Record-breaking film secures follow-up under exclusive deal
Netflix has confirmed a sequel to the record-breaking animated film KPop Demon Hunters, as part of a multi-year writing and directing deal with its creators.
KPop Demon Hunters, produced by Sony Pictures Animation, is Netflix’s most watched film of all time, racking up more than 325.1m views since it launched in August last year, and has been nominated for best animated film at this year’s Oscars.
Writers and directors Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans will return to helm the second film and have signed an exclusive writing and directing deal across animation.
In a statement, Kang said the first film, which follows the story of KPop band Huntr/x as they fight demons through the power of their music, was “only the beginning”.
She added: “I feel immense pride as a Korean filmmaker that the audience wants more from this Korean story and our Korean characters. There’s so much more to this world we have built and I’m excited to show you.”
Appelhans said he and Kang were “excited to write [the characters’] next chapter, challenge them and watch them evolve — and continue pushing the boundaries of how music, animation and story can come together”.
Bela Bajaria, Netflix chief content officer: “With KPop Demon Hunters, Maggie and Chris didn’t just reach audiences, they ignited a global fandom that crossed languages, generations, and genres.
“We’re incredibly proud to deepen our partnership with them and, together with our partners at Sony Pictures Animation, build this universe in ways that will surprise and delight fans all over the world.”
Kristine Belson and Damien de Froberville, presidents of Sony Pictures Animation, said: “Championing the bold creative visions of our filmmakers is at the heart of everything we do at Sony Pictures Animation.
“Maggie and Chris brought their incredibly distinct perspectives to this film, telling a story audiences embraced around the globe. We are thrilled to work with them to expand their vision in the next chapter.”
KPop Demon Hunters was produced under a pay 1 deal between Sony Pictures Entertainment and Netflix, struck in 2020 that Broadcast International sister title Screen understands was worth around $3bn. In January, the company’s announced an expansion to this deal, which is due to roll out later this year as Sony’s individual territory licences expire.
The pact builds on the parties’ existing pay 1 deal for the US, Germany, and Southeast Asia and is expected to reach full global availability on Netflix by early 2029.
As with all pay 1 deals, it kicks in after full theatrical and home entertainment windows. As part of the arrangement, which according to reports is worth in the region of $7bn, Netflix will additionally license rights to select SPE feature film and television library titles.
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