Is the animated movie sensation KPop Demon Hunters a unique success or the initiation of a meaningful partnership between Netflix and traditional theater owners?
Industry insiders are inclined toward the former, despite speculation surrounding a special two-day sing-along event for the animated film, projected to gross between $18 million and $20 million across 1,700 North American theaters. However, due to Netflix’s reluctance to disclose box office figures, the exact revenue remains elusive. A request for comment from Netflix on this matter went unanswered on Sunday.
This projection would position New Line and Warner Bros.’ horror film Weapons as the definitive winner from the Aug. 22-24 weekend, with $15.6 million in its third weekend, accumulating a commendable global total of nearly $200 million.
Since its June debut on the streaming platform, KPop Demon Hunters has rapidly become a cultural phenomenon. It is on track to claim the top spot on Netflix’s most popular English-language film list, already dominating the animated category. Its soundtrack has garnered significant attention, maintaining a position in the top 10 of the Billboard 200, with standout tracks like “Golden,” rising to prominent chart positions.
Only AMC Theatres, the largest cinema chain in the United States, has declined to show the sing-along version, adhering to its policy of not screening films currently available at home. Regal Cinemas, Cinemark, Alamo Drafthouse, and numerous other theater chains have eagerly secured the opportunity to participate.
The original, inventive narrative revolves around Huntr/x, a trio of K-pop superstars named Rumi (Arden Cho), Mira (May Hong), and Zooey (Ji-young Yoo). They harness their identities as formidable demon hunters to shield their fans from persistent supernatural dangers, culminating in a showdown against a rival demonic boy band.
Directed by Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans for Sony Pictures Animation, the screenplay was crafted by Danya Jimenez, Hannah McMechan, Kang, and Appelhans. The film eventually found its home at Netflix as part of a broader agreement with Sony Pictures.
Netflix’s movie chief, David Lin, has emphasized that Netflix consistently seeks “powerful new stories, refreshing new voices, and daring new approaches” in its film offerings. He highlights that KPDH exemplifies this strategy, expressing enthusiasm about supporting the creative endeavors of filmmakers Kang and Appelhans along with their collaborators at Sony Animation.
The soundtrack for KPop Demon Hunters features performances by artists such as EJAE, Audrey Nuna, REI AMI, Andrew Choi, Danny Chung, Kevin Woo, samUIL Lee, Neckwav, and Lea Salonga, with original contributions from Jeongyeon, Jihyo, and Chaeyoung.
In the competitive landscape of Hollywood, tech giants like Apple are also making headlines with their cinematic ventures, exemplified by Apple Original Film’s record-setting F1: The Original Movie, which surpassed $600 million globally. Unlike Netflix, Apple is embracing traditional theatrical releases, relying on third-party partners like Warner Bros. for distribution.
More to come.
Based on reporting by Hollywood Reporter. Read the full story at Hollywood Reporter.