The power of music and fandom was on full display this weekend as KPop Demon Hunters sang its way to the top of the box office. The Netflix animated feature earned an estimated $18-$20 million during a nationwide sing-along event, a remarkable feat for a movie already available to stream at home. The film’s earnings easily surpassed the $15.6 million made by its closest competitor, Weapons.
This box office success story began on Netflix, where the movie became a global sensation and the platform’s second-most-viewed film. Its soundtrack became equally popular, spawning chart-topping hits that created a dedicated community of fans. It was this community that turned out in droves for the theatrical event, eager to share their love for the film’s music.
The two-day event was held in 1,700 theaters, with an impressive 1,150 screenings selling out completely. Exhibitors like Regal and Cinemark welcomed the opportunity to fill seats during a slow period, a strategy that clearly paid off. However, the event was not without controversy, as AMC Theaters refused to show the film, citing its streaming availability.
Directed by Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans, the film revolves around the K-pop group Huntr/x, who balance their music careers with their secret lives as demon slayers. The success of their theatrical run highlights the potential of event-based cinema and provides a bright spot for the industry as the summer season comes to a close.