiar rituals is less about escapism than it is about searching for stability. It is about reclaiming a sense of joy and community in a culture that often feels fractured and transient.

Demon Slayer might not be the best anime I have ever watched, and I would probably roll my eyes at anyone who insists it is the greatest thing ever made. But I have come to realise that, admitting every now and then, that you enjoyed an overhyped film or that a predictable emotional scene actually moved you to tears is not such a terrible thing. Maybe it is not so bad to let yourself get swept up in the excitement of something everyone seems to be talking about. In contrast to the popular opinion, being part of a trending conversation can be a beautiful thing. Being moved by a character’s development or believing in yourself because a shonen protagonist made you think, 'if he can do it, maybe I can too,' is beautiful.

Watching the Demon Slayer movie made me believe that monoculture might be farther from becoming a relic than we often think. When I think back on the story my friend told me, I feel like we need more things that get us out of our rooms. Something that give us a reason to travel a little, save up, or rearrange our day just to be there. And I think this movie was able to do that!

Have you seen the movie yet? Share your thoughts and personal review with us in the comments below!

For more such content, follow us@socialketchup