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“Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – The Movie: Infinity Castle” continues to dominate the U.S. box office, holding the top spot in its second weekend with a projected $16 million, just ahead of Jordan Peele’s latest production, “Him”. Despite a steep drop from its debut, the anime phenomenon confirms its global appeal and unshakable fanbase.
Demon Slayer still setting the pace
After a massive $70 million opening, “Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle” experiences a 77 percent dip in its second frame, yet manages to cling to the number one spot. Distributed by Crunchyroll and Sony, the film has now reached a staggering $419.2 million globally — a number that speaks for itself. The franchise, already revered by anime fans worldwide, has clearly struck a chord in the U.S. as well.
I watched this one on opening night, and honestly, it felt like stepping into a cinematic storm. The animation is breathtaking, and the intensity of the narrative never lets up. It’s loud, emotional, overwhelming in the best way. Even if you’re not into anime, it’s hard not to be swept away by this kind of energy.
The film’s success also points to something deeper: anime is no longer niche in the West. With releases like this pulling in tentpole-level numbers, studios might just start treating anime debuts like true blockbusters — and rightly so. To read Charlize Theron and Taron Egerton face off in 2026’s Apex trailer
Jordan Peele’s “Him” gives chase
Not far behind is “Him”, directed by Justin Tipping and produced by Peele’s Monkeypaw. With an estimated $15 million weekend and a $6.4 million Friday, it’s a strong showing, though critical reception hasn’t been as favorable. The film earned a C- CinemaScore and has left viewers somewhat divided. While some praise its atmospheric dread and timely themes, others have been less forgiving.
The story centers on Tyriq Withers, playing a young NFL prospect whose life unravels after a traumatic brain injury. Marlon Wayans plays a shadowy mentor figure — a legendary quarterback with his own demons. The concept is haunting and relevant, tackling identity, pressure, and mental health in the world of elite sports.
I haven’t seen this one yet, but I’m intrigued. Peele’s name alone carries expectations, and even if this isn’t a masterpiece, it feels like an attempt to innovate within the horror genre. Maybe imperfect, but definitely ambitious — and I’m always here for that kind of risk-taking.
A misfire for Margot Robbie and Colin Farrell
Meanwhile, “A Big Bold Beautiful Journey” is struggling to find its audience. Directed by Kogonada — who brought us the meditative and grounded “After Yang” — and starring Margot Robbie and Colin Farrell, the romantic fantasy is projected to earn just $3.8 million this weekend, landing in sixth place.
Robbie’s first starring role since “Barbie” was expected to carry more weight at the box office. But with a B- CinemaScore and tepid reviews, it seems the film’s quiet tone and artful direction may have clashed with mainstream expectations. To read Ranking Shyamalan’s Hits: Which Film Defines His Legacy?
There’s something bittersweet about this. I admire Kogonada’s filmmaking. His visuals are thoughtful, composed, poetic. But it’s tricky when a movie this subtle arrives marketed like a grand fantasy. I get the disconnect. I just wish more people had given it a shot on its own terms.
The box office’s current Top 5
Stepping back to look at the rest of the weekend slate, we see a mix of horror, drama, and nostalgia still pulling in crowds:
- The Conjuring: The Last Rites – $12.1 million in its third weekend. The franchise still draws horror fans in, though momentum is slowing.
- The Long Walk – $6.4 million. A solid performance for Lionsgate’s emotional character-driven narrative.
- Downton Abbey: The Finale – $6.1 million. The Crawley family bows out, and their loyal fans clearly showed up for the farewell.
It’s an interesting weekend. On one side, you have a Japanese anime feature crushing it globally. On the other, studio dramas and horror films trying to hold ground, some succeeding, others less so. There’s no single rule guiding audience interest right now — and that unpredictability, frankly, is what makes box office weekends like this so fascinating.
