Despite KPop Demon Hunter's box office victory, Netflix boss has no plans in changing strategy, saying the movie was a success "because it was released on Netflix first"

KPop Demon Hunters still showcasing Rumi, Zoey, and Mira eating and shouting
(Image credit: Netflix)

Just because new Netflix movie KPop Demon Hunters saw huge success at the box office doesn't mean the streamer will start releasing all of its content on the big screen.

When asked whether Netflix is looking into deeper theatrical distribution, co-CEO Ted Sarandos said that "there’s no change in the strategy," at a recent earnings conference. "Our strategy is to give our members exclusive first-run movies on Netflix," said Sarandos.

Sarandos was asked this question due to the streamer’s most-viewed movie ever, KPop Demon Hunters, soaring to number 1 at the box office, which was a first for the streamer. The movie hit Netflix on August 23 and has so far been viewed 400 million times. The streamer decided to take a singalong version of the film to the big screen for one weekend only, where it earned a whopping $18 million worldwide, as per Box Office Mojo.

This does make sense, as KPop Demon Hunters did not have a lot of buzz at first, but through the power of social media and word of mouth, Netflix viewers quickly flocked to the film. Sarandos said that "superfans" made KPop Demon Hunters a hit, and “drove the recommendation engine." The Netflix boss added, "If anything, this actually reinforces our strategy, because being on Netflix actually allowed the film to build momentum."

Junior Social Media Editor, GamesRadar+

I'm the Junior Social Media Editor here at GamesRadar+, handling all of Total Film's social platforms. However, I also write, covering all things film and TV for the site's entertainment section. I joined GamesRadar+ in 2023 and have been here ever since. I previously worked in communications after graduating with an MA in journalism. In my spare time, you can find me binging horror movies or getting lost in a cosy little game on my Switch.

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