Yes, Netflix wants round two
Good news for anyone who loved catchy hooks, stylish animation, and the comforting idea that demons can be run out of town with choreography: Netflix has confirmed a sequel to KPop Demon Hunters. Directors Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans are returning, and Sony Pictures Animation will produce the follow-up.
Why this was inevitable
The first movie did what studios dream about. It pulled in over 325 million views and earned the title of Netflix's most-watched movie ever. It also became the first Netflix film to hit No. 1 at the box office during its debut weekend, scoring a two-day gross of about $19 million. After an extra weekend push that added roughly $6 million, the movie sits at nearly $25 million in domestic grosses.
Directors and deals
This sequel is not just a one-off encore. It is the first project to come out of the directors' new exclusive multi-year writing and directing deal across animation. Translation: Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans will be busy, and Netflix is betting a lot on their weird, wonderful world.
What the creators said
- Maggie Kang said she feels proud as a Korean filmmaker that audiences want more of this story and its Korean characters, and teased that there is much more to explore.
- Chris Appelhans said the characters feel like family, that their world has become a second home, and that the team is excited to write the next chapter and push the boundaries of music, animation, and story.
- Netflix leadership praised the film for igniting a global fandom that crossed languages and generations, and said the streamer is thrilled to expand the universe with Sony Pictures Animation.
Bottom line
If you thought the last movie was a one-hit wonder, think again. The numbers and the fandom say otherwise. Expect more demon-slaying, more choreography, and more proof that a strong soundtrack can take over the world. Pop some corn and get ready to stan responsibly.
