It’s a clear victory for Netflix as its original animated film, KPop Demon Hunters, earned a stunning estimated $18-$20 million in theaters this weekend. The film, already a massive hit on the streaming platform, topped the box office charts through a special sing-along event, demonstrating the company’s growing power to draw audiences to the big screen. The result surpassed all expectations, pushing the horror film Weapons to second place.
This theatrical triumph was built on the film’s unprecedented success on Netflix, where it has become the second-most-watched movie in the company’s history. A key element of its appeal has been its wildly popular soundtrack, which created a global community of fans who were perfectly primed for a communal, music-focused event.
The two-day sing-along event was launched in 1,700 theaters, and the public response was overwhelming. An estimated 1,150 screenings were sold out, as fans eagerly gathered to participate in the immersive experience. The event’s success proved to be a lucrative venture for participating cinema chains like Regal and Cinemark.
The film’s narrative, following the K-pop group Huntr/x who lead double lives as demon slayers, has captured the imagination of millions. This successful theatrical run not only boosts the summer’s overall box office revenue but also solidifies the film’s status as a major cultural phenomenon.