In an unprecedented move for a streaming company, Netflix’s animated feature KPop Demon Hunters has claimed the top spot at the North American box office. The film grossed an estimated $18 million to $20 million during a special two-day sing-along event, proving that a streaming hit can translate its online popularity into theatrical gold. This victory marks a significant and rare box office achievement for Netflix.
The film’s success was not entirely unforeseen, given its massive online following. KPop Demon Hunters originally debuted on Netflix in June, rapidly becoming a global phenomenon and securing its place as the second-most-watched film in the platform’s history. Its soundtrack has also enjoyed immense success, with tracks like “Golden” and “Your Idol” dominating music charts, including Billboard’s Hot 100.
The transition to the big screen was facilitated by a special sing-along version that played in 1,700 theaters across North America. Fan enthusiasm was palpable, with reports indicating that approximately 1,150 screenings were completely sold out. While major chains like Regal and Cinemark screened the event, AMC Theaters, the world’s largest chain, declined to participate due to its policy against showing films already available for streaming.
Directed by Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans, the film follows Huntr/x, a K-pop girl group that secretly battles demons to protect their fans. Their main adversaries are a rival boy band composed of disguised demons. This impressive box office performance provided a much-needed jolt to a relatively slow summer season, which is currently tracking below pre-pandemic revenue levels.