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Tag: KPop Demon Hunters

  • ‘KPop Demon Hunters’ Singing Voice Stars Get BAFTA Awards Grooving With “Golden”

    Netflix‘s KPop Demon Hunters singing voice stars took the stage at the BAFTA Film Awards in London on Sunday evening, getting a game crowd grooving. In their first-ever live performance outside the U.S., EJAE, who provides the singing voice for Rumi, Audrey Nuna, who sings Mira’s lines, and Rei Ami, who stars as the singing voice of Zoey, performed their Grammy-winning hit “Golden” at Britain’s biggest movie awards night.

    Cameras showed audience members nodding along, shaking their shoulders and otherwise getting into the music.

    “Performing at the EE BAFTA Film Awards is a golden moment that our younger selves could never have imagined,” the trio had said when they were unveiled as performers. “We’re so proud to represent Netflix’s KPop Demon Hunters and spread the film’s positive message to fans around the globe.” The movie tells the story of three women who are demon hunters and use their singing voices to create a magical barrier against demons called the Honmoon.

    Emma Baehr, executive director of awards & content at BAFTA, highlighted at the time that the Sony-produced KPop Demon Hunters has had a “phenomenal impact on the hearts and minds of audiences of all ages around the world” since its release last summer. “We are thrilled the talented singers behind HUNTR/X will bring their K-pop energy to the EE BAFTA Film Awards next month.”

    Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans’ animated musical has become Netflix’s most popular film of all time and is nominated for the Oscar for best animated feature film. “Golden,” the headline track, also scored an Academy Award nom for best original song. It also became the most-streamed song globally last year.

    On Saturday, KPop Demon Hunters swept the Annie Awards, the animation honors handed out by the L.A. Branch of the International Animated Film Association, ASIFA-Hollywood. The film won 10 honors, including for best feature, best FX, best character animation, best character design and best production design.

    The BAFTA Film Awards, hosted by Alan Cumming, were taking place at the Royal Festival Hall at London’s Southbank Center. Find the full winners list here.

    Georg Szalai

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  • ‘KPop Demon Hunters’ Sweeps Annie Awards

    KPop Demon Hunters is unstoppable.

    Netflix‘s come-from-nowhere global animation phenomenon swept this year’s Annie Awards, the animation honors handed out by the L.A. Branch of the International Animated Film Association, ASIFA-Hollywood, taking 10 prizes, including best feature.

    The pop musical, directed by Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans, also won best direction, best music, best writing, best editorial and best voice acting for Arden Cho, who voices Rumi. It also swept the technical categories at the Annies, winning best FX, best character animation, best character design and best production design.

    Netflix launched the Sony-produced KPop Demon Hunters last summer with little promotion or fanfare, but it became an overnight sensation and the streamer’s most-watched movie of all time, with a reported 481.6 million views worldwide in the second half of 2025.

    KPop indie competitor at the Oscars, Ugo Bienvenu’s hand-drawn French feature Arco, won the prize for best independent feature at the Annies.

    A number of past Annie Awards winners have gone on to win the best animated feature Oscar. The last Annie best feature winner to also triumph at the Academy Awards was Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio in 2023. Last year, the Annie Awards’ top prize went to The Wild Robot. The Oscars opted for Annie best independent winner Flow.

    In the television categories, notable winners included Adult Swim’s Common Side Effects, which won in the best TV/media mature category; Hulu’s The Wonderfully Weird World of Gumball, winner of the best TV/media children honor; and Disney+’s Win Or Lose, which took the best limited series prize. Wow Lisa, a Spanish-language Chilean show, which combines 3D characters placed within scale-model, crafted backgrounds, won the Annie for best preschool series.

    ASIFA-Hollywood presented its lifetime achievement honors, the Winsor McCay Award, to Dutch writer and director Michaël Dudok de Wit (The Red Turtle), The Lego Movie and Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs writer-directors Christopher Miller and Phil Lord and writer-director Chris Sanders (Lilo and Stitch, How to Train Your Dragon, Wild Robot).

    Sandy Rabins, an animation and live action producer, who was a driving force behind ASIFA-Hollywood’s AnimAID, which provided assistance and support for those in the animation industry who were affected by the L.A. wildfires, received the June Foray Award for “significant and benevolent impact to the animation community.”

    The Ub Iwerks Award for technical advancement affecting the animation industry went to Japanese company Wacom, manufacturer of the Cintiq graphics tablet, which has become the industry standard for professional 2D animation, storyboarding and concept art.

    Animation fair LightBox Expo received a special achievement award for bringing “the creative animation community of filmmakers together with animation students and fans.” The ASIFA-Hollywood Merit Award is given by the board of directors to individuals for current and on-going service to the organization and the animation industry went to Jeffrey New and Haley Mirren Douthit.

    Full list of 2026 Annie Award Winners:

    BEST FEATURE
    KPop Demon Hunters
    Sony Pictures Animation for Netflix

    BEST FEATURE – INDEPENDENT
    Arco
    Remembers, MountainA France, France 3 Cinéma

    BEST SPECIAL PRODUCTION
    Snoopy Presents: A Summer Musical
    WildBrain Studios in association with Apple

    BEST SHORT SUBJECT
    Snow Bear
    The Art of Aaron Blaise

    BEST SPONSORED
    Olipop Yeti
    Screen Novelties & Passion Pictures

    BEST TV/MEDIA – PRESCHOOL
    Wow Lisa
    Episode: Rainy Day
    Punkrobot

    BEST TV/MEDIA – CHILDREN
    The Wonderfully Weird World of Gumball
    Episode: The Rewrite
    Hanna-Barbera Studios Europe

    BEST TV/MEDIA – MATURE
    Common Side Effects
    Episode: Pilot
    Green Street Pictures, Bandera Entertainment and Williams Street Productions

    BEST TV/MEDIA – LIMITED SERIES
    Win Or Lose
    Episode: Home
    Pixar Animation Studios

    BEST STUDENT FILM
    A Sparrow’s Song
    Tobias Eckerlin
    Filmakademie Baden-Württemberg GmbH

    BEST FX – TV/MEDIA
    Edward Ferrysienanda, Kevin Christensen, Guy Schuleman, Benedikt Roettger, Kevin Tarpinian
    Prehistoric Planet: Ice Age
    Episode: The Big Freeze
    BBC Studios Natural History Unit
    FX: Framestore

    BEST FX – FEATURE
    Filippo Macari, Nicola Finizio, Simon Corbaux, Naoki Kato, Daniel La Chapelle
    KPop Demon Hunters
    Sony Pictures Animation for Netflix
    FX: Sony Pictures Imageworks

    BEST CHARACTER ANIMATION – TV/MEDIA
    Alli Sadegiani
    Win Or Lose
    Pixar Animation Studios

    BEST CHARACTER ANIMATION – FEATURE
    Ryusuke Furuya
    KPop Demon Hunters
    Sony Pictures Animation, Netflix

    BEST CHARACTER ANIMATION – LIVE ACTION
    Kayn Garcia, Jean-Denis Haas, Meena Ibrahim, Nathan McConnel, Nick Tripodi
    How To Train Your Dragon
    DreamWorks Animation
    FX: Framestore

    BEST CHARACTER ANIMATION – VIDEO GAME
    Mike Jungbluth, Sebastien Dussault, Vincent Schneider, Remi Edmond
    South of Midnight
    Compulsion Games

    BEST CHARACTER DESIGN – TV/MEDIA
    Robert Valley
    Love, Death + Robots
    Episode: 400 Boys
    Blur Studio for Netflix

    BEST CHARACTER DESIGN – FEATURE
    Scott Watanabe, Ami Thompson
    KPop Demon Hunters
    Sony Pictures Animation for Netflix

    BEST DIRECTION – TV/MEDIA
    Vincent Tsui
    Common Side Effects
    Episode: Cliff’s Edge
    Productions

    BEST DIRECTION – FEATURE
    Maggie Kang, Chris Appelhans
    KPop Demon Hunters
    Sony Pictures Animation for Netflix

    BEST MUSIC – TV/MEDIA
    Ramin Djawadi, Shane Eli, Johnny Pakfar
    Win Or Lose
    Episode: Episode 6, Mixed Signals
    Pixar Animation Studios

    BEST MUSIC – FEATURE
    KPop Demon Hunters Music Team
    KPop Demon Hunters
    Sony Pictures Animation for Netflix

    BEST PRODUCTION DESIGN – TV/MEDIA
    Gigi Cavenago
    Love, Death + Robots
    Episode: How Zeke Got Religion
    Blur Studio for Netflix

    BEST PRODUCTION DESIGN – FEATURE
    Helen Chen, Dave Bleich, Wendell Dalit, Scott Watanabe, Celine Kim
    KPop Demon Hunters
    Sony Pictures Animation for Netflix

    BEST STORYBOARDING – TV/MEDIA
    Edgar Martins
    Love, Death + Robots
    Episode: How Zeke Got Religion
    Blur Studio for Netflix

    BEST STORYBOARDING – FEATURE
    Anthony Holden, Young Ki Yoon
    The Bad Guys 2
    DreamWorks Animation

    BEST VOICE ACTING – TV/MEDIA
    Dan Mintz (as Tina Belcher)
    Bob’s Burgers
    Episode: Don’t Worry Be Hoopy
    20th Television Animation

    BEST VOICE ACTING – FEATURE
    Arden Cho (as Rumi)
    KPop Demon Hunters
    Sony Pictures Animation for Netflix

    BEST WRITING – TV/MEDIA
    Joe Bennett, Steve Hely
    Common Side Effects
    Episode: Pilot
    Green Street Pictures, Bandera Entertainment, and Williams Street Productions

    BEST WRITING – FEATURE
    Danya Jimenez, Hannah McMechan, Maggie Kang, Chris Appelhans
    KPop Demon Hunters
    Sony Pictures Animation for Netflix

    BEST EDITORIAL – TV/MEDIA
    Tony Christopherson, Joie Lim
    Common Side Effects
    Episode: Raid
    Green Street Pictures, Bandera Entertainment, and Williams Street Productions

    BEST EDITORIAL – FEATURE
    KPop Demon Hunters Editorial Team
    KPop Demon Hunters
    Sony Pictures Animation for Netflix

    WINSOR McCAY AWARD
    Michaël Dudok de Wit
    Christopher Miller
    Phil Lord
    Chris Sanders

    JUNE FORAY AWARD
    Sandy Rabins

    UB IWERKS AWARD
    Wacom

    SPECIAL ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
    LightBox Expo

    ASIFA-HOLLYWOOD MERIT AWARD
    Jeffrey New
    Haley Mirren Douthit

    Scott Roxborough

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  • ‘KPop Demon Hunters’ Cast on How They Slayed Their Own Demons

    Just when you thought every angle on KPop Demon Hunters had been covered—until the much-anticipated sequel drops, whenever that may be—a new perspective arrives. For the first time since the Netflix movie’s release last summer, across record-setting viewing and soundtrack numbers and awards nominations galore, the six performers behind Rumi, Mira, and Zoey did an interview all together.

    Variety gathered together EJAE (singing voice of Rumi, also one of the movie’s songwriters); Arden Cho (speaking voice of Rumi); Audrey Nuna (singing voice of Mira); May Hong (speaking voice of Mira); Rei Ami (singing voice of Zoey); and Ji-young Yoo (speaking voice of Zoey). Many shared their audition stories, which go back several years in some cases and include anecdotes like Cho originally going out for the supporting character of Celine rather than the main character of Rumi.

    But of particular interest are the cast’s insights into how the movie’s story—about pop-music superstars who secretly keep the world safe from demons—has parallels in their own careers. Several of the women mentioned they had to do some (metaphorical) demon-slaying along the way, and how gratifying it is to see the success of KPop Demon Hunters reflect that hard work.

    “We’ve been told we were too little, too much. Every step of my career,” Ami said. “All the demons I have to personally fight and be like, ‘You know what? You are the bitch. You are that girl. You are that shit.’ I had to tell myself every single fucking day, even when I didn’t believe it.”

    Cho agreed. “We grow up feeling that there’s this expectation of how we should be, and there’s a responsibility of how we should act. But this movie gets to show so many different types of personalities and characters and boldness and fearlessness, and these super-hot, badass women who are also goofy, silly, and cute … It just plays that you can be badass, beautiful, soft, and you can still be vulnerable. I love all of that, and I feel all of us in some realms have found some healing in it as the world has. I think that’s what keeps bringing people back to the movie, is that the story is incredibly healing and a connector for everyone.”

    EJAE felt especially connected to Rumi, as you might expect. “It was very interesting to see everyone come together and work on this incredible story. We had to fight a lot, and I think every single person can understand that part. But because of that struggle, and all the demons that we had to deal with, that’s what made the movie so beautiful and genuine. I think that struggle was needed,” she said.

    “I think all those demons were needed for this film, because through that, we were able to find depth in our writing and acting. It hit home. Looking at what Rumi is going through, I was able to relate to that. I think it was really about knowing that your demons will be there no matter what, and just knowing how to navigate, and not to hide that anymore.”

    Head to Variety to read the full interview with the KPop Demon Hunters cast.

    Want more io9 news? Check out when to expect the latest Marvel, Star Wars, and Star Trek releases, what’s next for the DC Universe on film and TV, and everything you need to know about the future of Doctor Who.

    Cheryl Eddy

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  • Get Your AI Off Our ‘Stranger Things’ & ‘KPop Demon Hunters,’ Netflix Tells ByteDance In Latest Hollywood Cease & Desist Letter

    Netflix “will not stand by and watch ByteDance treat our valued IP as free, public domain clip art,” the streamer told the TikTok owner tonight. In a short and stern cease and desist letter over Seedance 2.0, Netflix want generated AI videos of Stranger Things, KPop Demon Hunters, Squid Game and Bridgerton shut down now.

    With their two-page correspondence and potential legal action to follow, Netflix have linked arms and attorney arsenals with Warner Bros Discovery, Paramount (their rivals to buy WBD), and the still Bob Iger-run Disney to stop the user created content that has been bastardizing their top shows, films and other moneymakers. While Amazon, Apple, Sony and Comcast-owned Universal have yet to join the party, it is clear now with the Ted Sarandos and Greg Peters-led Netflix in the C&D house, this is serious stuff.

    How serious?

    Well, Netflix litigation chief Mindy LeMoine isn’t making as personal as WBD’s Wayne M. Smith did earlier Tuesday with his predecessor and now ByteDance Global General Counsel John Rogovin. Then again, LeMoine does cut to the chase with very specific citations:

    “Current forensic evidence indicates that Seedance is being used to generate unauthorized derivative works including, but not limited to:

    Bridgerton: Unauthorized depictions of Season 4 content, specifically featuring characters in a masquerade ball setting. These outputs mirror specific, narratively important costumes like Sophie Baek’s “Lady in Silver” gown. ByteDance has even promoted this content using #Bridgerton tags via its own official social media channels, such as @BytePlusGlobal.

    Stranger Things: High-fidelity reboots of the series finale, which feature detailed reproductions of the iconic cast as well as the monsters from the series, including Demogorgons and the Mindflayer.

    Squid Game: Seedance has generated recreations of the “Red Light, Green Light” sets and the iconic Young-hee doll. These include unauthorized crossovers, such as inserting real-world figures like Elon Musk into the Squid Game environment.

    KPop Demon Hunters: Seedance has reproduced the specific visual style and character designs from our animated musical feature, including the lead character Rumi.”

    ‘KPop Demon Hunters’

    Netflix

    The C&D letter goes on to state: “Netflix has never authorized ByteDance to use our content to generate these images or videos. ByteDance’s activities are willful, and constitute direct and secondary copyright infringement. The use of copyrighted works to create a competing commercial product, especially one that regurgitates the original, is not protected by fair use.”

    Unlike Disney, Paramount and WBD, Netflix are in full FAFO-mode here and give the Chinese tech company three days to set things straight. This comes one day after ByteDance swore they are “taking steps to strengthen current safeguards as we work to prevent the unauthorised use of intellectual property and likeness by users.” 

    Netflix isn’t buying it.

    “To avoid immediate litigation, Netflix demands that ByteDance:

    1. Cease Generative Output: Immediately implement technological guardrails to prevent Seedance from generating any content that resembles Netflix’s protected characters, titles, or settings.

    2. Remove Infringing Content: Remove all unlawfully obtained Netflix-owned content from training datasets, and also scrub all existing Seedance-generated videos featuring Netflix IP from all ByteDance-controlled platforms.

    3. Identify All Infringements: Provide an accounting of all instances where Seedance has generated content based on prompts related to Netflix’s IP.

    4. Revoke Third-Party Access: Revoke access for any commercial partners or API users currently utilizing Seedance to generate unauthorized Netflix derivative works.”

    So, as Netflix awaits ByteDance’s response later this week, will it be Amazon, Apple, Sony or Universal sending the next letter? Stay tuned.

    Dominic Patten

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  • ‘KPop Demon Hunters’, ‘Sinners’ & ‘Train Dreams’ Among Winners At SCL Awards: Full List

    KPop Demon Hunters and Sinners scored more music-based awards-season wins Friday at the seventh annual SCL Awards presented by the Society of Composers of Lyricists. The songwriters behind “Golden,” the Grammy-winning global smash hit from Netflix’s juggernaut toon, won Outstanding Original Song for a Comedy or Musical, while “I Lied to You” took the Drama […]

    Erik Pedersen

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  • Netflix’s 2025 Sensation Is Now Streamer’s Most Popular Movie Ever

    Netflix‘s biggest movie of 2025 just got even bigger, gaining the status of officially becoming the most popular movie on the entire platform.

    According to a new announcement from Netflix, 2025’s KPop Demon Hunters has not only become the platform’s most-watched animated film, but is now the most popular film on Netflix of all time. In a new report from The Hollywood Reporter, the staggering popularity of the movie is put into context.

    According to THR, the view total for KPop Demon Hunters from July-December 2025 beats the entire combined view count of the past three movies that was at the top of Netflix’s semiannual charts, including Back in Action (164.7 million views) for the first half of 2025, Carry-On (137.3 million) for the second half of 2024, and Damsel (143.8 million) for the first half of 2024.

    The total of those three films, 445.8 million views, would still come up about 35 million views short of what KPop Demon Hunters did in the back half of 2025 alone. THR’s report notes that, dating back to its premiere in June, the movie has been watched more than 540 million times, and has spent 31 weeks on Netflix’s top 10 movie charts.

    Alongside the popularity of the film on Netflix, KPop Demon Hunters has also been extremely popular in theaters. Last year, Netflix released a special sing-along version of the film in theaters, which also topped the North American weekend box office for its days.

    Originally released in 2025, KPop Demon Hunters was directed by Kang and Appelhans, and starred Arden Cho, Ahn Hyo-seop, May Hong, Ji-young Yoo, Yunjin Kim, Daniel Dae Kim, Ken Jeong, and Lee Byung-hun. The film followed the story of a K-pop girl group, Huntr/x, that double as demon hunters who use their music to face off against their foes.

    The film was a massive success upon its release. Since its release in June, KPop Demon Hunters has become the most-watched original title in Netflix history, and its soundtrack has also received Platinum certification from the RIAA. To date, the soundtrack continues to be massively successful, and is the first soundtrack with four simultaneous Top 10 songs on the Billboard Hot 100.

    The movie has also garnered tons of awards, with the film winning Best Motion Picture – Animated at the Golden Globes, and the song “Golden” also winning Best Original Song at the Golden Globes.

    Anthony Nash

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  • Sony and Netflix Will Keep Being Streaming Buddies

    The past few years have seen Netflix get Sony movies after their theatrical runs—and exclusive access to some of the studio’s movies, like Fixed and KPop Demon Hunters. Even with the latter film’s ongoing (and now award-winning) success, Sony’s going to be keeping chummy with the streamer through the remaining 2020s and beyond.

    The companies recently re-upped their partnership with a multi-year deal that’ll again put Sony movies on Netflix after they’ve ended their theatrical runs and left VOD. So when it’s time for, say, Spider-Man: Brand New Day, Beyond the Spider-Verse, or The Legend of Zelda to hit streaming, you’ll be able to find them on Netflix.

    Netflix also has licensing rights to “select SPE feature film and television library titles,” meaning we could potentially end up with another KPop situation where something really takes off and it’s locked to streaming forever, aside from any special-event screening engagements.

    According to Variety, this new deal doesn’t actually go into full effect until 2029, but Netflix and Sony got ahead on this before individual territory rights open up later in 2026. It might also be a pretty expensive deal: sources alleged to the outlet it’s above $7 billion in worth, over double the $2.5 billion deal they struck for domestic rights in 2021. Executives from both Sony and Netflix said the deal’s been a boon, with Sony’s executive VP Paul Littmann highlighting the attention films like Uncharted and Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse get when they hit the streaming service.

    Between its ongoing Sony deal and potentially owning Warner Bros., everything’s currently coming up Netflix. It may have hit studios and the licenses to media from studios it doesn’t own, but can it have any greatness of its own making?

    Want more io9 news? Check out when to expect the latest Marvel, Star Wars, and Star Trek releases, what’s next for the DC Universe on film and TV, and everything you need to know about the future of Doctor Who.

    Justin Carter

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  • Best Superhero Movies on Netflix (January 2026)

    There was a time when most blockbuster movies and popular television series found their way onto Netflix. Yet as the market for streaming grew, the amount of superhero movies on the service decreased. However, Netflix still hosts some of the best superhero movies ever made.

    What are the best Superhero movies on Netflix as of January 2026?

    Today, Netflix is more frequently associated with superhero streaming series than movies. They produced a number of mature series based on the world of Marvel Comics, like Daredevil. They also stream most of the Arrowverse shows based on DC Comics, thanks to a long-running licensing deal with The CW. Despite that, and most of these properties slowly making their way to Disney+ and HBO Max, there are still some fine superhero movies to be found on Netflix.

    Hellboy (2004)

    In 1944, a group of Nazi sorcerers led by the infamous Rasputin tried to summon several demons into their service. Thanks to the efforts of an Allied strike force and scholar Trevor “Broom” Bruttenholm, they failed. However, an infant demon was discovered in the aftermath. Broom adopted this Hellboy as his own son, and trained him to become a force for good.

    Six decades later, Broom and Hellboy are employed by the Bureau of Paranormal Research and Defense. With their aid, the BPRD have become humanity’s first line of defense against various monsters and magicians. Unfortunately, Rasputin’s allies have resurrected him, and they are determined to finish what they have started.

    There have been four films to date based upon Dark Horse Comics‘ superhero Hellboy and two cinematic reboots. Despite this, many feel that the first effort remains the best. This is largely due to the efforts of Oscar-winning filmmaker Guillermo del Toro, who scripted and directed the film. It is also thanks to Ron Perlman‘s masterful performance as the noble demon. It is also notable as the only Hellboy film adaptation to date to merit a sequel.

    The Amazing Spider-Man (2012)

    Peter Parker is a brilliant but socially awkward teenager with dreams of becoming a scientist. This leads him to seek out a former colleague of his father, Dr. Curt Connors, who is studying cross-species genetics. A lab accident leads to Peter being bitten by a genetically-altered spider and becoming something new… The Amazing Spider-Man.

    When Connors is similarly transformed into a monstrous lizard man, Spider-Man must step up to save the city. This is made more difficult thanks to the efforts of NYPD Captain George Stacy, who thinks Spider-Man is more menace than superhero. This, in turn, endangers Peter’s romance with classmate Gwen Stacy, who just happens to be Captain Stacy’s daughter.

    Marc Webb faced a serious challenge following after Sam Raimi in developing a new Spider-Man film franchise. It is debatable how well he succeeded. However, The Amazing Spider-Man does have a devout fandom for several reasons.

    Many fans prefer Andrew Garfield‘s more wise-cracking take on Peter Parker than the more brooding variant played by Tobey Maguire. Another selling point for the movie is Emma Stone as Gwen Stacy and her chemistry with Andrew Garfield. Such is her popularity that many hope she may still find her way into the MCU as Spider-Gwen.

    Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse (2018)

    Miles Morales was a smart student, struggling to fit in and live up to the standards of his NYPD officer father. Chance leads to his being bitten by a radioactive spider and gaining powers similar to those of the city’s greatest hero, Spider-Man. It also leads to Miles being entrusted with the only way to stop New York’s worst crime-boss from traveling between dimensions and wrecking reality after Spider-Man dies.

    In over his head and untrained in his new powers, Miles doesn’t think it is in him to be a hero. Fate intervenes again, giving him an unlikely teacher in the form of another Peter Parker from another world. Unfortunately, this Spider-Man is not the superhero he once was. However, with more and more Spiders showing up, Peter will have to remember what comes with great power. And Miles will learn that anyone can wear the mask.

    Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse was a revelation upon its release. Beyond being a blockbuster success, it was a critical smash. Even those critics who normally turn up their noses at superhero movies praised the film for its innovative concept and revolutionary animation. It ultimately earned 52 industry awards, including the Oscar, Golden Globe, and BAFTA for Best Animated Feature Film.

    Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem (2023)

    There have been many incarnations of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Despite this, their story did not differ much from film to film, or cartoon to cartoon. That changed with the 2023 animated superhero movie Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem.

    The film opens with the standard origin of four baby turtles and a rat being mutated into humanoid creatures by mutagenic ooze. However, this group of turtle boys hide themselves from the world because of their foster father Splinter’s fear of humanity. Not because of some need to maintain a superhero secret identity. Despite this, his sons long to be a part of the world above their home in the sewer.

    The existence of the Ninja Turtles is uncovered by aspiring teen journalist April O’Neil, after they recover her stolen moped. This leads to a partnership, as the TMNT help April investigate a series of crimes tied to the sinister TCRI. It also leads to the discovery of another found family of mutants, pressured into a life of crime by their charismatic leader, Superfly.

    Mutant Mayhem was notable for being one of the few times the Ninja Turtles actually seemed to act like real teenagers. It was also marked by a unique visual aesthetic, and for how well it merged ideas taken from a wide scope of earlier adaptations. The end result was a reboot that won over a new generation of fans while satisfying the old guard.

    KPop Demon Hunters (2025)

    Long ago, demons preyed on humanity. Hither came three young women, warrior poets who mixed song and sorcery to fight the demons. They created the Honmoon; a mystic barrier that limited the power of demons on Earth. Through the centuries that followed, three women in a generation would be chosen as the new guardians of the Honmoon. Today, those guardians are Huntrix – a K-pop idol group consisting of rebellious Mira, innocent Zoey, and confident Rumi.

    Huntrix are challenged in popularity by a demon-backed idol group called the Saja Boys. This leads to a battle of the bands for the souls of the world. However, Rumi has a secret; a half-demon heritage that threatens to break up the band and her friendships with Zoey and Mira.

    Some may question the inclusion of KPop Demon Hunters on a list of superhero movies. Certainly it is more heavily influenced by Korean culture and mythology than traditional comic book heroics. Yet at its core, the movie is a magical girl story, with summoned weapons, colorful costumes, and secret identities. That makes it a superhero movie by most metrics, in terms of story if nothing else.

    How we picked the best Superhero Movies on Netflix in 2026

    As noted earlier, there is little in the way of superhero movies on Netflix in 2026. However, there were still enough titles to make narrowing the list down to a top-five difficult. To that end, these movies were assessed based upon their influence, awards won, and success in establishing an on-going franchise.

    Matt Morrison

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  • ‘Adolescence’ Star Owen Cooper on Getting Pic with Leonardo DiCaprio! (Exclusive)

    extratv.com

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  • Official ‘KPop Demon Hunters’ Monopoly Deal Game Hits Stores As First Release From Netflix and Hasbro Deal

    If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Variety may receive an affiliate commission.

    Netflix has unveiled its first “KPop Demon Hunters” collaboration with toy maker Hasbro, with the release of an official Monopoly Deal card game based on the hit animated film.

    The Monopoly Deal: Kpop Demon Hunters Card Game dropped this month on Amazon as the first official release from Netflix’s licensing deal with Hasbro. First announced last fall, the partnership will feature the “KPop Demon Hunters” characters used across Hasbro’s line of board games, plush toys and electronics, including popular IP like Nerf and Furby. Hasbro has teased a “range of engaging collaborations designed to delight fans of all ages.”

    NEW RELEASE

    Monopoly Deal: Kpop Demon Hunters Card Game

    The officially-licensed Monopoly Deal game combines characters and themes from the Netflix film with the same goal of collecting a full set of cards. Only in this case, players race to collect items that Rumi, Mira and Zoey need to make the concert a success and seal the Honmoon.

    The all-ages game was released Jan. 1 and became an instant bestseller online, with Amazon reporting more than 8,000 units of the card game sold in its first week alone.

    In addition to Hasbro, Netflix is also developing a toy partnership with Mattel, with the brands teaming up to launch a full range of “KPop Demon Hunters”–themed dolls, action figures, accessories and playsets. The first release in the Netflix and Mattel partnership is a three-pack of HUNTR/X dolls set to drop later this year.

    Can’t wait for the official Mattel launch? Amazon currently has this three-pack of “KPop Demon Hunters”-inspired dolls available online. Each doll is fully posable and measures approximately 11.5 inches in height.

    ALSO AVAILABLE

    KPop Demon Hunter-Style Dolls (3-Pack)

    Netflix calls the Mattel and Hasbro licensing deals a way to “help meet the massive fan demand to have these favorite characters as part of their everyday lives, and marks another major milestone for Netflix’s smash global hit.”

    The full release slate is expected to include toys, dolls, games, role-play products and other collectibles.

    “KPop Demon Hunters unleashed a global fan frenzy,” says Marian Lee, Chief Marketing Officer for Netflix, in a press release. “HUNTR/X showed us that a truly great trio is more than the sum of its parts. Netflix, Mattel and Hasbro joining forces on this first-of-its-kind collaboration means fans can finally get their hands on the best dolls, games, and merchandise they’ve been not-so-subtly demanding on every social platform known to humanity. As Rumi, Mira and Zoey say — for the fans!”

    [ad_2] Tim Chan
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  • My daughters, KPop Demon Hunters, and radical acceptance

    By Anchel Krishna

    Like the parents of most eight-year-olds, our movie nights have been dominated by KPop Demon Hunters. I was expecting the film to be just another kids’ movie. Instead, it was a movie that got my daughter Nal and I thinking about identity, belonging and the beauty in embracing your full self. Also, I didn’t expect to find myself singing along to the movie’s songs at full volume while driving alone (if you pull up beside me at a red light, please don’t judge me!).

    KPop Demon Hunters is an animated film about a girl group who are global music stars and secret demon hunters. It follows Rumi, the group’s leader, who hides that she is half demon from her two closest friends and the public, while trying to maintain a perfect image. When her secret begins to surface, she must choose between continuing to live a lie or fully accepting who she is. The film explores identity, friendship and the idea that our differences can be sources of strength rather than weaknesses.

    That message hit close to home as a parent who spends so much time navigating two worlds. There is the world where the messy, jagged edges of disability shape our experience. And it’s hard. Sometimes it feels easier to only show the smooth edges of our life to people who don’t live in the disability world, to only reveal the parts that they can easily understand.

    When I was watching the movie and feeling all of my feels, I looked over at Nal. She was as engrossed as I was, and I wondered if this had her thinking along the same lines. She navigates a complex world as a sibling of a sister with a disability. She has many close friends who truly accept and embrace her sister Syona, alongside Nal. But Nal has often expressed how she feels alone in her experience, too, saying: “I have a sister, like other kids, but my sister is not like other sisters.” It’s a simple way to explain her life, but poignantly accurate. 

    Everything shifts near the end of the film when Rumi can’t keep hiding part of herself. And that is where my favourite song comes in. What It Sounds Like manages to be a banger with lyrics that made me feel seen:  

    Nothing but the truth now 
    Nothing but the proof of what I am… 

    We broke into a million pieces, and we can’t go back 
    But now I’m seeing all the beauty in the broken glass 
    The scars are part of me, darkness and harmony 
    My voice without the lies, this is what it sounds like… 

    This life we’ve built raising one daughter with disabilities and one without has to be based on truth. The proof of our challenges is very visible and real, and yet in it we have found strength and purpose.  

    The song ends with this: 

    Fearless and undefined, this is what it sounds like 
    Truth after all this time, our voices all combined 
    When darkness meets the light, this is what it sounds like 

    This life that we’ve built has space for Nal to acknowledge and voice her experience as a sibling in a safe and supportive space. Together we share our experiences, and that brings them to the surface for all of us. We all experience post-traumatic growth together, finding meaning and strength through our challenges. 

    At the end of the movie we danced, I cried, and we talked about the lessons we were taking away: about radical acceptance of exactly who you are in that moment, and leaning on those who love you most.  

    We also talked about how much we wished the film had included more explicit representation of characters with disabilities. While many people online have suggested that Zoey, one of the members of the trio, may be autistic or have ADHD, it would have been so powerful to see that woven into the story in an intentional and authentic way. 

    My daughter Syona doesn’t watch TV or movies because of her visual processing disorder, which makes representation even more complicated in our house. But visible inclusion for kids who move through the world with different needs, strengths and disabilities matters deeply. Showing how they add value exactly as they are helps everyone understand that people with disabilities are not on the margins or an afterthought. They are woven into our day-to-day experiences and pop-culture references. Syona deserves to see characters like herself in mainstream stories like this, and Nal deserves to see characters like her sister. There is space for everyone in these stories. 

    That longing for representation is really about connection. This film reminded me that healing and growth happen when we stop hiding parts of ourselves and let others in. It is not always comfortable, but it is how we raise kids who understand that every person carries their own “darkness and harmony,” and that all of those patterns belong. 

    For anyone parenting a child with a disability, or those learning to accept parts of themselves they have kept tucked away, I hope you remember this: You do not need to seal anything off to belong. You deserve to show your full self. Those who see your value will be the ones you want surrounding you. When you reveal who you truly are, your voice might become stronger. It might even sound exactly the way it was always meant to. 
     

     

    Like this content? Sign up for our monthly BLOOM e-letter, follow BLOOM editor @LouiseKinross on X, or watch our A Family Like Mine video series. 

     

    lkinross

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  • ‘KPop Demon Hunters’ Finally Has an Art Book It Deserves

    You’ve asked for months, and now Netflix is giving it to you: an art book for KPop Demon Hunters is here!…and also coming soon.

    On Friday, the streamer released a 142-page digital book containing the film’s artwork, segmented in different chapters covering the movie from start to finish. (The website also plays tunes from the movie, including “Golden” and “What It Sounds Like.”) Some of the pieces featured may look familiar—artists Ami Thompson and Celine Dahyeu Kim have posted several of their contributions since the film came out—and others are brand new, with pages containing insight from staff like visual development artist Won Sul Hyun and character designer Euni Cho.

    With its digital art book, KPop Demon Hunters follows suit from Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio movie, which also got one as part of the film’s awards run. We know Netflix would like for KPop take home an Oscar or two, and supplemental material like this helps get the attention of Oscar voters. (Not that it really needs it, since the singers for Huntr/x just performed at Macy’s parade during Thanksgiving.) The book’s also the latest extension of the film’s ongoing presence, eventually followed by Mattel dolls and a Secret Lair drop in Magic: The Gathering. And of course, the sequel hitting Netflix in 2029…hopefully.

    You can go here for the KPop Demon Hunters art book, with a physical version coming sometime in 2026.

    Want more io9 news? Check out when to expect the latest Marvel, Star Wars, and Star Trek releases, what’s next for the DC Universe on film and TV, and everything you need to know about the future of Doctor Who.

    Justin Carter

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  • Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade to kick off in Manhattan

    Dozens of balloons and floats filled the streets of Manhattan’s Upper West Side. Many of the familiar balloon favorites like Marshall, the Dalmatian from Paw Patrol, and Dora the Explorer are joined by new friends this year like Buzz Lightyear, Pac-Man, and Mario. Creative new floats were on display along Central Park, giant Lebubus, and *** demogorgon from the. Down delighted the crowds. The parade is just such *** great part of New York and it’s such *** great part of history. It’s the greatest show on Earth, and we’re just so lucky to be part of it. April Rubens Stone raced to the front of the viewing line, eager to keep the decades-long tradition going. It doesn’t matter what age you are, it’s for everybody. For others, seeing the parade is *** once in *** lifetime opportunity. They couldn’t wait to. Growing up seeing this on television, I had always wished to come and see one live, so this is definitely on my bucket list and pressing it out. I’ve wanted to do it for 25 years to come and watch them blow up the floats, and we finally said let’s do it. While everyone has something unique they’re eager to see in the parade, one common thread connects them all. I’m thankful for. Uh, my family and my 90 year old mother. Thankful for our family and for everyone’s health. This is our first Thanksgiving as *** family of four, so he’s got *** little brother. Are you thankful for your little brother? In New York, I’m Lee Waldman.

    Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade to kick off in Manhattan

    Updated: 7:10 AM EST Nov 27, 2025

    Editorial Standards

    The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade kicks off Thursday in New York City, with new balloons depicting Buzz Lightyear and Pac-Man set to take to the skies and floats featuring Labubu and Lego gracing the streets.The parade is scheduled to start at 8:30 a.m. EST, rain or shine, on Manhattan’s Upper West Side and will end at Macy’s Herald Square flagship store on 34th Street.It’s expected to be a chilly day in the city, with temperatures in the 40s, but wind gusts between 25 mph and 30 mph will make it feel colder, according to David Stark, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in New York.Officials are watching the forecast closely, since city law prohibits Macy’s from flying full-size balloons if sustained winds exceed 23 mph or wind gusts are over 35 mph. Weather has grounded the balloons only once, in 1971, but they also sometimes have soared lower than usual because of wind.Authorities will decide Thursday morning whether any balloon adjustments are needed, Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said. The parade has been a magnet for protests in the last two years, when pro-Palestinian protesters entered the parade route. Police “are prepared to address that and any other situations that come our way,” Tisch said.A star-studded lineup of performances will be sprinkled throughout the show, along with a slew of marching bands, dancers and cheerleaders. Performers include “Wicked” star Cynthia Erivo, Conan Gray, Lainey Wilson, Foreigner, Lil Jon, and Audrey Nuna, EJAE and Rei Ami of HUNTR/X, the fictional girl group at the heart of this year’s Netflix hit “KPop Demon Hunters.” The Radio City Rockettes also will be there, as will cast members from Broadway’s “Buena Vista Social Club,” “Just in Time” and “Ragtime.”All told, the parade is expected to feature dozens of balloons, floats, clown groups and marching bands — all leading the way for Santa Claus. Among the new balloons being featured is a large onion carriage featuring eight characters from the world of “Shrek.” “KPop Demon Hunters” will also be represented in the sky with the characters Derpy Tiger and Sussie.The event will air on NBC, hosted by Savannah Guthrie and Al Roker from “Today” and their former colleague Hoda Kotb. On Telemundo, the hosts will be Andrea Meza, Aleyda Ortiz and Clovis Nienow.The parade is also being simulcast on NBC’s Peacock streaming service.

    The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade kicks off Thursday in New York City, with new balloons depicting Buzz Lightyear and Pac-Man set to take to the skies and floats featuring Labubu and Lego gracing the streets.

    The parade is scheduled to start at 8:30 a.m. EST, rain or shine, on Manhattan’s Upper West Side and will end at Macy’s Herald Square flagship store on 34th Street.

    It’s expected to be a chilly day in the city, with temperatures in the 40s, but wind gusts between 25 mph and 30 mph will make it feel colder, according to David Stark, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in New York.

    Officials are watching the forecast closely, since city law prohibits Macy’s from flying full-size balloons if sustained winds exceed 23 mph or wind gusts are over 35 mph. Weather has grounded the balloons only once, in 1971, but they also sometimes have soared lower than usual because of wind.

    Authorities will decide Thursday morning whether any balloon adjustments are needed, Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said.

    The parade has been a magnet for protests in the last two years, when pro-Palestinian protesters entered the parade route. Police “are prepared to address that and any other situations that come our way,” Tisch said.

    A star-studded lineup of performances will be sprinkled throughout the show, along with a slew of marching bands, dancers and cheerleaders. Performers include “Wicked” star Cynthia Erivo, Conan Gray, Lainey Wilson, Foreigner, Lil Jon, and Audrey Nuna, EJAE and Rei Ami of HUNTR/X, the fictional girl group at the heart of this year’s Netflix hit “KPop Demon Hunters.” The Radio City Rockettes also will be there, as will cast members from Broadway’s “Buena Vista Social Club,” “Just in Time” and “Ragtime.”

    All told, the parade is expected to feature dozens of balloons, floats, clown groups and marching bands — all leading the way for Santa Claus. Among the new balloons being featured is a large onion carriage featuring eight characters from the world of “Shrek.” “KPop Demon Hunters” will also be represented in the sky with the characters Derpy Tiger and Sussie.

    The event will air on NBC, hosted by Savannah Guthrie and Al Roker from “Today” and their former colleague Hoda Kotb. On Telemundo, the hosts will be Andrea Meza, Aleyda Ortiz and Clovis Nienow.

    The parade is also being simulcast on NBC’s Peacock streaming service.

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  • ‘Sinners’ Swings With Three Wins At Hollywood Music In Media Awards; “Golden” Night For ‘KPop Demon Hunters’ – Full List

    Ryan Coogler’s Sinners was the big winner at the 16th annual Hollywood Music in Media Awards on Wednesday night, picking up three statuettes including Best Score and Song for a feature film and Best On-Screen Performance. The latter two wins were for “I Lied to You,” which was written by Raphael Saadiq and Ludwig Göransson and performed by Miles Caton. Göransson also picked up the Score trophy.

    The documentary Diane Warren: Relentless and Fabrizio Mancinelli for indie feature Out of the Nest were the other multiple winners, snagging two statuettes each during the ceremony at the Avalon in Hollywood. There also were double wins from the Wicked world: Director Jon M. Chu took the inaugural HMMA for Music-Themed Film, Biopic or Musical for Wicked: For Good — which will storm theaters around the world on Friday — and the TV special Wicked: One Wonderful Night won for Music Performance / Special Program.

    The juggernaut film KPop Demon Hunters tracked down a Best Song – Animated Film trophy for the No. 1 pop single “Golden,” and the title tune from Spike Lee’s Highest 2 Lowest picked up the Best Song – Independent Film prize. Diane Warren won Best Song – Documentary for “Dear Me.”

    Lady Gaga and Andrew Watt also were among the HMMA winners, taking Best Song – TV Show/Limited Series for the Gaga-sung “The Dead Dance” from Tim Burton’s Wednesday.

    Here are all the winners at the 2025 Hollywood Music in Media Awards:

    SONG – FEATURE FILM
    “I Lied To You” from Sinners. Written by Raphael Saadiq and Ludwig Göransson. Performed by Miles Caton

    SONG – INDEPENDENT FILM
    “Highest 2 Lowest” from Highest 2 Lowest. Written By Aiyana-Lee Anderson and Nicole Daciana Anderson. Performed by Aiyana-Lee

    SONG – DOCUMENTARY FILM
    “Dear Me” from Diane Warren: Relentless. Written by Diane Warren. Performed by Kesha and Diane Warren

    SONG – ANIMATED FILM
    “Golden” from Kpop Demon Hunters. Written by EJAE, Mark Sonnenblick, Joong Gyu Kwak, Yu Han Lee, Hee Dong Nam, Jeong Hoon Seo, Park Hong Jun. Performed by EJAE, Audrey Nuna, and Rei Ami

    SONG – ON-SCREEN PERFORMANCE (FILM)
    Miles Caton – “I Lied to You” from Sinners

    SCORE – ANIMATED FILM
    Tom Howe – Dog Man

    SCORE – FEATURE FILM
    Ludwig Göransson – Sinners

    SCORE – SCI-FI/FANTASY FILM
    Simon Franglen – Avatar: Fire and Ash

    SCORE – TV SHOW/LIMITED SERIES
    Theodore Shapiro – Severance

    SCORE – INDEPENDENT FILM
    Jeff Beal – Rule Breakers

    SCORE – INDEPENDENT FILM (FOREIGN LANGUAGE)
    Fabrizio Mancinelli – Out of the Nest

    SCORE – HORROR/THRILLER FILM
    Benjamin Wallfisch – Wolf Man

    SCORE – DOCUMENTARY
    Anne Nikitin – Pangolin – Kulu’s Journey

    MUSIC-THEMED FILM, BIOPIC OR MUSICAL
    Wicked: For Good – Jon M. Chu (director)

    MUSIC DOCUMENTARY – SPECIAL PROGRAM
    Diane Warren: Relentless – Bess Kargman (director)

    SONG – TV SHOW/LIMITED SERIES
    “The Dance” from Wednesday. Written by Lady Gaga and Andrew Watt. Performed by Lady Gaga

    SONG – ON-SCREEN PERFORMANCE – TV SHOW/LIMITED SERIES
    Kevin Bacon and Jennifer Nettles – “Our Highway” (The Bondsman S1) Written by Kevin Bacon and Jennifer Nettles

    MAIN TITLE – TV SHOW/LIMITED SERIES
    Your Friends & Neighbors – Dominic Lewis and Hamilton Leithauser

    SCORE – SHORT FILM (LIVE ACTION)
    Carl Thiel – El Lazo De Petra

    SCORE – SHORT FILM (ANIMATED)
    Qing Madi – Valorant

    SCORE – SHORT FILM (DOCUMENTARY)
    Benjamin Westphalen – A Dream Called Khushi (Happiness)

    SCORE – INDEPENDENT FILM (FOREIGN LANGUAGE)
    Fabrizio Mancinelli – Out of the Nest

    SCORE – DOCUMENTARY SERIES -TV/DIGITAL
    Duncan Thum and David Bertok – Chef’s Table: Legends

    SCORE – TV SHOW/LIMITED SERIES (FOREIGN LANGUAGE)
    Arturo Cardelús – Terra Alta

    SCORE – VIDEO GAME (CONSOLE & PC)
    League Of Legends: Welcome to Noxus – League of Legends (Bill Hemstapat, Sebastien Najand, Alex Seaver, J.D. Spears, Alexander Temple, Richard Thomson, Seth Tsui, Gong Ao, Merlin Cen)

    SONG – VIDEO GAME (CONSOLE & PC)
    “Against the Tide” from Wuthering Waves. Written by Obadiah Brown-Beach. Performed by Forts and Obadiah Brown-Beach.

    SONG/SCORE – MOBILE VIDEO GAME
    AFK Journey – Alec Justice

    MUSIC SUPERVISION – TV SHOW/LIMITED SERIES
    Sean Fernald – Dexter: Resurrection

    MUSIC SUPERVISION – FILM
    Nick Angel – Bridget Jones: Mad About The Boy

    MUSIC SUPERVISION – VIDEO GAME
    Steve Schnur – Battlefield 6

    SONG/SCORE – COMMERCIAL ADVERTISEMENT
    Apple: 6 Out Of 5 Stars – Silo: Music – Neil Ormandy, Linkoln, and Allen Stone

    SOUNDTRACK ALBUM
    F1 – Atlantic Records

    SONG – SHORT FILM
    “Stars In My Eyes” from Sweetwater. Written by Sean Douglas. Performed by Kyra Sedgwick

    SCORE – TV/STREAMED MOVIE
    Bridget Jones: Mad About The Boy – Dustin O’Halloran

    MUSIC DESIGN – TRAILER
    Necaxa (FX – Hulu) – Juan Carlos Enriquez

    MAIN TITLE – TV SHOW (FOREIGN LANGUAGE)
    On the High Seas – Sandrine Rudaz

    MUSIC VIDEO (INDEPENDENT)
    Evanescence – “Afterlife”

    LIVE CONCERT FOR VISUAL MEDIA
    The Lion King at the Hollywood Bowl – The Lion King Cast

    EXHIBITIONS, THEME PARKS, SPECIAL PROJECTS
    “Opening” Walt Disney World’s Epcot: Test Track – Zain Effendi

    SONG/SCORE – NEW MEDIA
    La Pandora’s Box Written by Victoria Dawson, Nadeem Majdalany, Camille J. Thomas, Carmen A. Thomas, Shannon K., Luke Shrestha, Simon Jay. Performed by memyself&vi

    MUSIC PERFORMANCE / SPECIAL PROGRAM
    Wicked: One Wonderful Night

    SONG – DOCUMENTARY SERIES – TV/LIMITED SERIES
    “Go Steady” from Parenthood. Written by Tom Howe and Sam Ryder

    Erik Pedersen

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  • You Cannot Escape KPop Demon Hunters, Even at Elijah Wood’s DJ Set

    Photo: Michael Tullberg/Getty Images

    It’s a KPop Demon Hunters world, and we’re just living in it. After a Halloween filled with Rumis and Saja Boys and scoring a Grammy nomination, there was one final arena left for the Huntr/x gals to conquer: an Elijah Wood DJ set, with his DJ duo, Wooden Wisdom. During a performance in Anchorage, Alaska, Wood dropped “Golden” to an excited crowd on November 6. “This is a song we learned about from Elijah’s three-year-old daughter,” Zach Cowie, the other half of Wooden Wisdom, teased before the song. “It’s true, but you’ll all know it!” Wood joked, as any parent can tell you, the children yearn for “Golden.” And by the crowds, and Wood’s reaction, the grown-ups do too.

    Now, if you’re thinking, “Wait, when did Frodo become a DJ?” you are not alone. Wood and Cowie have been DJing together since before 2015, when they met at a party, went “song for song,” and realized how well they vibe. They eventually grew to only using vinyl for their performances, and thankfully, the KPop Demon Hunters vinyl soundtrack was just recently released, making it a perfect addition to one of Wood’s many side quests.

    Alejandra Gularte

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  • The First ‘KPop Demon Hunters’ Dolls Are Here—But There’s a Huge Catch

    The KPop Demon Hunters dolls from Mattel have been revealed in detail. But don’t get too excited: they won’t arrive until next fall, and there’s another pricey catch attached.

    Pre-orders for Mattel Creations’ KPop Demon Hunters dolls begin November 12. If you snag a pre-order with holiday gift-giving in mind, you’ll have to print out an IOU and stick it in a Christmas stocking, because the dolls are estimated to arrive “by October 2026,” according to Mattel.

    At least they will be out before the recently announced sequel, but whoa, that’s still a long time to wait.

    Did we mention that, at least for this initial Mattel run, the dolls will only come as a package deal? You can’t just buy one Huntr/x member; you have to get the full set of Rumi, Mira, and Zoey—and the “What It Sounds Like” three-pack will set you back $150.

    © Mattel Creations

    The details on Zoey, Rumi, and Mira are gorgeous. Their “What It Sounds Like” outfits look just like in the film, and it’s so cool to see Rumi’s demon marks prominently displayed across her design. But we have to admit, they look too fancy to play with, and that’s common with the Mattel Creations drops, which explains the sticker price.

    If you’re apprehensive about committing to all three, there will be more toy drops, including more accessible options, also coming in 2026.  And we’re hoping, of course, for Huntr/x dolls in the “How It’s Done” outfits and ones that sing “Golden” too.

    With the sequel officially in the works, fingers crossed that Netflix and toy makers are ready to seal the Honmoon with an avalanche of KPop Demon Hunters merch before it’s released. Take a look at the “What It Sounds Like” dolls from the Mattel Creations set below!

    KPop Demon Hunters is now streaming on Netflix.

    Want more io9 news? Check out when to expect the latest Marvel, Star Wars, and Star Trek releases, what’s next for the DC Universe on film and TV, and everything you need to know about the future of Doctor Who.

    Sabina Graves

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  • ‘KPop Demon Hunters 2’ Is a Go, But It’s Going to Be a While

    The news we all knew was coming is finally here. Sony and Netflix have struck a deal to make the animated sequel to KPop Demon Hunters. That’s the good news. The bad news is, it probably won’t be here until 2029.

    Bloomberg first reported news of the deal and release date. The reason is that animated films take time, especially highly anticipated ones like this. So everyone involved just wants to make sure they get it right.

    KPop Demon Hunters debuted in June and, very quickly, became an unexpected sensation. It jumped to the top of Netflix’s Top 10 most-watched films for several weeks and, eventually, became its most-watched original film ever. Several of the songs from the soundtrack became massive radio hits and, quickly, talk of not just a sequel, but a whole franchise began.

    But that wasn’t as easy this time around. Sony Pictures Animation produced the film, but sold it to Netflix for distribution. So all the details of its rights were a bit more complex. That all became more pressing when the film, seemingly out of nowhere, became the #1 movie in America at the box office weeks after release.

    This is a developing story…

    Want more io9 news? Check out when to expect the latest Marvel, Star Wars, and Star Trek releases, what’s next for the DC Universe on film and TV, and everything you need to know about the future of Doctor Who.

    Germain Lussier

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  • Expect ‘KPop Demon Hunters’ in ‘Magic: The Gathering’ Next Year

    A few days ago, we learned KPop Demon Hunters would finally get some merchandise thanks to Hasbro and Mattel. If you’re a fan of Magic: The Gathering, good news for you: Huntr/x is coming to a set near you in 2026.

    During its recent third quarter investor call, Hasbro CEO Chris Cocks said the Netflix film would come to its famous card game via the Secret Lair line. In talking it up, he expects it to do pretty well, saying “if we can figure out how to get people jazzed up about SpongeBob SquarePants collectible cards, I’m pretty sure we can do it with one of the biggest movies of all time.”

    That KPop is getting a Lair drop is an easier ask compared to a full-blown deck similar to Spider-Man or Final Fantasy. The latter’s been a pretty big seller for Hasbro, and during the call, Cocks called the Secret Lair release for Spongebob one of its best ever. Given the movie’s been so big that Netflix is bringing it back to theaters a second (technically third) time and getting Hasbro to share the toy lin with Mattel, it’s easy to imagine the Secret Lair drop hitting big with newcomers and Magic fans—especially since by that point, the film will probably have been nominated for (or won) an Oscar or two.

    We’ll have more on the Secret Lair drop for KPop Demon Hunters, including card artwork, as news emerges.

    [via ICv2]

    Want more io9 news? Check out when to expect the latest Marvel, Star Wars, and Star Trek releases, what’s next for the DC Universe on film and TV, and everything you need to know about the future of Doctor Who.

    Justin Carter

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  • The Singing Voice of Rumi Just Gave Us the Closest We’re Gonna Get to New ‘KPop Demon Hunters’ Music

    Huntr/x fans rejoice: the voice of Rumi, EJAE, has released music to tide us over until we get any news about a KPop Demon Hunters sequel.

    Marking her official solo act debut, EJAE has released “In Another World,” which gives fans of the singer’s emotional vocals on “Golden” another banger to belt. The deeply resonant and powerful ballad is a gorgeous rumination on love and loss, and I can already imagine it backing up fan edits of Rujinu (Jinu and Rumi’s ship name). The song just dropped so I imagine the internet will hop on the pop bop as part of their campaign to bring Jinu back—nothing wrong with redeeming a bad boy (ahem, Ben Solo), after all.

    In a recent interview with Ryan Seacrest, EJAE talked about the making of her debut single. “I wrote ‘In Another World’ during a time when I was questioning every choice I’d made. It’s about those quiet moments when you imagine the life you didn’t live—and realizing it’s okay to miss something and that in another world maybe it would be perfect.”

    It’s such a powerful debut, illustrating through music how even under the bright lights of KPop Demon Hunters, life can contain multitudes, inspiring more amazing work from the singer-songwriter. EJAE explained how the newfound success has given her the opportunity to step back on the mic: “I’ve always dreamed of sharing my songs with the world, but I never imagined I’d be the one singing them.”

    She continued, “This song—and this moment—feel like I’m finally letting people see who I really am. It’s both terrifying and thrilling, but mostly I’m just so excited to be able to share something that’s authentically me.” And we’re so happy she’s stepping into her power to seal the Honmoon in real life, since EJAE will also be joining her KPop Demon Hunters vocal co-stars, Audrey Nuna and Rei Ami, at iHeartMedia’s Jingle Ball to perform Huntr/x songs this winter.

    Check out the music video for “In Another World,” directed by Bryant Hyun, below!

    Want more io9 news? Check out when to expect the latest Marvel, Star Wars, and Star Trek releases, what’s next for the DC Universe on film and TV, and everything you need to know about the future of Doctor Who.

    Sabina Graves

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  • Why ‘KPop Demon Hunters’ Toys Won’t Be on Shelves for the Holidays

    When I was 8 years-old, my brother (10 at the time) and I really wanted Pro Wrestling for the NES (Nintendo Entertainment System). Pro Wrestling had a monster character called “The Amazon” who bit his opponents’ heads — that’s pretty much all it took back then for a game to be a hit. But for Christmas 1989, we got WWF WrestleMania, a terrible game with real WWF (now WWE) wrestlers. The worst part? No one bit anyone’s head in the officially licensed game. This Christmas, 8 year-olds may be disappointed for another reason.

    Netflix’s (by way of Sony) most-watched-ever movie KPop Demon Hunters is (still) all the rage. If you don’t know KPop Demon Hunters yet, you will in a week when roughly 10,000 Rumis come trick-or-treating. Quality on the HUNTR/X costumes will vary, as the only options are homemade, sort of rush-delivered officially licensed Spirit Halloween costumes, or a generic knockoff.

    Parents will have only have that final option come Christmas 2025 shopping.

    Earlier this week, Netflix signed deals with toymakers Mattel and Hasbro to manufacture KPop Demon Hunters consumer products. Mattel will make the dolls, action figures, accessories, collectibles and play sets; Hasbro will make the stuffys, electronics and board games. The problem is, none of this stuff will be available for this holiday season, which is precisely when they would be in peak demand.

    Don’t blame the builders. Well, not too much.

    A Netflix spokesperson told The Hollywood Reporter that when the streamer approached its licensing partners and retailers in 2024, it received only “soft” interest. That’s not shocking: KPop Demon Hunters was wholly new, unproven IP. One year and 325 million views later, everyone is sprinting at full speed to catch up to demand.

    They won’t make it for the holidays — not these holidays at least. It’s just not possible.

    Making toys and games usually takes about 18 months from “concept to store shelves,” Nick Karamanos, Mattel’s senior vice president of entertainment partnerships tells The Hollywood Reporter.

    Where were you at those pitch meetings 12-18 months ago, Nick? (Just kidding — until I see my daughters’ Christmas lists, perhaps.)

    Karamanos and his counterparts at Netflix (and probably Hasbro, though they didn’t respond to our emails) are on it. Their stuff will begin to come out in phases from spring 2026 through Christmas 2026. On the bright side, KPop Demon Hunters 2 should release to no shortage of merch.

    “This is warp-speed for us,” Karamanos said. “It is absolutely the fastest we’ve ever done.”

    To put it another way: Santa’s elves couldn’t even keep up with Karamanos’ assembly line, so don’t bank on that loophole either, kids.

    And Netflix is “wildly” expediting the product-selection process on its end, Karamanos said. Some products have already been dreamt up by Mattel and approved by the streamer — those products (Karamanos could not elaborate on what they are) will be the first ones out. It helps to play catch-up with a company you’ve worked with before: Mattel makes toys for Netflix series Stranger Things, Squid Game and Bridgerton.

    Pushing the pedal to the metal here will not push aside quality control, “a huge point of emphasis for us,” Karamanos promised. Another is providing what he called “newness” in its product line. In other words, Mattel isn’t just making Barbie dolls with long, purple braids (though there will probably be those too) here. The excellent music of KPop Demon Hunters is “on the table, absolutely” for his line, Karamanos said.

    Karamanos says he’s cool sharing the (eventual) spoils with competitor Hasbro. “They have a core competency and they’re going to create products in their areas that we wouldn’t, and so I wish them well.”

    A person with knowledge of the deal told THR that Mattel is making about 80 percent of the consumer products in the Mattel/Hasbro split.

    KPop Demon Hunters

    Courtesy of Netflix

    HUNTR/X fans won’t be totally SOL this Xmas. Netflix’s own shop carries KPop Demon Hunters clothing, Funko Pop! figures, light sticks created by Copan Global, etc., and themed apparel continues to roll out at AmazonZara KidsTargetGapOld Navy and Hot Topic.

    One thing Netflix (and Mattel and Hasbro and every other company named in this story) definitely doesn’t want you doing is buying unlicensed KPop Demon Hunters toys (on, say, Etsy) or generic knockoffs, like “Korean Movie Figures.”

    Netflix says it will “work closely with our IP security team to take action where appropriate.” They’ll have help.

    “We certainly would help Netflix go and pursue those counterfeits,” Karamanos said.

    Anthony Maglio

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