I’ve been watching anime since high school. For more than 25 years I’ve enjoyed and consumed this incredible art form, though I wouldn’t call myself a die-hard fan or a “weeb,” as the term goes.

That said, I do listen almost exclusively to anime podcasts, I read manga, and I get immense joy from a wide range of series and films. Some of my favorites include Fullmetal Alchemist, Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End, and Blue Period. I’ve also always had a soft spot for anime films classics like Akira, Macross, and more recently the Ultraman movie all hit me in that perfect way.

Naturally, I’m aware of the towering “must-watch” series that dominate the conversation. For years now, one of the biggest has been Demon Slayer.

Well, I finally bit the bullet and dove in. Not only did I catch up on the series—blazing through season one, the Mugen Train arc, and the most recent episodes, I also went to see Infinity Castle with a family member on the big screen.

And I have to say: the show is remarkable. The art is dazzling, the mythology is rich and powerful, and the writing gives the characters a depth that makes every encounter feel alive. What surprised me most, though, was how often the show tugged at my heartstrings, especially through the demons. They aren’t painted as faceless villains. Each one carries a story of human tragedy, which makes their downfall all the more devastating and the series as a whole so much more profound.

In the end, I finally understand why Demon Slayer has become such a cultural phenomenon. It’s not just spectacle or style (though it has plenty of both). It’s a story that reminds us of the fragile humanity buried within even the darkest of monsters, and that’s what makes it unforgettable.