The global blockbuster Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle has secured a crucial step toward Academy Award recognition. The film, which adapts the start of the final battle against Muzan, is officially Demon Slayer Infinity Castle Oscar eligible for consideration in the Best Animated Feature Film category for the 98th Academy Awards in 2026.
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences released the list of 35 films that have met the necessary qualifying criteria. Animated by ufotable, Infinity Castle stands out among a strong field, which includes rival anime films and major studio releases like Disney’s Zootopia 2. The film’s immense critical praise for its stunning action and emotional depth makes it a major contender.
The eligibility confirms that distributors, led by Sony/Crunchyroll, are actively campaigning for the film, a critical push often required for non-Ghibli anime to gain traction with Hollywood voters. The Demon Slayer Infinity Castle Oscar bid comes after the film achieved a box office surge, surpassing $730 million globally this year.
While being eligible is the first step, the film still faces the tough challenge of securing one of the final five nomination slots. If successful, the Demon Slayer Infinity Castle Oscar nomination would solidify anime’s dominant global influence and further establish it as a perennial force in the top-tier feature film awards.
