Could Chainsaw Man Reze Arc Be Japan’s Next Billion-Yen Anime Movie?
Japanese pop culture news edited by Patrick Macias
Film industry insiders in Japan see potential to rival Jujutsu Kaisen 0 at 13.8B yen (about $94M)
Short 99-minute runtime may boost repeat viewership and ticket sales
MAPPA, one of Japan’s leading anime studios, aims to cement its theatrical dominance
Chainsaw Man Hits Theaters With Massive Expectations
The Chainsaw Man: Reze Arc movie opens in Japan on September 19, 2025, and is already being treated as one of the year’s most important anime releases. Adapted from Tatsuki Fujimoto’s best-selling manga, the film continues directly from the 2022 TV anime and marks the franchise’s theatrical debut. With more than 30 million copies sold, anticipation is running high.
Analysts are quick to compare Chainsaw Man with Demon Slayer and Jujutsu Kaisen, two Shonen Jump titles that became billion-yen juggernauts. Jujutsu Kaisen 0 grossed 13.8B yen (about $94M), while Demon Slayer: Mugen Train hit 40B yen (around $270M). The big question is whether Chainsaw Man has the same momentum to cross 10B yen (about $67M) and secure blockbuster status.
Short Runtime Strategy Could Help Maximize Repeat Theater Attendance
At 99 minutes, the runtime is leaner than competitors, making it easier for theaters to schedule extra showings. Industry watchers note that shorter anime films often benefit from repeat viewings, a proven box office booster. That dynamic could push the film closer to the billion-yen tier and broaden audience reach.
Japan’s Theater Boom Could Help Chainsaw Man Reach Blockbuster Status
MAPPA, one of Japan’s top animation studios and the company behind Jujutsu Kaisen and Attack on Titan Final Season, has poured resources into cinematic quality. Early reviews describe large-scale action sequences that rival Hollywood tentpoles while balancing them with heartfelt character drama. The PG-12 rating ensures broad accessibility, a key factor in maximizing ticket sales.
Japan’s post-andemic box office has seen anime films consistently outperform expectations. Premium screenings are already being expanded, and overseas rollout plans are expected soon. If momentum holds, Chainsaw Man: Reze Arc could slice past 10B yen (about $67M) and establish itself as a global franchise pillar while further cementing MAPPA’s status as anime’s most bankable studio.