The highly anticipated first film in the “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – Infinity Castle” trilogy has unveiled its new trailer, revealing that acclaimed musical artists Aimer and LiSA will contribute the film’s theme songs. This announcement has ignited excitement among fans, solidifying the cinematic event as a true culmination of the beloved anime series.
The Dawn of the Infinity Castle Arc
“Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba” has captivated audiences worldwide with its poignant narrative, breathtaking animation, and compelling characters. The story follows Tanjiro Kamado, a young boy who joins the Demon Slayer Corps to avenge his slaughtered family and find a cure for his sister Nezuko, who was transformed into a demon. Their journey has seen them battle formidable demons, often alongside the elite swordsmen known as the Hashira.
The “Infinity Castle Arc” is the penultimate arc of the original manga series by Koyoharu Gotouge, serving as the epic final showdown between the Demon Slayer Corps and the Demon King, Muzan Kibutsuji. The arc primarily takes place within Muzan’s titular Infinity Castle, an otherworldly dimension with constantly shifting rooms, halls, and distorted gravity. This chaotic environment sets the stage for a series of intense, emotional, and pivotal battles between the Demon Slayers and Muzan’s most powerful forces. Key confrontations expected in the film include battles like Tanjiro and Giyu Tomioka versus Akaza, Zenitsu versus Kaigaku, and the collective efforts of the Hashira against formidable Upper Rank demons like Kokushibo and Doma.
The “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – The Movie: Infinity Castle Arc,” officially subtitled “Akaza’s Return” for its first installment, is slated for a Japanese theatrical release on July 18, 2025. Following its debut in Japan, the film will begin its global rollout in August, with Crunchyroll and Sony Pictures Entertainment distributing it internationally. North American audiences, specifically in the United States and Canada, can expect to see the film in theaters starting September 12, 2025. The film will be available in both Japanese with English subtitles and an English dub. This cinematic endeavor is the first part of a planned trilogy that will adapt the concluding chapters of the manga, promising a grand finale to the acclaimed anime series.
A Symphony of Familiar Voices
The announcement of Aimer and LiSA performing the film’s theme songs has been met with widespread enthusiasm, largely due to their significant contributions to the “Demon Slayer” franchise’s musical legacy. Both artists have become synonymous with the series, their powerful vocals and distinctive styles having amplified some of its most iconic moments.
LiSA: A Pillar of Demon Slayer’s Sound
LiSA, whose full name is Risa Oribe, is a Japanese pop-rock singer known for her strong vocal performances and dynamic stage presence. Her connection to “Demon Slayer” dates back to the very beginning of the anime phenomenon. She famously performed “Gurenge” (紅蓮華; “Red Lotus”), the inaugural opening theme song for the first season of the television anime in 2019. “Gurenge” quickly became a cultural phenomenon, recognized for its high energy and emotional depth, perfectly encapsulating the series’ themes of struggle and perseverance.
Her contributions continued with “Homura” (炎), the award-winning theme song for “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – The Movie: Mugen Train,” which went on to become the highest-grossing anime film and Japanese film of all time. For the television adaptation of the Mugen Train Arc, LiSA returned to deliver both the opening theme “Akeboshi” and the ending theme “Shirogane.”
For the first “Infinity Castle” film, LiSA will perform the song “Shine in the Cruel Night” (Zankoku no Yoru ni Kagayake). Her consistent involvement underscores her integral role in shaping the sonic identity of “Demon Slayer.”
Aimer: A Voice of Profound Emotion
Aimer, known for her distinctive husky and emotive voice, is another celebrated Japanese artist who has left an indelible mark on the “Demon Slayer” soundscape. She made her debut in the franchise by performing both the opening theme “Zankyosanka” (残響散歌) and the ending theme “Asa ga Kuru” (朝が来る) for the “Entertainment District Arc.” “Zankyosanka” achieved significant commercial success, becoming her first song to top the Japan Hot 100 chart. Aimer’s intention with “Zankyosanka” was to create a theme song that “retains the brilliance symbolizing the work,” empathizing with the characters’ struggles and resolve.
For “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – The Movie: Infinity Castle Arc – Part 1: Akaza Returns,” Aimer will contribute the theme song “A World Where the Sun Never Rises” (Taiyō ga Noboranai Sekai). Her music often features sweeping melodies and profound lyrics, making her an ideal choice to capture the intense and often somber tone of the Infinity Castle Arc, which delves into the deepest parts of the demons’ stronghold and the final, desperate struggle for humanity.
The Impact of This Collaboration
The decision to feature both Aimer and LiSA for the “Infinity Castle” films is a strategic move that acknowledges their established connection with the franchise and their ability to deliver powerful, emotionally resonant music. Their combined presence on the soundtrack is expected to amplify the film’s dramatic impact and appeal to both long-time fans and new viewers. Both “A World Where the Sun Never Rises” and “Shine in the Cruel Night” will be available on global streaming platforms concurrently with the film’s Japanese release on July 18.
As the “Demon Slayer” narrative reaches its climatic conclusion, the evocative musical scores provided by Aimer and LiSA will undoubtedly play a crucial role in enhancing the emotional weight and epic scale of the battles within the Infinity Castle. Their previous works have demonstrated a profound understanding of the series’ core themes, and their latest contributions are poised to further cement their legacy as integral components of the “Demon Slayer” phenomenon. The fusion of Ufotable’s renowned animation with the potent vocals of these two musical powerhouses promises an unforgettable cinematic experience that will resonate deeply with audiences worldwide.
