Ummm… Did Sony and Netflix just make me a fan of K-Pop music? Bursting at the seams with neon-infused style, and with a soundtrack that’ll quickly work its way into your regular playlist, KPop Demon Hunters is Netflix’s best new movie so far this year.
Word-of-mouth worked wonders in this movie’s favour, because upon first hearing about it, my interest was almost non-existent. Well, here I am keeping that word-of-mouth going, telling you to go watch it. Even if, like me, you have no interest in K-Pop culture, this has such an infectious energy and ultra-cool style, that it becomes so much more than its wacky title implies. It seamlessly weaves Korean music fandom and pop culture around an epic story of good vs. evil. The music flows flawlessly into the action and narrative, allowing two genres that should seemingly clash sing in harmony.
Its animation style is aligned with some of Sony’s other projects like the Spider-Verse movies or The Mitchells vs. the Machines. Despite an initial look of familiarity, it really makes that style its own, embracing the worldwide sensation of K-Pop, which goes hand in hand with this type of animation. The neon bathed stadiums and streets of Seoul will light up your living room with a gorgeous pink glow. The movement and expressiveness of characters is stunning and hyper-stylized. It’s high energy, but it rarely, if ever crosses the line into being too much all at once.
The music works in tandem with the beautiful visuals, becoming such an integral part of this story and these characters. The on-stage performances are a lot of fun, but it’s the moments the film works it’s songs into the story - whether during an action sequence or two characters having a heart to heart - those are the moments the music will really work its way into your head and heart. The original songs are catchy, the score is electric, and it’s a key ingredient in why this movie works so well on an emotional level too. The music is just as much of a character as our three demon-slaying protagonists.
Don’t let the name of the movie stop you from watching the best animated movie of 2025 so far. KPop Demon Hunters will convert you to a member of the growing fandom. Dripping with style and rhythm for days, this is a wholly unique, infectiously energetic must-watch. Now, excuse me while I go listen to the soundtrack again.
4/5