Demon Slayer has taken the anime world by storm with its breathtaking animation and emotional depth. Its soaring popularity raises the question: can Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle leap from cult hit to Oscar contender in 2026? While the buzz is strong, the journey from blockbuster to Oscar winner is complicated. Will it break through Hollywood’s walls or remain a dazzling cult classic beloved by fans?

Could a film that packs a punch in every frame turn the Academy’s gaze to anime like never before?

Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle’s Oscar chances are strong thanks to stunning visuals, gripping storytelling, and blockbuster box office success. The film’s craftsmanship rivals top animated features, appealing worldwide. The Academy’s recent embrace of international animation like Studio Ghibli’s works adds momentum to its hopes. Such artistic and commercial impact makes Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle a serious contender.

However, despite contending graphics as high as those of Genshin Impact, Demon Slayer faces tough odds. The Academy historically favors original, standalone stories, while Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle is deeply tied to a franchise and based on a manga. These factors diminish its chances in major categories, relegating it more to fan favorite status than award darling. This pattern fits the trajectory of other anime films at the Oscars.

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Only two anime films have claimed Oscars, already setting a higher bar that Demon Slayer aims to challenge.

Only two anime films have ever won Oscars: Studio Ghibli’s Spirited Away in 2003 and The Boy and the Heron in 2024, both helmed by Hayao Miyazaki. Spirited Away was the first Japanese, hand-drawn, non-English film to win. These wins remain rare exceptions, underscoring the uphill climb for Demon Slayer despite its quality and popularity.

Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle pushes the franchise with epic battles and emotional depth, thrilling fans and critics. Its success cements Demon Slayer’s place in anime history. Still, despite artistic brilliance, it faces similar barriers at the Oscars as previous anime adaptations. Its legacy will shine brightly, trophy or no trophy, changing global animation forever.

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Do you think Demon Slayer; Infinity Castle is going to be the next anime-helmed number to grace the Oscars with a win? Let us know in the comments below.