In a stunning box office coup, Netflix’s animated film KPop Demon Hunters outperformed major studio tentpoles to claim the weekend’s top spot. The film grossed an estimated $18-$20 million from a limited sing-along event, a remarkable achievement that underscores the growing influence of streaming platforms in the theatrical domain. It easily surpassed the earnings of its closest competitors.
The film’s path to this victory was paved with its incredible success on Netflix, where it stands as the second-most-watched movie of all time. This massive viewership created a powerful brand identity and a legion of fans who were eager to experience the film in a new, more interactive way. The hit soundtrack was also a crucial factor in building this dedicated following.
The two-day theatrical event was a bold but calculated move. Screened in 1,700 locations, the sing-along version attracted huge crowds, with reports of 1,150 sold-out shows. The willingness of exhibitors like Regal and Cinemark to partner with Netflix on this unconventional release has been handsomely rewarded.
The movie’s unique premise—a K-pop group that secretly slays demons—has clearly resonated with a wide audience. Its box office triumph has shaken up the industry and provided a welcome boost to the summer’s lagging revenue numbers.