KPop Demon Hunters, a film that began as a streaming hit, transformed into a box office juggernaut this weekend, earning an estimated $18 million to $20 million. The Netflix animated feature dominated the North American charts through a special sing-along event, proving that the path to theatrical success is no longer limited to traditional studio releases. It comfortably out-earned projected winners like the horror film Weapons.
The film’s incredible journey started on Netflix, where its June premiere led to it becoming the platform’s second-most-viewed movie in history. Its cultural footprint expanded with a chart-dominating soundtrack, featuring hits like “Golden,” which cultivated a massive and loyal fanbase around the globe. This pre-existing audience was crucial for the theatrical experiment.
The two-day sing-along event was a strategic masterclass in fan engagement. Hosted across 1,700 cinemas, the interactive format proved immensely popular, resulting in approximately 1,150 sold-out screenings. While exhibitors like Regal and Cinemark embraced the opportunity, the nation’s largest chain, AMC Theaters, refused to participate, citing the film’s streaming availability.
The movie, directed by Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans, features the K-pop girl group Huntr/x, who lead a double life as protectors against demonic forces. This box office triumph provides a significant boost to a summer season that has been lagging behind pre-pandemic figures.
