What do you obtain when you combine K-pop fame, demon-fighting thrills, and mesmerizing animation? The answer: Netflix’s incredibly entertaining new animated film KPop Demon Hunters, which I viewed on the same day it was released over the weekend — my quick conclusion being that it’s an absolute delight. Even for someone like me, who isn’t particularly knowledgeable about K-pop.
Directed by Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans, KPop Demon Hunters is produced by the same studio that brought us Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse and Netflix’s The Mitchells vs. The Machines. In other words: Wow, the animation in this film is breathtaking, teeming with vibrant colors and dynamism. And the narrative is equally thrilling, blending breathtaking action sequences with a soundtrack filled with original K-pop hits.
The main characters are a trio of superstar K-pop idols named Rumi, Mira, and Zoey who (in this tale) rule the charts by day and hunt down demons by night. The plot truly escalates when the girls confront their fiercest competition yet: The Saja Boys, a captivating boy band composed of heartthrobs that are also actual demons. I don’t want to reveal too much about the boy band’s intentions, as that would ruin much of the story. However, I will mention that even a K-pop novice like me could recognize all of the movie’s subtle (and not-so-subtle) references to real-world K-pop idols and their passionate fanbases.
In short, this film was undoubtedly crafted by individuals who have a genuine passion for the genre. And speaking of this: It goes without saying that a K-pop movie warrants an engaging, catchy soundtrack. Does this one meet that expectation? K-pop enthusiasts, you decide:
In my view, several tracks featured in KPop Demon Hunters, including hits like “Golden” and “Takedown,” could likely compete on the charts in real life, alongside some industry legends. Additionally, members of the actual K-pop girl group TWICE (Jeongyeon, Jihyo, and Chaeyoung) contribute their voices to a special rendition of “Takedown,” which appears in the movie’s end credits and is currently inspiring a TikTok dance challenge.
“Never a dull song in this whole film,” one fan exclaimed on X. “Absolute cinema. Give me a TV show with 15 seasons and 24-hour episodes, 27 sequels and prequels, and a graphic novel.” I can’t say I disagree with that feeling.
From the emotional journey of a pop diva learning to accept her true self to the stunning anime-style visuals, KPop Demon Hunters is packed with one dazzling spectacle after another — and I had a fantastic time watching it. It was pure escapist entertainment, and you can’t ask for much more than that from an animated feature film.
