Demon Slayer has carved a singular path to cinema success, even as One Piece dominates manga sales. The films extend the manga’s narrative in a way that makes attendance feel essential rather than optional.
Demon Slayer’s cinema-driven strategy
Infinity Castle has pulled in approximately $648 million worldwide, a tally that outstrips many major live-action franchises. The film functions as a canonical bridge, advancing the story rather than serving as a standalone diversion.
One Piece’s film tradition
One Piece movies tend to be beloved adventures that sit outside the main arc. They showcase top-tier animation and memorable spectacle, but rarely rewrite the saga’s core timeline. For Toei, licensing, merchandise, and games are pivotal revenue streams that often outpace box-office grosses.
Could a canon finale movie shift the odds?
Some observers contend that turning the final arc into a cinematic chapter could unlock new box-office potential. A budgeted feature could deliver a climactic confrontation and a sense of culmination that draws both veterans and newcomers. It would demand a shift in production approach, but the upside could rival Demon Slayer’s numbers.
Bottom line
One Piece remains a juggernaut across sales, merchandising, and live-action interest. Demon Slayer’s cinema-first approach demonstrates what a canon-driven film can achieve, but the franchise’s true footprint isn’t limited to the theater. A canon movie could elevate its cinematic ceiling, even as its broader appeal endures through ongoing anime, manga, and licensing efforts.
Source: Original article
