Chainsaw Man never ceases to shock fans with every new chapter, but this week's release introduces the most terrifying of the Devils so far -- the Falling Devil. While there isn't much in terms of plot development, and a surprising lack of action, Chainsaw Man Chapter 123 more than makes up for these weaknesses in tone and the sheer terror of introducing this new villain.
Right out of the gate, the reader is thrown into the turmoil of engaging with the Falling Devil, a devious monster who makes anything around her lose gravity and fall to their deaths. The first panel is frightening on its own -- a multi-armed devil, an amalgamation of grotesque and disfigured body parts rips off the head of one of her victims. After doing so, the disembodied head is held up by the arms of the devil and uses it to speak. If Tatsuki Fujimoto was going for creep factor, he's once again succeeded.
The chapter is briskly paced, with only eighteen pages. Luckily, the English release of Chainsaw Man has an incredible translation thanks to Amanda Haley. The chapter is incredibly easy to read given its grotesque body horror.
One of the most common complaints about manga apps is that the images and lettering sometimes come out funny looking, making them hard to read. The lettering for the English version, from Sabrina Heep, does and excellent job at making everything from the Falling Devil's menacing speaking style to the many eerie sound effects elevate the chapter.
Technical aspects aside, the plot of this chapter not only sends chills down readers' spines but utilizes the theme of helplessness -- perfect for the lack of control felt by falling -- and juxtaposes that with a flashback that teases a little more about Asa's backstory. Asa was raised in an orphanage for children whose parents were killed by Devils.
Without spoiling anything, the subsequent themes of feeling helpless and powerless are touched upon with great effect and are absolutely heartbreaking. Chainsaw Man Chapter 123 is sure to force readers into an existentially devastating mindset, and does so in less than twenty pages. It would be wise to not read this chapter if you are afraid of heights.
Chainsaw Man is available in English through Viz Media's Shonen Jump imprint.