In the Chainsaw Man manga, fans have been introduced to multiple versions of the iconic protagonist—namely Red, Black, and even a fake Chainsaw Man.
With these different forms appearing in the series, especially part 2 of the manga, distinguishing between them and understanding their unique attributes can be a challenge.
In this article, I will point out the differences between the Red and Black Chainsaws, explore their abilities, and their significance in the story.
Index
The red and black chainsaw man explained:
We saw the Red Chainsaw Man as early as the first chapter of the manga. However, the Black Chainsaw Man, or Chainsaw Demon, first appeared in chapter 83 of the manga, heeding Makima's cry for help.
The main difference between the Red and Black Chainsaw Men lies in their origins and appearances. As Fami revealed in chapter 135, they can be classified as two different entities.
Explaining the difference, she mentions that the “red” Chainsaw Man is Denji's familiar hybrid form and the object of Asa's affection.
In contrast, the “Black” Chainsaw Man represents Pochita's previous form, the Chainsaw Demon, who ate the Nuclear Weapon Demon and is the target of Yoru's revenge.
But here's the thing. Fami isn't exactly a reliable narrator. While the red and black figures are different, they're essentially the same person.
The black chainsaw man only appears when Pochita takes control of Denji's body. But more on that later.
The visual differences between the two are quite obvious and noticeable:
Denji's Red Chainsaw Man form is the form fans recognize for his red chainsaw head. Aside from the chainsaws that sprout from his head, arms, and sometimes legs, this form retains Denji's human features.
In contrast, the Black Chainsaw Man is more evil and devious. He has a humanoid body with four chainsaw arms below the elbows and another chainsaw protruding from the front of his head.
However, it is significantly larger than a normal human and has dark armored plates or scales covering its entire body. Notably, its intestines are wrapped around its neck like a scarf.
Another interesting detail is the appearance of Black Chainsaw Man which thematically marks the end or climax of a saga. It represents Denji's catharsis after experiencing unspeakable events for a long time.
Difference in capabilities:
The most significant difference between the Red and Black Chainsaws lies in their respective powers.
Red Chainsaw Man, portrayed by Denji, possesses the normal strength of a hybrid.
This includes superhuman strength, regenerative abilities, and iconic chainsaws that can be summoned from various parts of his body.
Denji's form is very powerful and has allowed him to face many different demons and enemies throughout the series. However, his abilities pale in comparison to Black Chainsaw Man.
The Black Chainsaw possesses a unique and terrifying ability that sets it apart from Denji's form. This version can erase the names of demons it consumes.
This power goes deeper than simple physical destruction—it erases the existence of these demons from the collective memory of humanity.
It may indicate a connection to a more primal and terrifying aspect of the Chainsaw Demon's power. Notably, Denji, as the Red Chainsaw Man, does not possess this ability, which is the main difference between his form and Pochita's original destructive nature.
On top of that, the speed and destructive power of Denji's hybrid form's abilities are no match for Pochita's original demon form.
How did Denji turn into Black Chainsaw Man?
Denji's transformation into Black Chainsaw Man occurs under specific and—let's say—emotionally stressful circumstances.
At first glance, it may seem like Denji transforms into Black Chainsaw Man when he's extremely depressed or bored, but the real explanation is much deeper, stemming from the contract between Denji and Pochita.
In the first chapter of Chainsaw Man, Pochita, before becoming Denji's heart, asked Denji to live a normal life and show him his dreams.
This moment is more than just a warm exchange; it essentially forms a contract between the two. Pochita's request is not a mere wish—it is a binding agreement that defines their relationship.
When Denji reaches the point where he is mentally broken to the point where he can no longer live the normal life he promised Pochita, this contract comes into effect.
Pochita, seeing that Denji was no longer capable of fulfilling his end of the bargain, took over, possibly in an attempt to preserve their deal.
It is at this pivotal moment that Denji's transformation into the Black Chainsaw Man occurs.
Physically, this transformation is marked by a grotesque and sudden change: an intestine-like appendage emerges from Denji's body, wraps around his neck, and knocks him out.
When Denji loses his powers, Pochita takes control and the Black Chainsaw Man emerges. This form is a manifestation of Pochita's original, more terrifying power, taking over when Denji's will to continue is shattered.
This transformation raises intriguing questions: Is this a unique trait in the relationship between Denji and Pochita, or do all hybrids have similar forms of contingency when pushed to their limits?
As of now, the series has yet to provide a definitive answer, leaving yet another aspect of hybrid demons shrouded in mystery.
But here's the interesting thing. Barem mentions that Denji's transformation into Chainsaw Man is “incomplete,” right before we see Nayuta's head on the sushi conveyor belt!
Now, we don't know exactly what he means. It could simply be Barem hinting that he wants to break up Denji more so that Pochita can take over.
It could also hint that Denji may eventually gain control of Black Chainsaw Man or Pochita's demonic form.
What do you think about Black Chainsaw Man? Let me know in the comments.
