Denji, the protagonist of the hit manga and anime series Chainsaw Man, is a character who elicits strong reactions from fans. While many adore his straightforward nature and compelling journey, a segment of the fanbase has expressed dislike or even hatred towards him. This raises a crucial question: Why Did People Hate Denji In The Manga? It’s not a simple case of a poorly written character; instead, the reasons are nuanced and often tied to the very elements that make Chainsaw Man so unique.
Understanding this complex relationship requires delving into Denji’s personality, motivations, and the narrative choices surrounding him. It’s important to note that “hate” is a strong word, and for many, it might be more accurate to describe their feelings as frustration, disappointment, or simply a lack of connection with the character. However, these less positive sentiments are still significant and contribute to the ongoing discourse around Denji within the Chainsaw Man fandom.
One of the primary reasons for this mixed reception stems from Denji’s initial motivations. Unlike typical shonen protagonists driven by grand ambitions like becoming Hokage or Pirate King, Denji’s desires are remarkably grounded and, at first glance, shallow. He starts off wanting a normal life, good food, and to touch breasts. This stark contrast to idealistic heroes can be jarring for some readers.
As the original review of Chainsaw Man Episode 3 points out, the reviewer initially struggled to connect with Power, another character introduced early in the series, based on her seemingly selfish backstory. Similarly, Denji’s seemingly base desires can initially paint him as unlikable to those expecting a more traditionally heroic figure.
“If Power’s sad backstory about losing Meowy to the Bat Devil was supposed to make me care about her character, it failed.” – Original Article Excerpt
This sentiment of initial disconnect can be extended to Denji. His focus on simple pleasures can be misinterpreted as a lack of depth or ambition. For readers accustomed to protagonists with noble goals, Denji’s comparatively self-serving desires might seem off-putting.
Furthermore, Denji’s personality can be abrasive to some. He is often crude, impulsive, and lacks social graces. He speaks his mind without filter and prioritizes immediate gratification. This contrasts sharply with more composed and thoughtful protagonists. While some fans appreciate his refreshing honesty and lack of pretense, others find him annoying or immature.
The original review also touches upon the morally ambiguous world of Chainsaw Man. Characters like Makima, who inspires both fear and obedience, contribute to this complex landscape. Denji, operating within this world, often makes morally questionable choices, further complicating his image as a protagonist.
“Given that Power is this boastful and all-powerful fiend who can make any desired object out of blood, I don’t get why Power is so afraid of Makima… It’s like Makima uttering the command to calm down shook Power to her core and forced her to obey the order.” – Original Article Excerpt
Denji’s interactions with figures like Makima, and his willingness to follow orders even when they seem dubious, can be seen as a lack of agency or moral compass by some readers. This can contribute to a sense of dislike, particularly for those who prefer protagonists who are more independent and morally upright.
However, it’s crucial to understand that these perceived flaws are intentional and contribute to Denji’s compelling character arc. Chainsaw Man is not a traditional shonen manga; it deconstructs many tropes of the genre. Denji is not meant to be a flawless hero. His journey is about growth, learning, and finding meaning beyond his initial shallow desires.
As the story progresses, Denji undergoes significant character development. He experiences loss, betrayal, and grapples with complex moral dilemmas. His relationships with characters like Power and Aki, despite their initial dysfunction, force him to confront his own selfishness and grow as a person. The original review mentions the dynamic between Denji and Aki, hinting at the initial friction and potential for development.
“At this point in time, I kind of dislike both Power and Hayakawa Aki. I mean the bar is literally set so low for the people entering Denji’s life that I can’t help but hope that one day they’ll ‘get better’ as the story progresses.” – Original Article Excerpt
This initial dislike towards characters like Power and Aki, as expressed in the review, mirrors the potential initial dislike some readers might feel towards Denji. However, just as the reviewer hopes for character development, Chainsaw Man delivers precisely that. Denji’s journey is one of gradual maturation, even if he retains his core, somewhat crude personality.
Ultimately, the reasons why some people “hate” Denji are multifaceted and often stem from a clash of expectations. Those seeking a traditional shonen hero might be put off by his initial motivations and personality. However, for many, Denji’s flaws are precisely what make him relatable and compelling. His journey is a raw and honest portrayal of a young man struggling to find his place in a brutal world, and it’s this very imperfection that resonates with a significant portion of the Chainsaw Man fanbase, even while it alienates others. The controversy surrounding Denji is, therefore, not a weakness of the character, but rather a testament to the series’ willingness to subvert expectations and explore complex themes through a decidedly unconventional protagonist.
