TW: Spoilers
In the Kpop (Korean pop) industry, every idol needs to be skilled in dance, vocals, and stage presence. But for some idols, they have to master one more skill: hunting demons.
When “Kpop Demon Hunters” (KPDH) by Sony Pictures Animation and Netflix first debuted, viewers were apprehensive about the title, the animation style, and the fact that it was a musical. Hence, critics were astonished when the movie flew up the charts, quickly becoming the number one movie in North America, and the number one animated film on Netflix.
One of the reasons why KPDH was so captivating was the novel plot itself. The movie has an extremely unique storyline that keeps viewers engaged the entire time.
In the movie, a Kpop girl group, Huntr/x (Huntrix), sings to fight against the demons, specifically a Kpop boy band called the Saja Boys.
Apart from the superficial plot, the movie was about self-acceptance, love, trust, and friendship.
There were also comedic moments in the movie that made it even more entertaining and compelling.
Of course, the music was undoubtedly one of the most impressive parts of the movie. With amazing vocals and catchy lyrics, the songs became an instant hit. Every time I heard the songs, I couldn’t help but sing along.
All of the movie’s songs, Golden, Your Idol, How It’s Done, Takedown, Soda Pop, Free, and What It Sounds Like, made it to the Top 40 of the Billboard Hot 100, and one song, Golden, took the number one spot. This is especially significant because it was the first time a Kpop girl group had reached number one.
The singer for Rumi, the main character, was Ejae. Ejae was formerly trained to become a Kpop idol but instead turned to singing and songwriting. She is credited in Golden, Your Idol, and How It’s Done.
Not only did it have an exceptional plot and beautiful vocals, the movie also showcased Korean culture.
Audiences were able to see an aspect of Korea and Korean culture that many are not familiar with. It gave a peek into the lives of Kpop idols and their rigorous schedules.
It also showed Korean traditional mythology and aspects of Korean culture. Cultural elements of cuisine, such as ramyeon and gimbap; clothing, such as gap (Korean hat) and hanbok; and mannerisms, such as bowing when greeting, were also included to showcase the movie’s connection to Korean culture.
Actual locations in Korea were also present, such as N Seoul Tower and other historic sites.
The movie garnered so much attention and popularity that Netflix set up a two-day event where fans could watch the movie in theaters and sing along with the songs. The event sold out of tickets, topping the box office.
As of August 25, Netflix has released a sing-along version of the movie.
After ending on a slightly sad note, with Jinu, the main love interest, sacrificing himself, many fans are hoping for a second movie.
It has not been confirmed yet if there will be another movie, but it is widely rumored to be currently under development.
Overall, this was an amazing movie that surprised everyone who watched it. I thoroughly enjoyed this movie and recommend it to everyone!