Spoilers are going to need a blue tiger plushie, stat.
I’m pretty sure Netflix didn’t expect this one to become their most watched film by the end of August, but then again viral status doesn’t have a formula. That being said, I’m pretty sure there’s insiders trying to dissect what made this one such a popular hit. Is it entertaining? Yes. Do you have to know anything about K-Pop to start watching it? No, but the movie does a good balancing act in both allowing newcomers and still leaving enough insider tropes a regular K-Pop fan will recognize easily.
K-Pop Demon Hunters (2025) is directed by Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans. They co-wrote the screenplay with Danya Jimenez and Hannah McMechan. The original story is by Maggie Kang, who wanted to write a story using elements inspired by her Korean culture. Meet the K-Pop girl group HUNTR/X: Rumi, Mira and Zoey. They dominate the pop charts with their music and banish the demon hordes that come after human souls. Yes, there are demons in the world but that is what our secret demon hunters slay almost flawlessly. Head demon Gwi-ma is not happy, which is when a new scheme develops: five demons lead by Jinu form a demon boy group to bring down our heroines.
It works. Yes, it will use tropes and cliches and you might recognize the premise a mile away. But it has a well-done execution that puts entertainment first and doesn’t take itself too seriously. What it is, is basically done for your amusement. I could criticize it for reinforcing tropes or supporting consumerism, but it’s not meant to be taken too seriously.
Recommended with reservations. It’s a bit of light entertainment without feeling like mindless filler or pretentious drivel. Worth a watch for a rainy day or after a long day at work. Just be aware that songs are catchy and might get stuck inside your head for a while.
That will do for now.
Never Think Impossible 