Warning: Contains spoilers for Chainsaw Man chapter #194Chainsaw Manis one of the biggest anime and manga franchises in the world, but it isn’t free from criticism. In fact, Denjihas become somewhat of a polarizing character over the course of Part Two’s serialization. It’s been over six years since the titular Chainsaw Man was introduced to the world, and nearly three since he was thrust into the spotlight in MAPPA’s 2022 anime adaptation. Though fans should be well aware of the sort of protagonist Denji is, he continues to attract criticism from all corners of the manga reading community with each new chapter released.
Rude, selfish, and deeply scarred,Denji is not meant to fill the typical shōnen hero role. There is no linear growth, no grand destination at which he will arrive, and no quick fix for his tragic past. Nevertheless,Chainsaw Man’s protagonist is tossed into the fire each time he puts his selfish, often sexual desires first. The latest chapter #194, “Fun School Festival”, has quieted his critics, however. When Denji was faced with an opportunity to fulfill his degenerate desires, his true colors were revealed,and he made a kind gesture toward the devil who wants him dead.
Denji Silences Critics With a Simple, Caring Gesture
Chainsaw Man Has His Flaws, But He’s Kind at Heart
The most common criticism aimed at Denji is thathe’s a horny, empty-minded, and shallow person, who cannot resist his own desires no matter how harmful they may be to him. While at times this can be an accurate description of his character, he’s also incredibly broken,and tends to cling to whatever affection comes his way. However, claims that Denji is a degenerate are largely inaccurate, and chapter #194 showcases that fact.
When waking up next to Yoru, Denji looks her way and notices her chest instantly. Unlike the War Devil, though, he shows some tact,and instead of making uninvited advances, he simply covers her with a blanketand proceeds to make himself something to eat. Recent chapters have prompted readers to compare the series' main character toEvangelion’s Shinji during the notorious hospital scene inThe End of Evangelion. In a moment that seemingly wants the audience to think that way, however, he instead makes a kind gesture.
Denji Is Aware of the Negative Consequences, But Doesn’t Really Care
Chainsaw Man’s chapter #192, “How Devils Play”, gave insight into Denji’s current state of mind. Yoru expresses that she still plans to turn him into a weapon, to which Denji replies, “Doesn’t matter. ‘Cuz for the first time in a while, I’m kinda having fun right now.” It was a terribly sad moment, and he follows up on the sentiment in chapter #194.Speaking to Pochita, who is tucked away in his chest, Denji calls Yoru “the most dangerous chick yet”,and expresses that he knows he will “probably get screwed again”.
Denji is aware of the consequences that may come by acting on his own desires,but he doesn’t really care at the moment. After losing not one, two, but three separate families, being hunted and killed on several occasions, and having his own identity as Chainsaw Man stolen from him, he doesn’t exactly have the ability to care about what happens to him. As he claimed earlier in Part Two,“grub and girls”, another way of saying ‘instant gratification’, is all that can keep him going after losing everything on multiple occasions.
Despite that, however, in a critical moment, Denji shows kindness to someone else. He may not be a perfect protagonist, but he is realistic, and many of the criticisms thrown his wayare largely based on misunderstandings of who exactly he is as a character. Once again,Chainsaw Manhas proven there’s a little more happening than what’s being displayed on its pages, and another chapter has come and gone in which the series silences Denji’s critics.
I’ve Changed My Mind, Chainsaw Man Part 2 Is Actually Pretty Good
At long last, Chainsaw Man Part Two is finally fixing a major problem that has been plaguing the manga for months. Hopefully, this trend will last.
Part Two as a whole is a different subject, and there’s plenty for fans to be critical of in the section with regard to pacing and narrative focus. UntilChainsaw Manreaches its conclusion, however, it may be wise for fans to hold off on making judgments, as author Tatsuki Fujimoto is capable of turning a story on its head at any time.Whatever lies ahead for Asa, Denji, and Yoru, it can be certain thatthe series’ protagonist will be broken but kind.
Chainsaw Man
Chainsaw Manis a dark fantasy manga created by Tatsuki Fujimoto. The series follows Denji, a young man who merges with his devil-dog Pochita to become Chainsaw Man. He joins the Public Safety Devil Hunters to fight devils threatening Japan. The series explores themes of violence, power, and survival. Since its debut in 2018,Chainsaw Manhas gained immense popularity, leading to a critically acclaimed anime adaptation.
