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Just days ago Demon hunters in kpop Expected to win gold at the Oscars, Netflix has inked deals for directors Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans to return for the sequel as part of a new multi-year writing and directing pact.
Sony Pictures Animation is behind the sequel as well as the original animated film, which became the most-watched film in Netflix history and spawned several hit songs. The film tells the story of the Korean pop group HUNTR/X, whose music is secretly the key to stopping demons from invading our world.
No date has been set for the sequel, although the previously announced date is unlikely to be 2029 given the number of years it takes to create an animated project of this size. Kang and Appelhans are said to be only in the early stages, and will turn their attention to the film in earnest after awards season.
“I feel very proud as a Korean director because the audience wants more of this Korean story and our Korean characters,” Kang said in a statement. “There is so much more in this world that we have built and I am excited to show it to you. This is just the beginning.” Appelhans added: “These characters are like family to us, their world has become our second home. We are excited to write the next chapter for them, challenge them and watch them develop – and continue to push the boundaries of how we combine music, animation and story.”
The film is up for Best Animated Feature and Best Original Song for “Golden” at the Academy Awards.
Its massive streaming success has sparked debate around Hollywood over whether Sony should produce the film for theaters instead of Netflix as part of a deal it struck with the streaming company. Those inside the studio have maintained that the film, which didn’t hit the streaming service until several weeks after its release, needed time to find an audience, and wasn’t likely to happen in theaters.
“with Demon hunters in kpopNot only did Maggie and Chris reach audiences, they ignited a global fan base that transcended languages, generations and genres. “We are incredibly proud to deepen our partnership with them and, together with our partners at Sony Pictures Animation, build out this universe in ways that will surprise and delight fans around the world,” said Bela Bajaria, Chief Content Officer at Netflix.
Dan Lin, Head of Film at Netflix, added: “Maggie and Chris were brave enough to take a bold creative step by telling a story that was deeply personal and broke cultural barriers. At Netflix, our goal is to make someone’s favorite movie and they did that by making the most popular Netflix movie of all time! There are so many stories to tell, and we can’t wait to bring more HUNTR/X to fans everywhere.”
As for Sony, Kristen Belson and Damien de Froberville, Head of Animation, noted: Supporting 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 that audiences around the world have embraced. We are excited to work with them to expand their vision into the next chapter.
Kang is repped by UTA, LEDE and Johnson Shapiro. Appelhans is repped by UTA and Johnson Shapiro.
