This weekend belonged to Netflix, as its original animated film KPop Demon Hunters led the pack at the North American box office. The film raked in an impressive $18-$20 million from a special sing-along event, a commanding performance that saw it easily outpace its theatrical competitors. This marks a rare and significant box office win for the streaming service.
The film had already established itself as a dominant force on the small screen, becoming the second-most-viewed movie in Netflix’s history. This immense popularity, combined with a hit-filled soundtrack, created a perfect storm for a successful theatrical crossover.
The sing-along event was the vehicle for this crossover, playing in 1,700 theaters to an overwhelmingly positive response. An estimated 1,150 screenings were sold out as fans embraced the opportunity for a communal and interactive experience. The event’s success demonstrates a viable new revenue stream for Netflix’s biggest hits.
Featuring the K-pop girl group Huntr/x, who secretly battle demons, the film’s fresh and energetic story has now been validated at the box office. This victory provides a welcome jolt to the industry and serves as a powerful statement of Netflix’s growing influence.