Demon Slayer season 3 episode 8 review: An artistic masterpiece that reveals Muichiro's past, but leaves the main plot a mystery

Muichiro and Yuichiro as seen in Demon Slayer season 3 episode 8 (Image via Ufotable)
Muichiro and Yuichiro as seen in Demon Slayer season 3 episode 8 (Image via Ufotable)

Demon Slayer season 3 episode 8, titled Mu in Muichiro, was expected to maintain the series' momentum, especially after the splendid execution of its predecessors. While this episode showcased a distinct flavor of artistry and character-focused storyboarding, it made a noticeable detour from the primary storyline.

Instead of focusing on the current plot progression, the episode delves deep into the past, focusing on Mist Hashira Muichiro Tokito.

In Demon Slayer season 3 episode 7, the stakes heighten as Tanjiro continues his fierce battle against the merged entity of Sekido and his counterparts, leading to a treacherous showdown involving a massive dragon-faced tree. Nezuko, using her energy, manages to protect her brother at a high cost.

Meanwhile, Muichiro finds himself in a perilous predicament inside Gyokko's Water Prison Pot. However, thanks to Kotetsu's selfless aid, Muichiro manages to break free. Amidst the chaos, Hotaru Haganezuka is engrossed in restoring Tanjiro's sword, unfazed by Gyokko's continuous onslaught. The episode culminates in an emotional revelation for Muichiro, noting a resemblance between Tanjiro's eyes and those of his father.


Demon Slayer season 3 episode 8: The echoes of Muichiro’s past resound in the present

Demon Slayer Season 3 episode 8 offers an intimate glimpse into Muichiro's past, painting a detailed picture of the sorrow and hardships that marked his early life. Starting from their shared childhood happiness, the narrative gradually unveils the tragic incident when a demon brutally attacked the Tokito brothers. The harsh circumstances that Muichiro faced following his twin brother's loss and his subsequent struggle for survival make up the core of this episode.

In the aftermath of the tragedy, Muichiro's life takes a sharp turn as he is forced to adapt and grow beyond his years. His journey from a carefree child to a hardened Demon Slayer is narrated with heartfelt emotion, adding depth to his character and painting him as more than just a formidable warrior.


Demon Slayer season 3 episode 8: Muichiro's rise to power

The awakening of Muichiro’s memories and his confrontation with Gyokko form the crux of the episode's action sequences. The exceptional animation quality and the symbolic use of mist-like markings over Muichiro's face elevate these intense scenes. It’s a powerful visual representation of his newfound resolve and strength.

Hotaru Haganezuka's stubborn persistence despite numerous injuries shows a different kind of strength: the fortitude of the human spirit. The showdown between Muichiro and Gyokko, resulting in Muichiro breaking free from Gyokko's water prison, offers nail-biting action.


Demon Slayer season 3 episode 8: Muichiro's battle against Gyokko

Demon Slayer season 3 episode 8 showcases Muichiro, freshly released from Gyokko's Water Prison Pot, locked in combat with the demon. Gyokko, with his grotesque aesthetics and fish-like minions, radiates an ominous aura.

On the other hand, Muichiro, the Mist Pillar, displays a tranquil exterior and an intense resolve, amplified by his sorrowful past. As the two engage in a dramatic confrontation, Muichiro employs his Mist breathing technique, delivering a masterstroke in battle. The beautifully animated sequences highlight both the ferocity of the clash and the grace of Muichiro's movements.


Review of Demon Slayer season 3 episode 8

Demon Slayer season 3 episode 8 deserves accolades for its artistic achievement and profound character study. The episode presents a remarkable blend of emotional depth and artistic brilliance. Despite diverging from the main plot, it succeeds in engrossing the audience through its impactful narration of Muichiro's backstory.

The episode's quality animation, paired with top-notch voice acting and scoring, is a testament to Ufotable's consistent production quality. It offers an aesthetically pleasing viewing experience that both looks and sounds exceptional.

While the in-depth exploration of Muichiro's backstory adds substantial depth to his character, it also significantly shifts the focus away from the main narrative of Demon Slayer season 3. This sudden shift in focus might seem a bit jarring to some viewers, especially those eager to see the main storyline progress.

However, the insights gained from this detour provide a richer understanding of Muichiro's character and motivations. It’s a strategic narrative decision that humanizes him and ties his personal stakes more tightly to the broader struggle against demons.


Final thoughts

Demon Slayer season 3 episode 8 is a compelling episode that focuses on a character-centered narrative rather than pushing forward the primary plotline. It sets an emotional tone while presenting Muichiro’s story with immense sensitivity and artistic grandeur. While this episode may not have offered much in terms of advancing the main storyline, it was a beautiful detour that illuminated a significant character's backstory.

Moving forward, it will be interesting to see how the insights from this episode integrate with the broader narrative. It sets the stage for the audience to understand Muichiro’s actions and decisions in a much deeper sense. Undoubtedly, the anticipation for what the next episode, titled Mist Hasira, Muichiro Tokito, holds in store remains high.

Quick Links

Edited by Upasya Bhowal
Sportskeeda logo
Close menu
WWE
WWE
NBA
NBA
NFL
NFL
MMA
MMA
Tennis
Tennis
NHL
NHL
Golf
Golf
MLB
MLB
Soccer
Soccer
F1
F1
WNBA
WNBA
More
More
bell-icon Manage notifications