KPop Demon Hunters creator Maggie Kang has ruled out the idea of a live-action version of her record-breaking Netflix animated movie, saying it would lose the essence that made the film special.
Speaking to the BBC, Kang explained that the film’s tone and humor are deeply rooted in animation, making it nearly impossible to translate into a realistic setting. “There are so many elements of the tone and comedy that are so suited for animation,” she said. “It’s really hard to imagine these characters in a live-action world. It would feel too grounded. So totally it wouldn’t work for me.”
Co-director Chris Appelhans echoed her views, noting that animation allows for a level of exaggeration and fantasy that live action cannot match. “Rumi can be this goofy comedian and then singing and doing a spinning back-kick a second later,” he said. “The joy of animation is how far you can push and elevate what’s possible.”
Since premiering on Netflix in June, KPop Demon Hunters has become the platform’s most-watched movie in history. The film’s soundtrack made history too, topping Billboard charts and placing four songs in the Hot 100’s top 10 — with lead single “Golden” spending eight weeks at No. 1.
Despite its success, Kang remains focused on expanding the story through animation. She has already hinted at plans for a sequel exploring the backstories of Huntr/x’s other members, Zoey and Mira.
KPop Demon Hunters is now streaming on Netflix.
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