Movie
Description
Duke Duralumin acts as a primary antagonist across multiple narrative iterations. A nobleman within the Kingdom of Silverland and a relative of the ruling monarch, his position places him next in line for the throne should the royal heir be deemed ineligible. Fueled by ambition, he plots to install his son, Plastic, as king, intending to rule indirectly through him. This drive stems from his characterization as corrupt and oppressive, holding the belief that his rule would inflict suffering on the kingdom's populace.

His schemes consistently focus on proving the heir, Prince Sapphire, is biologically female, as Silverland's laws permit only males to inherit the throne. He orchestrates deceptive tactics to achieve this, frequently relying on his subordinate, Baron Nylon, to execute plots involving magic, trickery, and political manipulation. These include attempts to force confessions, deploying enchanted objects like a pen that compels truth-writing, and consulting supernatural entities such as ghosts or magic mirrors. Despite his cunning, his plans are repeatedly thwarted by Sapphire and her allies.

Duralumin's relationship with his son, Plastic, adds complexity. While primarily viewing Plastic as a tool for seizing power, moments of genuine paternal concern pierce his otherwise cruel nature, revealing worry for his son's future and well-being. Plastic's initial portrayal as childish and unintelligent makes him a seemingly perfect puppet, though later developments show Plastic maturing and defying his father's control.

His role escalates when he allies with larger antagonistic forces. In later storylines, particularly the anime adaptation, he collaborates with more powerful villains. These include Satan (or Mephisto), a demonic figure coveting Sapphire's unique two-hearted soul, and Mr. X, ruler of the fascistic X-Union aiming to conquer Silverland and neighboring kingdoms. Duralumin follows their orders to advance his own ambitions.

His fate varies significantly by medium. In the original manga serialization, his plots are ultimately defeated, and Sapphire outmaneuvers him. The 1960s manga remake concludes with him committing suicide as an act of atonement after Baron Nylon mortally wounds both Sapphire and Plastic. In the 1967 anime series, his story culminates during a coup staged with Mr. X. Just as Duralumin prepares to install Plastic as king and declare himself regent, Baron Nylon—driven to madness by prolonged abuse—assassinates him. Nylon then briefly seizes power before becoming a puppet for Mr. X, who ultimately discards him.