The Rise of Dark Shonen: Why “Chainsaw Man” is Shaping the Future of Anime and Manga
The anime and manga landscape is undergoing a shift, driven by the success of titles like Chainsaw Man. Initially praised for its blend of comedy, graphic violence, and surprisingly emotional depth, the series, penned by Tatsuki Fujimoto, has experienced exponential growth in popularity, particularly following the 2025 film, Chainsaw Man — The Movie: Reze Arc. This success isn’t isolated. it signals a broader trend towards darker, more psychologically complex narratives within the shonen genre.
The Appeal of Brutality and Emotional Resonance
Chainsaw Man distinguishes itself through its striking visual depictions of battles, where devils wield destructive weaponry. The film, Chainsaw Man — The Movie: Reze Arc, exemplifies this with Reze, as Bomb Girl, capable of immense destruction. Fujimoto’s detailed and often gruesome approach to the shonen battle formula sets it apart. This isn’t simply shock value; it’s coupled with a focus on the emotional repercussions of violence, a key element resonating with audiences.
This trend towards darker themes isn’t new, but its mainstream acceptance is. Historically, shonen anime often prioritized optimism and straightforward heroism. Now, audiences are increasingly drawn to stories that grapple with moral ambiguity, trauma, and the psychological toll of power – themes previously relegated to more niche genres.
“After God” and the Expanding Dark Shonen Universe
For fans seeking similar narratives, Sumi Eno’s After God offers a compelling alternative. Like Chainsaw Man, it’s a shonen horror centered around humanity’s struggle against powerful, destructive beings – in this case, gods who have ravaged Japan. The manga shares Chainsaw Man’s detailed and unsettling art style, depicting the devastation caused by these gods with a similar level of visceral detail.
A key parallel lies in the protagonists. Denji, in Chainsaw Man, gains power through a parasitic relationship with Pochita, fundamentally altering his life. Similarly, Waka Kamikura in After God possesses the eyes of a god, granting her destructive abilities but likewise stripping her of control. Both characters grapple with the consequences of their powers and the loss of agency, adding layers of complexity to their journeys.
The Female Gaze in Dark Shonen
After God also stands out for its female protagonist and exploration of themes through a female perspective. This represents a notable departure from the traditionally male-dominated shonen genre. The manga delves into the dark side of femininity, offering a more nuanced and complex portrayal of female characters than often seen in mainstream anime, and manga.
Themes of Power, Fear, and the Divine
Both Chainsaw Man and After God explore the precarious relationship between humanity and beings of immense power. Whether it’s devil hunters protecting Japan from devils or researchers attempting to combat the gods, both series present worlds where the lines between victim and monster are blurred. The use of government agencies weaponizing devils, or experimentation on gods, highlights the ethical complexities inherent in wielding such power.
This exploration of power dynamics taps into a broader cultural conversation about control, responsibility, and the potential for corruption. The unsettling tone and graphic imagery serve not merely as spectacle, but as a means of confronting uncomfortable truths about human nature and the consequences of unchecked ambition.
Future Trends: What’s Next for Dark Shonen?
The success of Chainsaw Man and the rising popularity of series like After God suggest several key trends will shape the future of the shonen genre:
- Increased Psychological Depth: Expect more stories that delve into the mental and emotional toll of violence and power, moving beyond simple action sequences.
- Moral Ambiguity: The clear-cut lines between quality and evil will continue to blur, forcing audiences to confront tricky ethical questions.
- Stronger Female Leads: The demand for diverse representation will drive the creation of more complex and compelling female protagonists.
- Surreal and Visceral Art Styles: Artists will continue to push boundaries with increasingly detailed and unsettling visuals, enhancing the emotional impact of the narratives.
- Exploration of Trauma: Stories will increasingly address the long-term effects of trauma, both on individuals and on society as a whole.
Did you know?
Chainsaw Man — The Movie: Reze Arc grossed over $174.2 million worldwide as of December 2025, making it one of the highest-grossing Japanese films of all time.
FAQ
Q: What is “dark shonen”?
A: Dark shonen is a subgenre of shonen manga and anime that features more mature themes, graphic violence, and psychological complexity than traditional shonen series.
Q: Where can I read “After God”?
A: After God is available in English through Viz Media.
Q: Is “Chainsaw Man” finished?
A: The Chainsaw Man manga series is still ongoing.
Q: What makes “Chainsaw Man” different from other shonen anime?
A: Chainsaw Man stands out due to its unique blend of dark humor, graphic violence, emotional depth, and morally ambiguous characters.
If you’re a fan of intense action, psychological horror, and thought-provoking narratives, the dark shonen genre offers a wealth of compelling stories. Keep an eye on titles like After God and anticipate a continued evolution of the shonen landscape as creators push boundaries and explore new thematic territory.
Explore more: Check out our other articles on anime reviews and manga recommendations.
