Part 1 of Chainsaw Man manga by Tatsuki Fujimoto was an unexpected phenomenon, captivating readers with its gritty violence and dark, unpredictable storyline. The first part became a cult hit, fusing absurdity with intense and emotional moments in ways rarely seen in Shonen Jump. Compared to that, according to many, Part 2 kind of felt short despite carrying a huge amount of expectations.
However, looking back to an interview by Tatsuki Fujimoto, his approach to crafting the second part almost ensured that it would never fully meet these lofty expectations. Despite its merits, it is unlikely for the second part to surpass the first part, and Fujimoto’s own creative process played a role in that outcome.
Chainsaw Man Part 2: A Shift in Tone and Structure
One of the standout aspects of the first part of Chainsaw Man was the subtle clues, and minor details fit together seamlessly into the plot. Fans were stunned by how a trivial detail, such as Makima’s ability to recognize people by scent, became crucial to the plot. However, Tatsuki Fujimoto revealed in an interview via Anime News Network in 2021 that the plot of Chainsaw Man was unplanned from the start.
Some of the elements of the story he thought of early on, while many plot points were added as the story evolved. This would allow for more flexibility in Part 2. However, this revelation changes the way fans perceive the second part. Chainsaw Man Part 2 began its serialization in 2022, with chapter 98, in Jump+, the digital arm of Shonen Jump.
Fujimoto had always been clear that he didn’t want Chainsaw Man to feel like a typical Jump series, which helped the first part stand out. His unique style, which blended grotesque violence, absurd comedy, and genuine emotional moments, was far from the usual fare in Jump. His decision to shift the tone in Part 2 further emphasizes his desire to create something distinct from Part 1. As he remarked,
It might be the case that I want you to see the upcoming Chainsaw Man
Part 2 as a completely different thing from Part 1.
However, this presented a problem. Fans who fell in love with the chaotic, fast-paced nature of the first part were underwhelmed by a slower, more introspective plot in Part 2 that lacked explosive momentum. The second part may have appealed to a different audience, but it disappointed the fans who were drawn to the first part of the series.
Why the Part 2 of Chainsaw Man Would Never be Able to Surpass the Part 1?
Tatsuki Fujimoto’s approach to Chainsaw Man Part 2 unintentionally created a burden of expectations that was almost impossible to meet. The success of Part 1 meant that fans had incredibly high hopes for the continuation. However, by positioning Part 2 as a different entity rather than a direct continuation, Fujimoto set himself up for a far more difficult challenge.
Additionally, one of the key elements that made Part 1 stand out was its proper pacing and unpredictability. While this allowed for creativity and spontaneity in the first part, it also means that Part 2 lacks the same sense of direction. Had Fujimoto treated it as a spin-off or even given it a new title rather than the continuation of the first part, it might have allowed for more creative freedom and set different expectations among fans.
While the craziness is still there in Part 2, it doesn’t feel like the main theme of Chainsaw Man anymore. Moreover, this second part is also a little bit slower, with the characters taking a lot of time to process their actions. While it may have its own audience and merit, it is unlikely to recapture the same lightning-in-a-bottle magic that made Part 1 iconic.
Chainsaw Man manga is currently available to read on Viz Media.
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