Melanie Depriester
Staff Writer
“KPop Demon Hunters” has quickly become a global sensation and may just be Netflix’s new “golden” child, according to Tudum, Netflix’s official news site states is the “most-watched animated film.” Not only this, but it has shattered records, becoming the most viewed Netflix film of all time, with more than 266 million views to date.
Its success at the box office and on music charts has sparked a variety of fan reactions, shining a light on how this film resonates differently across audiences. As the movie was produced in partnership with Sony Pictures Animation, it has gained some attention because of the Spider-Verse movie franchise.
“I watch movies for applying stuff, but also think about movies in a technical sense. So, I really like the animation quality of it. There are a lot of specific shots, specifically in that movie, that felt like it could literally be a poster. And I love that. That’s its company’s thing. That’s what they did with Spider-Verse, both movies, and they did for this movie,” Morgan Forrest said.
Forrest’s appreciation for the craftsmanship behind the animation highlights the film’s artistic achievements rather than focusing on the soundtrack that is most commonly talked about.
While most animated films are normally put into the mold of being a children’s movie, “KPop Demon Hunters” has proven to appeal for everyone, K-pop fan or not.
“I thought the story was intriguing, and people would usually label it as a kid’s movie. It was a really deep story, and I think a lot of the adults and general public really liked it. I liked it too,” Kerri Mangum said.
Beyond the individual opinions, the film’s triumph is underscored by its achievements, such as the sold-out theatrical sing-along events and its impressive Billboard rankings. The soundtrack not only dominated the charts but also achieved the rare feat of having four simultaneous Top 10 songs on the Billboard Hot 100.
However, even with the success of the songs, it does not mean everyone will enjoy hearing them.
“Soda Pop is overrated, there are just so many better songs in that whole movie. I am so sick of hearing it. I need some people to stop using it for edits,” Forrest said.
Now that Netflix has announced the making of a second “KPop Demon Hunters,” there have been some fan theories floating about. Such as Jinu, the male demon lead, had actually survived Gwi-Mas’ dark aura, or that Jinu’s soul went into Rumi’s sword.
“I loved the movie. Everyone is delusional and thinks Jinu survived. I am definitely with the band that thinks that his soul is now in her sword,” Erynn Prado, a fan of J-pop said.
As Forrest, Mangum, and Prado exemplify, “KPop Demon Hunters” resonates on multiple levels. It invites K-pop fans, music fans and newcomers alike to appreciate its rich storytelling, stunning visuals, unique characters, and catchy music.
Whether through a lens of fandom or as an artistic endeavor. As its popularity continues to grow, the conversations initiated by fans reflect the film’s ability to inspire, change the narrative and engage diverse audiences across the globe, making the Honmoon “Golden.”
