Demon Slayer is often considered one of the best-produced anime of the modern era. It is often praised for its amazing animation, and the addition of exclusive anime scenes enhances the narrative. More often than not, this is considered an accurate adaptation of the manga.
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But even a show like Demon Slayer has its moments where it fails to fully capture the essence of the manga. While it doesn't directly affect the main plot, there were moments in the series that skipped over some details that could have given a better representation of the characters and their actions.
Demon Slayer: Best episode in each arc, ranked
Demon Slayer is made up of iconic and memorable story arcs, and for each one there is a single episode that stands above the rest.
Tanjiro vs. Spider Demon (Father)
Fans remember the Mount Natagumo arc as Tanjiro's first exposure to the threat of the twelve Kizuki. But before his epic battle with Rui, he met various members of the spider family. In episode 18, Father Spider Demon appeared as a formidable enemy in front of Tanjiro and Inosuke. Attempting to stop the towering demon, Tanjiro is thrown into the sky and despite using Second Form to cushion the impact, suffers a gruesome landing. But in the manga, he does the same successfully and lands gracefully and unharmed.
This small detail may seem trivial, but it is important when considering his upcoming battle against Rui. In the anime, she looks quite inexperienced and vulnerable before she meets Rui. But the manga shows his mastery over breathing techniques. Although still new, he assures that Tanjiro's rigorous training has prepared him for the challenge ahead. This addition makes his “victory” over Rui much more acceptable.
The deeper impact of Rengoku's death
The first episode of the Entertainment District Arc is a direct continuation of the tragic events of the Mugen Train Arc. Rengoku, before he died, asked Tanjiro to convey his last words to his family. Tanjiro was naturally shaken by his mate's death, but he also bore the responsibility of fulfilling Rengoku's last wish. The episode opens with Tanjiro missing, already on his way to fulfill Rengoku's last wish; he is shown trotting down the road despite his injury. Senjuro also asks him about his well-being because of the pale look on his face.
While the agony of Rengkou's death on Tanjiro was evident in the anime, it is portrayed better in the manga. Unlike the anime, in the manga a sense of urgency and unease was also implied in this scene. Tanjiro hurriedly left without picking up the bed, showing that he was completely engrossed in Rengoku's departure at the moment, causing him to skip things he would normally do. Also, when he arrived at Rengoku's house, he looked much more exhausted, indicating that he was probably wearing himself out along the way. This little addition makes this scene more impressive in the manga.
Tanjiro's presence left a stronger impression
The Rehabilitation Training Arc introduced Tanjiro to the Butterfly Mansion members, on whom he left a lasting impression. These emotions are prevalent in both manga and anime. But the manga shows Kiyo, Sumi, and Naho not only celebrating Tanjiro's every success, but they are also seen crying with joy. At first they cry when he successfully breaks the gourd after receiving sustained support from the young sidekick trio. As Tanjiro and his companions bid them farewell, they are once again caught crying.
This also applies to Kanao. In the anime, she is dazzled after talking to Tanjiro. But in the manga, not only is she dazzled, she also trips and shows her awkward yet human side that wasn't shown in the anime. These scenes highlight Tanjiro's ability to truly connect with people through his kindness. Kana's additional moment can also be seen as the beginning of her romantic interest in Tanjiro.
Zenitsu's affection for Nezuko is shown better
In Season 1, Episode 25, during the Rehabilitation Training Arc, the anime shows the trio of Tanjiro, Inosuke, and Zenitsu trying their best to become stronger for the upcoming missions. Tanjiro and Inosuke also get their swords repaired which were damaged in the Battle of Mount Natagumo. As Inosuke smashes his newly delivered sword, Tanjiro restrains an angry Kanamori, giving fans an unforgettable comic scene. But in the midst of this chaos, the anime skips a scene that viewers would like to see.
In the manga, Zenitsu is seen talking to Nezuko in a box. He happily tells Nezuko about his daily affairs while holding a flower. He talks about his companions and expresses his admiration for Tanjiro. He also promises to take her to the place where the flower bloomed. Nezuko is seen to respond by scratching the box. Although it is not clear whether her reaction was positive or negative. This small but cute scene highlights Zenitsu's affection for Nezuko, which continues to grow in the later seasons.
How Demon Slayer Humanized Demons
Demons may be the antagonists in Demon Slayer, but the series always does a good job of humanizing its villains.
Although the addition of these moments could have definitely elevated the Demon Slayer series. But that still doesn't take away from the fact that it's still one of the most iconic ongoing anime.
Demon Slayer is available to watch on Crunchyroll and Netflix.
- Release date
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April 6, 2019
- Network
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Swimming for adults
