Core Insights - The surge in Japanese animated films in China is driven by the rapidly growing "pan-2D" consumer group, which has shown significant spending power in retail and content consumption [1][4] - "Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle Chapter" has set a new record for pre-sale box office for imported animated films in China, with a pre-sale revenue of 1.81 billion yuan and a first-day box office of 1.37 billion yuan, accumulating over 4 billion yuan in five days [1][2] - The film's success is attributed to its broad appeal beyond core fans, attracting a significant number of "pan-2D" audience members, which has contributed to its box office performance [4][16] Industry Trends - In 2023, China has imported 8 Japanese animated films, with a noticeable reduction in the time gap between their release in Japan and their introduction in China [3] - The film industry is seeing a diversification of distribution channels, with new vertical brands and traditional licensing companies actively expanding their copyright businesses [3] Film Specifics - "Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle Chapter" is the first film in the series to be released in Chinese theaters, with a reported exclusive copyright acquisition by Maoyan Entertainment for approximately 70 million yuan [2] - The film features a three-part theatrical release strategy, focusing on key battles and character development, which aligns with commercial storytelling logic [8][18] - The film's animation quality is enhanced by advanced techniques, including the use of "3D modeling" and "three-dimensional rendering," which have elevated the visual experience [14][15] Audience Engagement - The film has successfully attracted a diverse audience, including those who may not be familiar with the entire series, thanks to its accessible storytelling and emotional depth [10][16] - The marketing strategy has included collaborations with various brands, enhancing the film's visibility and audience anticipation [8] Technical Achievements - The film has achieved significant box office success in IMAX theaters, contributing 23% of its total revenue despite only occupying 1% of the national screen count [11] - The production company, Ufotable, is recognized for its high-quality animation and has maintained a consistent output schedule, which has bolstered its reputation in the industry [7][13]