How The Reze Arc Is Going to Change Denji Completely

Summary

Denji’s character evolves as he meets Reze, showing new romantic depth.
Reze Arc will introduce key characters, exploring Denji’s psychology.
Denji’s forgiveness and empathy highlight his heroism in the Reze Arc.

The “Chainsaw Man” series distinguishes itself in numerous aspects. Notably, it’s set in a world filled with supernatural elements, but what truly sets it apart is the unique character dynamics. A prime example of this can be seen in Denji, who deviates from typical main characters as he lacks a strong desire to be a hero and is primarily driven by his feelings for Makima. However, an encounter with Reze will significantly alter Denji’s character trajectory.

The much-loved “Chainsaw Man” series is moving forward with a follow-up titled “Chainsaw Man – The Movie: Reze Arc“. Following the success of the initial season, which concluded with the introduction of Reze, the final scene provided a sneak peek at the main character for the upcoming sequel. In the “Reze Arc”, we can expect to meet some significant new characters and gain greater insights into Denji’s mental state.

The following content contains spoilers from the Chainsaw Man manga.

What Will Happen in the Reze Arc?

Denji’s First Date

During the initial season, making Makima favorably impressed was a significant goal for Denji. He signed up with the Public Safety Devil Hunters and embarked on risky missions, all in an attempt to win her affection. The Reze Arc will recognize his endeavors as he is asked out by Makima for a date. They decide to spend their time together at a “Theater-Hopping Movie Marathon”, which left Denji initially disappointed because he had imagined something different when he thought of a “date”.

In the theater, it’s clear that everyone is displaying various emotions. However, Denji and Makima appear unaffected. With every film they watch, Denji finds himself more smitten by Makima’s charm. As time went on, even a movie that usually makes him cry touched Makima as well. After the screening ended, Denji inquired, “Makima… do you believe I possess a heart?” To his delight, she affirmed it, filling Denji with immense happiness.

Meeting Reze

In a phone booth shielding them from the heavy rainfall, Denji encounters Reze for the first time. Reze couldn’t suppress her giggles as Denji’s face reminded her of her deceased dog. To this amusing remark, Denji retaliated by projectile-vomiting a previously consumed flower. Touched by the gift, she extended an invitation to Denji for a coffee at the cafe where she occasionally worked.

Upon arriving at work, she stumbled upon Denji casually seated at the café. Their interactions sparked instantly, leading Denji to ponder whether Reze might harbor feelings for him. Over the next seven days, he kept returning to the café, hinting that he too was growing fond of Reze.

The Bomb Devil

When Reze learned that Denji had never attended school, she suggested they check out a school at night. As they did so, they were spotted by the Typhoon Devil who attempted to kill them but halted when it recognized Reze’s real identity. Later on, during their evening out at a local fair, Reze invited Denji to leave his job and escape with her instead.

…I’m slowly figuring out how to handle buddies with crappy personalities too.

And I even finally hit it off with this older coworker I couldn’t stand.

I even found, like, a career goal. I’m starting to enjoy it more and more…

Can I not keep working… And still see you?

– Denji, Chapter 44

However, Denji politely refused, clarifying that he cherishes his job and desires to carry on meeting her without giving up his employment. Instantly, Reze presses a kiss onto him, yet in the heat of the moment, she accidentally bites off part of his tongue. Then, she confessed her true identity as the Bomb Devi.

A Heartbreaking Ending

Following their defeat at Denji’s hands, Reze ended up resting on the beach beside him. She challenged his choice to resurrect her, to which Denji responded by expressing understanding with her. This prompted Reze to erupt in laughter and confess that all her actions until then were feigned, and she had never genuinely cared for Denji.

Regardless of his offer, Denji proposed a escape plan, but Reze declined. She made it clear she’d be at the cafe later in the day. However, Reze failed to appear, leaving Denji with a sense of rejection. Unbeknownst to him, Reze had decided to visit him and was en route, but Makima intercepted her, causing what seemed like her death.

Reze Arc’s Impact on Denji

A Romantic Dilemma

Previously, it was just Makima who had stirred romantic feelings within me. I’d harbored inappropriate thoughts about other women, but never acted on them. In Season 1, Episode 8, despite Himeko tempting me, a memory of Makima flashed across my mind, holding me back from taking things too far. However, when I encountered Reze, my interest in her began to grow significantly.

At first, he struggles with the idea of both women influencing his thoughts, yet his affection for Reze intensifies so much that not only does he pardon her deceit but he is ready to flee with her. This marks the moment when he starts to break free from Makima’s control, a decision that will have consequences throughout the series.

An Emphasis on Denji’s Heroic Traits

At first glance, Denji might appear as a simple character driven by ordinary desires. However, hidden beneath his playful antics is a compassionate soul. The character of Reze Arc serves to emphasize Denji’s heroic qualities, such as forgiveness, empathy, and optimism. Even after her deception, Denji found it difficult to apprehend Reze because he felt it would diminish him. He prefers a life that involves endless death over feeling insignificant.

Even if I get beaten black and blue, go through hell and die again and again…

As long as I get to eat good, grub the next day, I can wipe the ledger clean.

But if I arrested you right here and turned you over to Public Safety…

I just feel like… there’d be a fish bone stuck in my throat.

– Denji, Chapter 51

When Denji rejects Reze’s proposition to escape together, it becomes apparent that he values his current allies and companions. Despite this, he pardons her deceit and suggests fleeing as a means to boost her survival odds. His motivation stems from his affection for her, coupled with the ability to empathize with her due to their shared traits.

Worldwide Premiere of “Chainsaw Man: Reze Arc” Movie is set for September 24, 2025. This film will carry forward the action-filled narrative of the series while delving deeper into Denji’s psychological aspects. At this point, it remains to be seen if the movie will introduce any significant departures from the original manga.

Chainsaw Man is available to watch on Crunchyroll and Netflix.

2025-04-19 22:05