This summer, the entertainment world has been buzzing over a groundbreaking film that merges K-pop and anime. The musical, featuring a K-pop girl group as monster fighters, is now Netflix’s No. 2 most-watched English-language movie, with over 184 million views since its release in June 2025-08-17 00:53:00. Despite its massive success, Sony Pictures finds itself on the sidelines, having sold distribution rights to Netflix.
- Sony Pictures sidelines as K-pop film succeeds
- Netflix's No. 2 most-watched English-language movie
- Sony's earnings capped at $20 million
- Pandemic led to reliance on Netflix distribution
- Uncertainty over theatrical success remains debated
- Netflix controls sequels and music revenue
The film’s soundtrack is also making waves, with multiple songs hitting Spotify’s global Top 50 and the single “Golden” topping the Billboard Hot 100. While Sony Pictures Animation conceived and financed the project, their agreement with Netflix caps potential earnings at around $20 million, a mere fraction of what a theatrical release could have generated.
This situation raises an intriguing question: could this film have thrived in theaters? Many believe that the unique blend of K-pop fandom and Netflix’s algorithm played crucial roles in its success. Here are some key points to consider:
- The film is Netflix’s first animated blockbuster, highlighting the platform’s growing influence.
- Sony’s decision to sell distribution rights reflects the uncertainty of the pandemic era.
- The soundtrack’s success underscores the potential for cross-media revenue streams.
- Future sequels and merchandise could further expand the franchise’s reach.
As the entertainment industry continues to evolve, will studios rethink their distribution strategies to capture the full potential of their projects? The future of animated films may depend on it.
