Who Is The Ultimate Antagonist In Chainsaw Man?
“Chainsaw Man,” created by Tatsuki Fujimoto, has gained immense popularity in the anime and manga community. The series is known for its action-packed devil-hunting narrative and diverse cast of characters. Among the intriguing characters in the series, the enigmatic antagonist, Makima, stands out as a character that has captured the hearts of fans.
The Allure of Makima
Makima’s allure is evident from the moment she graces the pages of “Chainsaw Man.” With her conventionally attractive appearance, striking red hair tied in a braid, and mesmerizing eyes, Makima exudes an otherworldly beauty that draws the reader’s attention. She presents herself with an air of calm and collected confidence, which hints at the depth of her character. However, her true nature and intentions remain shrouded in mystery, making her a compelling and enigmatic figure in the story.
The first impression of Makima is that of a benevolent ally. She takes Denji, the main protagonist, under her wing, providing him with a sense of happiness and security that he had long been deprived of. Makima’s initial actions and words suggest a motherly figure, offering Denji the companionship he desperately craves. She forms a pseudo-family with Denji, creating a sense of unity and strength among her followers, all while assuming a motherly or ideal girlfriend role for Denji. Her kindness and care for Denji are evident in various scenes, from inviting him on dates to watch movies to letting him stay in her home when he falls asleep on a park bench. Moreover, Makima is shown as a dog lover, owning several dogs in her apartment, emphasizing her nurturing nature.
Makima’s Omniscience
Makima’s initial persona paints her as a savior of humanity, fighting against the devil entities plaguing the world. She portrays herself as a protector of human beings, going to great lengths to ensure their safety and well-being. Her apparent ruthlessness is directed towards individuals or entities that pose a threat to humanity, and she does not hesitate to take extreme measures to eliminate these threats.
Despite her seemingly benevolent façade, Makima’s character gradually reveals darker layers. Her cold and ruthless side surfaces as she manipulates Denji and exerts control over him. She threatens Denji with the possibility of euthanizing him or treating him as a devil if he disobeys her orders, establishing a master-pet dynamic between them. Her actions reflect her willingness to use others as pawns to achieve her goals, showcasing her manipulative and sociopathic tendencies.
Makima’s Identity as One of the Four Horsemen
Makima’s true nature is further unveiled as the series progresses. It is revealed that she is the Control Devil, a powerful and ancient devil that has been feared by both humans and other devils for centuries. Her ultimate goal is to use the power of Chainsaw Man, a being sealed within Denji, to eradicate all devils that have plagued humanity for ages. She aspires to create a better world, fulfilling the wishes of her contractor, the Japanese Prime Minister.
Her obsession with Chainsaw Man is a central theme in the series. Makima proclaims herself to be Chainsaw Man’s biggest fan and is determined to either be devoured by him or utilize his powers to rid the world of devils. She believes that Chainsaw Man’s abilities can erase the memories of tragedies and fears associated with devils, potentially bringing peace and prosperity to humanity.
Makima’s True Nature
Despite her calm and collected demeanor, Makima is not afraid to resort to ruthless tactics to achieve her goals. She conspires with others in the Bureau and the Japanese Government to obtain fragments of the Gun Devil, with the aim of making Japan a superpower. She is even willing to instigate conflicts with other nations to obtain these fragments, demonstrating her jingoistic and power-hungry nature.
Makima’s abilities as the Control Devil are formidable. She possesses an extraordinary level of intellect, the power to manipulate and control other living beings, and the ability to inflict curses. Her control over animals and her capacity to wound powerful beings like the Primordial Devils highlight her frightening capabilities. Additionally, Makima has a deep knowledge of past tragedies and fears that have been forgotten by humanity due to Chainsaw Man’s powers, showcasing her omniscience.
As the story unfolds, Makima’s calm and collected demeanor plays a crucial role in her schemes. She always has backup plans in place, and she remains unfazed even when facing defeat. Her apathy towards winning or losing in a battle is reflected in her willingness to accept losses as victories, particularly when it comes to her obsession with Chainsaw Man.
However, Makima’s calm demeanor belies her sadistic tendencies. She derives pleasure from her battles, especially during her confrontation with Chainsaw Man. Her sadomasochistic nature becomes evident as she faces her own defeat and still revels in the experience. This complex mix of traits makes her a multifaceted and unforgettable antagonist.
While Makima’s character is primarily depicted as ruthless and calculating, there is an underlying sense of tragedy in her story. She longs to create a utopian world where she can be equal to others and form genuine familial relationships. Her upbringing as a cold and ruthless individual, raised to lead the Public Safety Division in the fight against devils, left her emotionally stunted. Her reincarnation as Nayuta, a more innocent and vulnerable version of herself, reveals her desire for a more ordinary and fulfilling life.
In conclusion, Makima is a character of great complexity in “Chainsaw Man.” Her enigmatic allure, motherly appeal, and ruthlessness combine to create a captivating and formidable antagonist. Her obsession with Chainsaw Man, her omniscient knowledge, and her intricate plans make her a powerful and memorable character. Makima’s character is a masterful blend of manipulation, power, and tragedy, making her one of the standout antagonists in the world of manga and anime. As “Chainsaw Man” continues to captivate audiences, Makima’s presence and influence on the story remain central to its intrigue and appeal.