KPop Demon Hunters: A Cultural Phenomenon Eyes Academy Glory

Maggie Kang, the creator and co-director of KPop Demon Hunters, has expressed her excitement for further adventures involving the animated girl group Huntr/x.

During a recent interview in Europe, Kang shared that while there are currently no official announcements regarding sequels, both she and co-director Chris Appelhans feel there is vast potential to explore the characters' universe further. Whatever it will be, it will be a story that deserves to be a sequel, and it will be something that we want to see, she added.

KPop Demon Hunters has turned into a cultural sensation, recently surpassing Squid Game as Netflix's most-watched title ever, racking up over 325 million views. The animated film follows the journey of a female Kpop trio that performs sold-out concerts while saving the world from demons, engaging audiences around the globe.

With its meteoric rise, the film is now seen as a strong contender for the upcoming Oscars. Critics laud the film, and it boasts a 95% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. More significantly, it is currently leading the race for Best Animated Feature at the Academy Awards, ahead of other noteworthy films including Zootopia 2 and Elio.

Appelhans reflected on the film's unique appeal: The title alone is obviously Oscar bait, and we're proud of what we achieved. If people are going to reward that, that would be awesome.

In terms of Best Original Song, both directors are advocating for their favorites, with Kang backing the Saja Boys' number While Appelhans is inclined towards Huntr/x's climactic anthem.

The film was first recognized as a hit just days after its release. By observing audience engagement on social media, particularly through TikTok, Appelhans realized the film resonated deeply with viewers. Kang shares this sentiment, stating that the combination of Kpop fandom and animation enthusiasts has propelled the film to unexpected heights.

The cultural impact of KPop Demon Hunters continues to grow, with its reach extending into mainstream media appearances, including performances on platforms such as Saturday Night Live. Kang reflected on her pride in the film and its impact, emphasizing that regardless of awards, the film itself has already won in many ways through its connections with audiences.

In conclusion, Kang and Appelhans assert their commitment to the animated medium and dismiss any rumors of a live-action adaptation, emphasizing the unique storytelling opportunities animation affords. With high hopes for future projects and recognition, KPop Demon Hunters stands poised to leave an indelible mark on both audiences and the animation industry.