Toronto’s Maggie Kang may have created one of the most popular movies of the year, with her film “KPop Demon Hunters” amassing 236 million views on Netflix, setting a new record. The movie has also had a successful theatrical release, featuring sing-along screenings for enthusiastic fans worldwide.
Despite the film’s immense success, Kang expressed surprise at the overwhelming positive response during an interview with CBC Radio’s “Q with Tom Power.” She mentioned that she never expected the movie to gain such massive popularity due to its unique concept and non-traditional elements.
The idea of an animated musical centered around K-pop culture was initially met with skepticism from various industry players. However, Kang, along with co-writer-director Chris Appelhans, was determined to bring their innovative concept to life. The film’s storyline, which combines elements of K-pop music and demon-hunting, intrigued producer Aron Warner, leading to the creation of “KPop Demon Hunters.”
The movie follows the journey of Rumi, Mira, and Zoey, members of the K-pop group Huntr/x, who not only entertain fans with their music but also battle soul-eating demons. The film’s success was initially doubted by Sony, prompting a unique collaboration with Netflix for distribution and production support.
One of the key factors contributing to the movie’s success is its exceptional soundtrack, featuring hit songs that have dominated the Billboard charts. The film’s focus on music, coupled with collaborations with K-pop superstars, played a significant role in captivating audiences worldwide.
Despite initial challenges, “KPop Demon Hunters” has broken records and garnered critical acclaim, leading to a successful theatrical release. The film’s unique storytelling and fusion of diverse elements have resonated with audiences, showcasing the growing popularity of Korean pop culture on a global scale.
