The fictional band Huntr/x, featured in *K-Pop Demon Hunters*, has achieved significant acclaim with their song “Golden.”
Netflix recently expanded its animated film repertoire with *K-Pop Demon Hunters*, a musical offering that has rapidly gained a massive following since its launch in June. Celebrated for its catchy soundtrack laden with Korean pop hits, the film has captured the hearts of audiences across various age groups. The standout track, “Golden,” has notably climbed to the No. 1 spot on Billboard’s Top 100 chart, marking the first time a fictional group has topped the charts since the success of Encanto’s “We Don’t Talk About Bruno” in 2022.
*K-Pop Demon Hunters* has become Netflix’s most-watched animated film ever, not solely due to its engaging music but also thanks to the striking visuals crafted by the Sony Animation team, which echo the aesthetics of anime. The film’s brisk pacing and a script that harmoniously blends humor with emotional depth further enrich the viewing experience.
(Spoilers ahead.)
The storyline introduces its central conflict succinctly. In a mythical past, demons wreaked havoc upon humanity until three gifted singers, who also served as demon hunters, created the Honmoon—a magical barrier formed by their voices—to encase the demons. Through the generations, various musical trios have upheld the Honmoon with the hope that it will one day achieve its ultimate form: the Golden Honmoon, which would permanently seal away the demons.
Opposing this goal is the demon king Gwi-Ma, voiced by Lee Byung-hun, who plots to thwart the new wave of demon hunters—the K-Pop band Huntr/x. The trio consists of lead singer Rumi (voiced by Arden Cho), dancer and choreographer Mira (May Hong), and American-born rapper Zoey (Ji-young Yoo). Rumi, however, grapples with a hidden truth: her lineage includes demon blood, evidenced by distinctive purple patterns on her body that she conceals from her bandmates.
In a bid to dismantle the Honmoon, Gwi-Ma dispatches five demons to form a rival K-Pop group, the Saja Boys, led by Jinu (Ahn Hyo-seop). The boys’ rapid rise to fame threatens the very existence of Huntr/x right as Rumi’s visible patterns begin to jeopardize her vocal abilities.
How it’s done, done, done
Rumi’s vocal challenge is particularly significant as the new hit song “Golden,” performed by acclaimed South Korean artist Ejae, showcases an impressive three-octave range, culminating in a soaring A-5 note. This piece is intended to be the defining showcase for the Golden Honmoon. Its composition draws inspiration from traditional “I Want” songs typically featured in Disney narratives.
Complementing “Golden,” other tracks stand out as well. The energetic song “How It’s Done” highlights a thrilling action sequence aboard Huntr/x’s private jet, while the Saja Boys make their splash with the lively “Soda Pop.” The film also features the diss track “Takedown,” performed by members of the girl group Twice, matched by a heartfelt duet between Rumi and Jinu, titled “Free.” As the rivalry escalates, the Saja Boys attempt to capture the fans’ hearts with “Your Idol,” prompting Huntr/x to retaliate with their new track, “What It Sounds Like.”
Co-director Maggie Kang, who partnered with Chris Appelhans in creating the film, aims to pay homage to K-pop and her Korean heritage. She also incorporates elements of traditional Korean folklore, evident in the Saja Boys’ name, which echoes the jeoseung saja, a figure akin to the grim reaper. Meanwhile, Huntr/x employs traditional weaponry, with each character showcasing a unique armament: Rumi’s saingeom sword, Mira’s gokdo polearm, and Zoey’s shinkal throwing knives. Jinu’s companion animals, a tiger named Derpy and a magpie named Sussy, inspired by a style of Korean folk art, add a humorous touch.
Some reviewers have noted that *K-Pop Demon Hunters* sacrifices character and thematic development for a concise plotline. While the story may adhere to conventional tropes, the South Korean influences and infectious melodies give it a unique flavor and substantial appeal. The film effectively conveys the message of music’s ability to heal, unite, and foster community, celebrating authenticity over an unattainable quest for perfection.
*K-Pop Demon Hunters* is currently available for streaming on Netflix. Kang has expressed interest in producing a sequel and additional side stories to expand the film’s universe, and given its overwhelming success, it is likely that Netflix would welcome such opportunities.
