BTS, Stray Kids, BLACKPINK, EXO, and…HUNTR/X? With chart-topping songs since its debut, the K-pop girl group HUNTR/X has risen to fame across the world and joined the ranks amongst popular bands from companies like JYP Entertainment. The surprising part: these K-pop idols are fictional demon-slaying singers.
A Netflix musical movie, “K-Pop Demon Hunters,” has become a shockingly popular movie for kids, and even adults. While popular PG movies have been a bit lackluster over the past few years, K-Pop Demon Hunters has easily proved that the popularity of animation persists. The film became the most-watched movie on Netflix after its release, reaching around 300 million views in just 91 days. The songs themselves topped the charts as well, with “Golden,” the HUNTR/X’s main song, staying in the number one spot on Billboard Hot 100 for eight weeks.
Although K-pop might not be everyone’s top music choice and an animation about demon-fighting icons may cause some to label the show as “young” or “cheesy,” the HUNTR/X craze finds a hold in every demographic. With a vibrant, expressive art style, the movie is spectacularly animated, and there is never a dull moment. The music is so catchy that you might find yourself begrudgingly humming along to “Your Idol” on your morning run or belting “Takedown” while getting ready for a game. (Although some parents may be ready to cry after listening to “Soda Pop” for the millionth time at their kid’s request). The movie is also extremely funny, implementing hilarious lines and humorous animation to entertain the audience. Truly, watching the movie is like being at a concert with one of your favorite bands. K-Pop Demon Hunters, without a doubt, is a great movie for any occasion, whether it be family night, Halloween, or a birthday party.
The show also beautifully handles tough topics in a way so that all ages can relate. Whether you resonate with Rumi’s conflict around self-confidence and identity or Mira’s longing for a close family, anyone can learn from the story. Kids can learn how to build good friendships and love themselves no matter what, and older viewers can learn and reflect on the same while also reconnecting to a love for animation. Heads up: you will both laugh out loud and cry hard in the span of 15 minutes.
So grab your microphone and sword, click that Netflix icon, and settle in for an hour and a half of insane music, heartbreaking plot twists, and a healing story of three demon slayers and their path to self-discovery.
