Netflix’s hit animated film, KPop Demon Hunters, just took the #1 spot at the domestic box office this past weekend. An impressive feat, considering the streaming giant rarely takes anything to theaters. It took a massive leap of faith with KPop Demon Hunters, and it has paid off in a significant way. Even though the movie has been available to stream at home for two months, Netflix released it in over 1,700 theaters as a special sing-along event. And fans didn’t let them down, with the film raking in an impressive $18 million!
The Theatrical Experience Is Alive and Well
This box office victory completely upends a long-standing debate. For years, the argument has been that people won’t go to theaters to see a movie they can stream for free at home. However, the success of KPop Demon Hunters proves that’s not always the case.
What’s Next for Netflix?
So, is this a new era for Netflix, or is KPop Demon Hunters a one-off success story? That’s the big question. What we do know is that this is the first time a Netflix film has ever topped the box office. We wouldn’t be surprised if we see more theatrical releases from the streaming service in the future.
While this theatrical run was just a one-weekend experiment, Netflix has already released the sing-along version of the movie on its streaming service. And since the film has been a global sensation, a sequel is already being discussed, along with a potential live-action adaptation.
About the Film
In the action-packed movie, “When Korean pop superstars Rumi, Mira, and Zoey aren’t selling out stadiums, they’re using their secret identities as demon hunters to protect their fans from ever-present supernatural danger. Together, they must face their biggest threat — an irresistible rival boy band of demons in disguise.”
Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans direct the film, which stars a fantastic cast including Arden Cho, Ahn Hyo-seop, Daniel Dae Kim, and Ken Jeong.
What’s your opinion? Would you go to theaters to see a movie that’s streaming? Let us know in the comments.
