Demon Slayer’s latest Episode may be one of Anime’s Greatest

Last Saturday, Netflix released the latest episode of the world-renowned anime Demon Slayer, otherwise known as Kimetsu no Yaiba. This marked the tenth episode of the “Entertainment District Arc”, and it featured some of the smoothest and most beautiful animation I have seen in any 2-D media ever.

According to reports from Anime analytical websites Fandom Wire and Anime Galaxy, the average budget for DS episodes range from $80,000-$90,000. The figure was repeatedly sourced as fans noted how the series showcased some of the best animations in recent years. However, with this most recent arc scheduled for about 11 episodes, the approximate budget would be around $1 million – $2 million. Although it is worth mentioning that the masterful quality of the recent episodes could skew this estimate by a large margin.

To those who have yet to watch, I highly recommend starting the series as soon as possible. As it is, in my opinion, one of the best anime for those not familiar with the genre. The latest episode features breathtaking action sequences, emotional scenes, and a similar feeling to that of a roller coaster. With ups and downs, it is not an exaggeration to say that it is one of, if not, the best episodes the series has released to date.

The highest praise should be awarded to Studio Ufotable as their team has consistently produced some of the best series’ in recent years. Additionally, it is worth noting that their work can be accomplished as the studio provides an ample amount of money for their projects.

While money isn’t everything, it is inexplicably noticeable when a studio gives its animators a cushion to work with as seen in other notable series such as Naruto, Jujutsu Kaisen, Attack on Titan, and Black Clover. Each of these series is known to have outstanding visuals and they all cost at least $100,000 per episode. On the other hand, a series that has been rushed and underfunded can result in tragedy as is the case for Nantsu no Taizai.

Nanatsu no Taizai a.k.a. Seven Deadly Sins, initially had decent animation. However, as the third season came, the producers had to give it up and pass it on to another animation studio. The studio that took over the series was incredibly rushed and was forced to outsource to other animators. Due to the rushed nature of the project, fans of the series immediately noticed the severe drop in quality and labeled it the Seven Deadly Frames (a jab at the low fps seen in the anime).

Overall, while I am not someone that thinks of money as the be-all-end-all, artists need to be given ample time and resources if they are expected to produce extraordinary results. Furthermore, if a project deserves the time and attention then the added beauty provided by these animators will make a fan’s experience exponentially more enjoyable.

Source: CBR, HITC