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As Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle opened to massive box office and critical fan reaction, fans wondered whether this could break into the Oscars. But the reality is far simpler—and far less dramatic. The Academy was never going to nominate a movie that functions as a direct, late‑series continuation of an ongoing storyline.

In this episode of iCritic LIVE, Kevin unpacks why Infinity Castle, despite its scale, spectacle, and emotional weight, is fundamentally built for viewers already deep into the Demon Slayer narrative. For Oscar voters who expect a film to stand on its own, this kind of continuity‑heavy storytelling is a non‑starter.

🔍 In this episode:

• Why Infinity Castle demands extensive prior knowledge of the series
• How late‑arc storytelling clashes with the Academy’s expectations for standalone films
• Why even groundbreaking animation can’t overcome narrative inaccessibility
• The difference between audience hype and awards‑body practicality
• What an anime film would need to look like to be a true Oscar contender

If you’re curious about how awards voters think—and why certain formats are at a structural disadvantage—this episode breaks down the real, grounded reasons Infinity Castle was never in the Oscar conversation.

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We’re kicking off the new year with a special live episode! 🎉 Join us as we look back on last year’s highlights, talk about what’s next for the podcast, and unveil some exciting updates—yes, including our brand-new website! We’ll chat about upcoming content, community plans, and how you can get involved in shaping what’s ahead.

It’s a casual, interactive hangout to celebrate a fresh start and share our vision for the year ahead. Grab your favorite drink, join the live chat, and let’s ring in the new year together with good vibes, honest conversations, and a few surprises.

Tune in live, get involved, and let’s make this year our best one yet!

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►Want a question answered on iCritic Live? Send a question here and we'll answer it (if it's a reasonable question): https://streamelements.com/kevintrod/tip

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►PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/KevinTRod

Website: http://www.icritic.net
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Letterboxd: https://letterboxd.com/KevinTRod/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/kevintrod/pins/
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My Amazon Wish List: https://www.amazon.com/registry/wishlist/22VIH93Q0H9EP/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_gm__wl

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If you would like to send me snail mail, please send all (legal) packages to:

iCritic
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All view are protected by the First Amendment and all images and video clips used are protected under Fair Use.

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In this explosive episode of iCritic LIVE, we tackle the shocking news: Netflix is set to buy Warner Bros. Discovery. What does this mean for Hollywood, streaming dominance, and the future of movie theaters? Are theaters doomed—or is there still hope for the big screen experience? Join us as we break down the deal, the industry shake-up, and what it means for audiences everywhere.

Support the show

►Want a question answered on iCritic Live? Send a question here and we'll answer it (if it's a reasonable question): https://streamelements.com/kevintrod/tip

►Get free money just from buying gas! Download GetUpside to start making an average of $50 a day: https://upside.app.link/5TMVT

►Want to invest in stocks commission-free? Use Robinhood! Sign up through this link to get a free stock: https://share.robinhood.com/kevin1823

►PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/KevinTRod

Website: http://www.icritic.net
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Letterboxd: https://letterboxd.com/KevinTRod/
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Twitter: https://twitter.com/KevinTRod

My Amazon Wish List: https://www.amazon.com/registry/wishlist/22VIH93Q0H9EP/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_gm__wl

My Criterion Wish List: https://www.criterion.com/wishlist/392515

If you would like to send me snail mail, please send all (legal) packages to:

iCritic
PO Box 2130
Huntington Beach, CA 92647

All view are protected by the First Amendment and all images and video clips used are protected under Fair Use.