The animated film KPop Demon Hunters has captivated audiences in Perth, with parents spending over $50 to take their children to see it in cinemas, despite its availability on Netflix. This weekend, a sing-along version of the film screened at local cinemas, drawing sell-out crowds. The movie, which has been streamed more than 210 million times on Netflix, is on track to become the platform’s most-watched film to date.
Three friends, Alexandra, Olivia, and Chloe, attended the screening on Saturday, already familiar with the film through multiple viewings at home. Each girl expressed her admiration for different characters. Olivia’s favorite is Zoey, the lead rapper of the KPop girl group HUNTR/X. Chloe prefers Rumi, the group’s leader, while Alexandra is drawn to Mira, the lead dancer. The girls noted that while the movie is a hit among their peers, it has not resonated as strongly with the boys in their school.
The film features catchy songs that have reached the top of global music charts. The track Golden has dominated Spotify charts in Australia and around the world since early July, while two other songs, How It’s Done and What It Sounds Like, sit at numbers nine and ten, respectively. The film’s appeal may stem from its engaging music, the unique storyline of characters battling demons through song and dance, and its vibrant animation style that incorporates elements of anime.
Local Events and Positive Messages
Local business owner Sarah Andross, who runs Rollerrama in Kalamunda, recently hosted a sell-out event themed around KPop Demon Hunters. She reported high demand for tickets, with her first event selling out quickly and a second nearly following suit. “I work with many kids on rollerblades, and they started requesting the songs about six weeks ago,” she explained. “After watching the film, I loved the vibe and thought I should create an event. The response was overwhelming—100 tickets sold out rapidly.”
Andross, who has a background in psychology, believes the movie conveys a positive message for children. “It encourages kids to be themselves and stand up for what they believe in,” she noted. “While there is some low-level violence, it is handled well. The songs promote an uplifting theme.”
The film’s narrative revolves around three women from each generation who become demon hunters, sealing demons behind a magical barrier known as the Honmoon. This generation’s protagonists—Zoey, Rumi, and Mira—also form a K-pop girl group called HUNTR/X. As they prepare for the live performance of their new single Golden, Rumi faces challenges as she begins to lose her voice, a complication stemming from her secret half-demon heritage.
The rivalry intensifies with the presence of the K-pop boy band Saja Boys, comprised of demons looking to capture HUNTR/X’s fan base. The film’s narrative unfolds against a backdrop of catchy songs and dynamic choreography, leading to Rumi’s acceptance of her identity and her journey back to vocal strength, allowing her to continue as a K-pop idol.
As KPop Demon Hunters continues to gain popularity, its influence on young audiences in Perth underscores the power of storytelling through music and animation, creating a cultural phenomenon that resonates with children and families alike.
