KPop Demon Hunters

I've been watching the trailer on repeat since it first dropped, and after finally seeing the full movie, I can honestly say it exceeded all my expectations. What stood out to me the most was the way it explored the theme of self-acceptance. The characters aren't perfect-they make mistakes, they have fears, and they face struggles-but that's what makes them so real and relatable. The film reminds us that it's okay to be flawed, and that we don't need to hide our insecurities from the people who care about us. Vulnerability isn't weakness-it's a kind of strength. And sometimes, showing our true selves, even the parts we think are "too much," is exactly what helps us grow and connect more deeply with others.

The music was another huge highlight for me. Every song was super catchy and I've already added several tracks to my Spotify playlist. I also loved the performance scenes-they were dynamic, visually stunning, and full of personality.

Visually, the film is breathtaking. The character designs, costumes, and animation are all so detailed and vibrant. You can clearly see the love and effort that went into every frame. Each character has a distinct style that reflects their personality, and the fusion of K-pop aesthetics with demon-hunting action creates a world that feels both exciting and immersive.

And I can't forget to mention the "enemies to lovers" subplot-it had me hooked from the start! That kind of dynamic is one of my favorites, and this one was done so well. The chemistry, the tension, the emotional payoff... it gave me all the feels. I laughed, I teared up, and I was totally invested in their journey. By the end, I was left wanting more-and honestly, I really hope there's a sequel on the way.

When your 13-year-old starts humming the soundtrack before the credits roll and your 11-year-old immediately asks "Can we watch it again?", you know an animated film has struck gold... even if that gold comes with some familiar copper underneath.

*** I have to, have to, have to... UPDATE this review here (rest all is original) I had to sit through this movie a second time! Because my daughter wanted a rewatch! And TBH I didn't hate it either ***

Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans' KPop Demon Hunters is genuinely delightful visual candy that marries supernatural action with infectious pop sensibilities.

The genre-bending animated film borrows from pop music and action cinema, creating something unexpectedly charming. Sony Pictures Animation continues their innovation streak with gorgeous visuals that make every demon-slaying sequence pop like a music video, whilst the soundtrack absolutely slaps... proper earworm material.

The film's greatest strength lies in its sincere embrace of K-pop culture without descending into parody. It's endearing, beautifully animated crowdpleaser, with a dorkily sincere love for the pop culture phenomena it embeds itself in. However, beneath the stunning animation lies a disappointingly predictable story that feels like we've seen this particular "misfit teens save the world" template countless times before.

The fighting is not horrible but is bad, and the action sequences, whilst visually spectacular, lack genuine tension or stakes. It's humorously subversive and a funny but brutal commentary on its own industry, which adds clever meta-commentary that adults will appreciate.

Who'll Love This: K-pop fans, animation enthusiasts, families wanting something fresh, and anyone who enjoyed Spider-Verse's visual innovation.

My kids were absolutely transfixed: the 13-year-old appreciated the meta-commentary whilst the younger one was purely there for the demon-slaying spectacle. Teen girls will worship at its altar.

Rating: 7/10 (Gorgeous spectacle that prioritises style over substance, but what magnificent style it is) Probably 8/10 for my kids.

The movie offers a great explanation and reassurance that your insecurities and your mistakes do not make you who you are. It has some of the best twists I've seen in a long time. It allows a great look into Korean pop culture and the songs not only help with the plot but also aren't a typical Disney song. The animation is stunning and beautiful. My only complaint is the lip sinc for some of the songs don't quite match up but to have a complete original movie that can be enjoyed by all audiences and never lags in plot, storytelling, or animation is what makes this movie so great. Also this movie took 9 years to make. People have put their blood, sweat, and tears into it. I just wish it was more available on other platforms.

This was AMAZING! I watched it out of curiosity more than anything and I ended up loving it! It is such a refreshing theme and concept. A bit like modern day girl power. Also reminded me at times of the powerpuff girls!

I don't really know or follow anything about KPop but this seems rammed full with K-pop culture references. Almost like a beginners guide.

The music is classic K-Pop though.

I just loved it. Probably not the most helpful review. But I really enjoyed so many aspects. The storyline, character development, relationship dynamics, the music, the production design... all of it!

I loved each individual female character as well.

Will definitely watch it again!

This was a fun ride. There's a lot of moments where I was laughing because of the references they put in it. The animation style reminds me a little of a fluid stop motion? It looks good especially paired with the action and all that bright coloring it was very nice and not too flashy in the eyes.

The highlight for me would be the music. All the music in this got my head banging too definitely saving it on my playlist. The lyrics have depth and it works well woven into the plot especially the bigger numbers. The voice actors and singer they hired for this fit nicely the only issue I had was sometimes it's too soft whenever they talk but too loud whenever they sing... there are moments also where in the animation expression didn't quite merge well with the voice acting. I also rewatched this in Filipino dub and was surprised to hear them also dub the music!! Listening to the songs in my native language felt good.

Overall it's a good wholesome movie that teaches you to accept yourself even if you're not perfect, get broken or make mistakes. A big plus as well for enemies to lovers trope. I'm always a sucker for it. It made me laugh but also made me cry. I wish so much for a sequel.