Hashira Training Arc didn't start out in such a predictable style however. From the opening minutes of the first episode, we witness the Hashira doing what they do best: exterminate demons. It leads with Wind Hashira Sanemi Shinazugawa and Serpent Hashira Obanai Iguro doing work and protecting the public. What started as a trailblazing chase ends in a bizarre twist when we see a labyrinth of walls and demons literally spawn out of nowhere. It's a confusing segment that needs more explanation but this season won't have those answers. Flashforward to rest of the episode and we open our eyes to the reality of this arc: Hashira Training.
As it says, this is essentially a training arc meaning that everything you see is related, connected to, or associated with training. It's an extended preparation for our main characters to take on the Upper Moon Demons and Muzan himself. Up to this point, it's established that the highest ranking demons are eons above the average generic demons and even the lower ranks. In order to reach the same level, this arc has the cast training in blood, sweat, and tears. The season also explores some of the background storytelling and motivations among the Hashira members, noticably Giyu and Tengen. Each episode also pits Tanjiro, Zenitsu, among others to train in different styles. The season aims for a diverse range of training sessions but let's be honest here, the storytelling all sells the same product. Once you've seen one or two of these episodes, it feels like you've seen them all.
Nonetheless, this is an important arc to prepare the cast physically, mentally, and emotionally. However, this season will be a big disappointment if you're seeking for action. Compared to all the previous seasons and even movies, this has the least amount of fighting sequences and direct conflicts. You really should not expect a training arc to have battles on the frontlines. Instead, we got character connections and how some can relate to others based on their past and present experiences. Muzan and his Upper Demons are also plotting behind the scenes as we see glimpses of their characters. There's no doubt this season is preparing for the Hashira to take them on in th their eventual conflict, like events destined to happen.
We would be lying to ourselves if we said ufotable didn't do a stellar job. Once again stepping up to the plate to deliver an animation extravaganza, they set the bar this season with quality. Character designs, settings, and emotions are protrayed at the highest quality, similar to previous season. Even if you find this arc itself monotonous to follow, it contains jawbreaking animation and groundbreaking chereography. It truly is a visual feast of the season.
Controversy is a word that will be bought up when fans describe this season. It contains 8 episodes but all of it is set up to prepare our cast for their inveitable battles. Even with an extended 1-hour season finale, let me just say that this serve as a prep season. The real meal is up to fans to feast on later.
