A Wildly Popular Movie Meets the Film World’s Most Revered Label
The popular Netflix film 'KPop Demon Hunters' has been added to the Criterion Collection, sparking debate among film enthusiasts. Critics argue that the inclusion of such a mainstream commercial hit dilutes the prestige of the label.
Why it matters
It highlights the tension between commercial success and critical canonization in the digital age of cinema.
KPop Demon Hunters ’ inclusion in the high-class cinema catalogue may signal a changing tide.
Illustration by The Atlantic. Source: Criterion. August 28, 2026, 9 AM ET Share Save Over the past year, KPop Demon Hunters seems to have completely overtaken culture. Since premiering on Netflix in June 2025, the animated film has been watched nearly 650 million times and, according to Nielsen, accounted for some 20.5 billion viewing minutes last year. The soundtrack topped Billboard charts that fall; Spirit Halloween instantly sold out of licensed costumes.
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