Netflix’s most recent animated movie showed fans around the world how it’s done.
The streaming service is known for a multitude of successes, including Stranger Things, Squid Game, and Wednesday, but K-Pop Demon Hunters stole the show this summer.
The movie made between $18 million and $20 million at the box office during its two-day theatrical sing-along event (Aug. 23-24) and was a booming success for at-home streaming. The soundtrack has also reached global popularity, going up, up, up on the Billboard charts with songs like “Golden,” “Soda Pop,” and “Your Idol.”
The story centers around Rumi, Zoey, and Mira, a trio of famous popstars known as HUNTR/X who fight demons with their songs. They are one group among generations of demon-fighting trios working to seal the Honmoon, a mythical barrier that will shut all demons from the world, and defeat the demon king Gwi-Ma. The Saja Boys, a quintet of demons disguised as a charming boy band, are sent down by Gwi-Ma to thwart Huntrix’s efforts.
However, Rumi has a secret. Her whole life, she’s been hiding her half-demon heritage from her friends, scared of their rejection. But when her powers spiral out of control, she is forced to confront the secret she’s repressed for so long. Rumi’s insecurity was something relatable. Her journey towards self-acceptance also showed how even though it can be scary, taking the step towards being authentically and audaciously yourself is better than living a lie.
Freshman Ellis Lit said “It was one of the better movies I’ve seen in a while and a fun watch. My favorite part was the ‘Soda Pop’ dance.”
The “Soda Pop” dance has become a popular trend to recreate. The dance is meant to mimic drinking soda. Choreography includes pretending to hold and drink a can of soda, outstretching a hand as if offering soda to another person, and shoulder and hip movements.
Maggie Kang (Lego Ninjago, Rise of the Guardians) created and co-directed the movie with Chris Appelhans (Coraline, Princess and the Frog, Rise of the Guardians). K-Pop Demon Hunters’ concept was pitched by Kang nearly seven years ago, and production began in March 2021. Rumi herself was originally designed by Kang’s spouse and creative partner, Radford Sechrist, for a project called “Plastic Walrus.” But to Kang and fans, she has always been meant for the stage.
K-Pop Demon Hunters resonates with fans on a global scale through impactful messages, catchy songs, and laughs. It’s worth watching for anyone with a Netflix subscription who is looking for a nice blast to the past with an animated movie.
Plus, rumor has it the concepts of a sequel and live action are being explored back at Netflix headquarters.
