Netflix Seeks to Transform 'KPop Demon Hunters' into Its Upcoming Blockbuster Series Franchise
In a thrilling turn of events, the beloved Netflix animation "KPop Demon Hunters" is set to expand its universe with multiple projects in the pipeline. The franchise, which has already amassed over 132.4 million views, making it Netflix's most-watched animated film ever [1][2][3], is aiming to establish itself as a major franchise comparable to Disney's Frozen.
The most exciting development is the confirmation of a sequel to the original animated series, tentatively titled "KPop Demon Hunters 2". This sequel is expected to be part of a potential trilogy, with development ongoing [1][3][4]. Although no official release date has been announced, some speculation suggests a timeframe around 2026 to 2028 based on the original film's timeline. The sequel is likely to continue unresolved storylines from the first movie, such as new demon threats and the fate of certain characters like Jinu [3].
Beyond the animated sequels, Netflix is actively exploring a live-action adaptation, although details remain scarce and production start dates have not been confirmed [2]. The idea of a live-action remake has generated mixed reactions, with some considering it potentially excessive. However, Netflix appears committed to exploring all formats, including a stage musical that would bring the fictional KPop group's choreography to real-world performances.
The original songs in "KPop Demon Hunters" are not only entertaining but also rising on the Billboard charts [5]. In fact, "Golden" recently returned to the number one spot on the Billboard Global 200 [6]. To celebrate this success, a vinyl and plushie release for the series has been announced.
The film, released on Netflix on June 20, 2021, tells the story of Rumi, Mira, and Zoey, a girl group named Huntr/x, who must balance their skyrocketing superstardom with their secret identity as demon hunters. Director Kang expressed a desire to depict women who are allowed to be silly, crass, and imperfect in "KPop Demon Hunters". Twice's Jeongyeon, Jihyo, and Chaeyoung performed an end-credits version of a track, "Takedown", in the film.
Intriguingly, a short film for "KPop Demon Hunters" is being discussed to further "bridge content" between films. Actor Ji-young Yoo has a pitch for a potential sequel film, focusing on the character Zoey, exploring her own struggles and finding a place where she doesn't feel the need to please others.
As we eagerly await more updates on the "KPop Demon Hunters" franchise, the Academy has shown interest in the series' music, leading to the submission of tracks for award nominations at the Academy Awards [7]. With such a promising future ahead, it's clear that "KPop Demon Hunters" is here to stay.
[1] https://www.thewrap.com/netflix-kpop-demon-hunters-sequel-trilogy-live-action-remake-stage-musical-spinoff-short-films/ [2] https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/netflix-kpop-demon-hunters-sequel-spinoff-live-action-remake-1235111233/ [3] https://variety.com/2022/film/asia/kpop-demon-hunters-sequel-trilogy-netflix-1235108489/ [4] https://www.polygon.com/2022/8/2/23289406/kpop-demon-hunters-sequel-netflix-kpop-anime-release-date-trilogy [5] https://www.billboard.com/music/k-pop/articles/kpop-demon-hunters-billboard-charts [6] https://www.billboard.com/music/k-pop/news/kpop-demon-hunters-golden-returns-to-no-1-on-billboard-global-200-chart-1235160454/ [7] https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/kpop-demon-hunters-academy-awards-nomination-consideration-1235111231/
- Gizmodo reported that Netflix is planning multiple projects for the hugely successful animated series "KPop Demon Hunters," including a possible live-action adaptation and a potential stage musical.
- Io9 mentioned the Academy's interest in the series' music, leading to the submission of tracks for award nominations at the Academy Awards.
- The forthcoming animated sequel, titled "KPop Demon Hunters 2," is expected to be part of a potential trilogy, exploring new demon threats and the fate of characters like Jinu.
- Entertainment Weekly has discussed a short film for "KPop Demon Hunters" as a means to bridge content between films, with actor Ji-young Yoo proposing a potential sequel film focusing on the character Zoey.
