Fans are met with a surprising and bittersweet ending as time moves forward eight years in the world of My Hero Academia. Once destined to be the world’s greatest hero, Deku has left behind his life of heroics. Instead, he has taken up the role of a teacher at U.A. High School. This unexpected conclusion raised genuine dissatisfaction among fans as Deku’s heroic journey leads to a seemingly normal life in the end.
However, what seems to be a nightmare for My Hero Academia fans, is considered to be a genuinely happy ending for Chainsaw Man fans. As Denji’s life is marked by brutal combat, constant danger, and an unending struggle for survival, My Hero Academia‘s seemingly ‘boring’ ending resonates with a particular wish among Chainsaw Man fans; to see Denji find peace in a life free from conflict.
The Parallel between My Hero Academia and Chainsaw Man
The conclusion of My Hero Academia reveals a dramatic change in Deku’s trajectory, which comes as a surprise. After eight years, Deku is no more living his life as a hero fighting in the front lines. Rather, he is now a teacher at U.A. High School, the same place where his adventure started.
This shift in Deku’s life echoes the intense emotions felt by the viewers of Chainsaw Man, a series that portrays the chaotic life of Denji, a young man who turns into a Devil Hunter for mere survival.
Denji’s life is defined by ruthless conflict, ongoing threats, and a never-ending battle for survival. Fans of Chainsaw Man have long expressed a wish for Denji to leave his vicious lifestyle behind and find peace in a more typical, quiet existence in the middle of all of this chaos.
Fans who want to see Denji break free from the never-ending cycle of turmoil and suffering find immense appeal in the idea of his tranquil existence.
The similarities between Denji and Deku are found in their experiences and the ways that their respective roles have changed them. In their journeys, both protagonists have had to overcome great obstacles and make painful personal sacrifices.
While Deku’s transition to becoming a teacher allows him to find peace and purpose in guiding others, a similar path for Denji would mean an end to his constant struggles and a chance to experience a mundane normal life.
Looking Ahead to the Bigger Picture
While there’s no doubt that, both My Hero Academia and Chainsaw Man have showcased the relentless journey of seemingly ordinary teenagers to achieve their dreams. However, some drastic differences in their personal stories are also noticeable. Deku has lived a relatively normal life compared to Denji before his pursuit to become a hero, while Denji never had a chance to actually comprehend what a normal life looks like.
Their goals are also quite different from each other. Deku has always wanted to be a superhero, which is far from living a typical peaceful life. On the other hand, Denji had to become a Devil Hunter due to his circumstances, that was never his envisioned ideal life. Thus, fans have some valid points to be dissatisfied with the current ending of My Hero Academia.
However, despite their different backstories and motives, Deku’s transition into being a teacher mirrors the desires of Chainsaw Man fans for Denji to find peace and escape the cycle of violence that defines his life. Both characters’ journeys highlight the importance of finding fulfillment beyond the battlefield, whether through teaching, guiding others, or simply enjoying a peaceful life.
You can watch My Hero Academia and Chainsaw Man on Crunchyroll.
