An absolute triumph. An electrifying, authentic, addictive, intense and empowering animated musical.
That’s how I would describe the Netflix original animated movie KPop Demon Hunters, directed by Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans. Released in June 2025, it has perfectly merged the high-energy world of K-pop with scenes from movies depicting supernatural forces.
The filmmakers take us into the world of the band HUNTR/X, which consists of determined leader Rumi (Arden Cho), the chaotic and relatable Zoey (Ji-young Yoo) and the rebellious Mira (May Hong) as they take on their rivals, the Saja Boys, whose members moonlight as demons. Ken Jeong plays their energetic manager Bobby, while Ahn Hyo-seop, Joel Kim Booster, Alan Lee, SungWon Cho and Danny Chung play the villainous and wicked Saja Boys. Lee Byung-hun plays the malevolent demon king Gwi-Ma.
What makes KPop Demon Hunters shine so brightly is how seamlessly it blends genres without ever feeling forced. The action sequences are so explosive and stunning. There are synchronized dance routines that double as combat choreography. The animation bursts with infectious energy, exaggerated expressions inspired by famous anime works, and dynamic camera work that makes every performance and fight feel cinematic.
A fast-paced, visually stunning animated masterpiece, it never lets up on the spectacle. But the real MVP of this movie? The soundtrack. It’s packed with original bangers that I can’t resist listening to like “Soda Pop”, “Takedown”, and of course, the absolute earworm “Golden”, which has topped charts and deserved to win the Oscar for Best Original Song.
The songs aren’t just filler; they drive the plot, reveal characters’ emotions, and amp up the emotional highs and lows. This is a movie that is genuinely Korean (and American) while being accessible and fun for everyone. It’s the kind of soundtrack that makes you want to replay scenes just to sing along.
The screenplay of this movie, written by Kang, Appelhans, Danya Jimenez and Hannah McMechan balances comedy, vulnerability, identity crises, self-esteem and teamwork without ever getting preachy.
If you’re ever lost or just want a great musical journey, tune into this movie. HUNTR/X will guide the way and give you a visual delight you won’t ever forget.
KPop Demon Hunters is available on Netflix.
Directors: Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans
Starring: Arden Cho, Ji-young Yoo, May Hong, Ken Jeong, Ahn Hyo-seop, Joel Kim Booster, Alan Lee, SungWon Cho and Danny Chung
Rating: PG (for brief language, action, violence, scary images, some suggestive material and thematic elements)
Running Time: 99 minutes
Release Date: June 20, 2025
Our Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
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