“Demon Slayer-The Movie-Mugen Train”, directed by Haruo Sotozaki, finally hit North American theaters on April 23. It became the highest grossing movie in Japan’s history—surpassing the movie “Spirited Away”—and made $21 million on its opening weekend domestically. Fans of “Demon Slayer”, the TV series, can expect two hours of top tier animation, riveting action sequences and a roller coaster of emotions in the film.

Adapted from the manga of the same name written by Koyoharu Gotoge, the “Demon Slayer” anime follows main protagonist, Tanjiro Kamado—whose family is mercilessly killed by a demon—with only his younger sister Nezuko left alive, but, Nezuko has been turned into a demon herself. Tanjiro becomes a demon slayer in order to help fight demons and turn back his sister. After a few adventures and training montages, the last episode of the anime left fans on standby for two years in anticipation for this movie

“Mugen Train” picks up right where the show leaves off, as the main characters are at a train station ready to board. “Mugen Train” follows main characters, Tanjiro, Zenitsu and Inosuke as they assist fan favorite Rengoku, the Flame Hashira—one of the most skilled demon slayers—to investigate the reported disappearances on the Mugen train.

The film blends in the comedy it is known for with some of the most beautifully animated fight sequences—and that may be an understatement. Something as simple as a character drawing his sword can demonstrate their power. Rengoku, for example, shone as his sword slashed opponents, leaving vivid red and yellow flames in its wake. The animation was expertly complemented by epic music and sound effects that made for a mesmerizing experience, which added to the emotion of the movie on top of the stellar voice over in the subtitle version. Those new to the world of “Demon Slayer” can still enjoy the film on its own without having seen the show but, the film’s enjoyment reaches its full potential once having binged the 26 episodes beforehand.

The film does drag occasionally; for example, when Tanjiro and the other demon slayers had been asleep for a good amount of time and wished they would wake up already for the action to start. But the dream sequences were entertaining enough to stay interested in the storyline. Once one of the demon slayers finally awoke, it was a straight sprint to the finish with swords flying and bones breaking along the way.

Throughout the movie, Rengoku became a mentor to the other characters and easily stole the attention of viewers. He will become a fan favorite due to his quirky yet stoic personality, his backstory and, of course, his display of badassery. He demonstrates his ability as one of the best demon slayers—which is why he has the title of the Flame Hashira. The best moments and the best fight scenes happen when he’s on the screen. Although the villains of this movie are not fleshed out, they serve their purpose, which is to have epic fights for the audience to enjoy.

Overall, this movie is exactly what fans hoped for and can be enjoyed for newcomers to the “Demon Slayer” world. Either way it will have viewers practicing their sword skills and Japanese on their way home.