KPop Demon Hunters Returns to Theaters — Netflix’s Animated Hit Reignites Box Office Buzz

Hollywood’s Halloween weekend box office remained muted as no major studios released new titles. Universal’s horror sequel Black Phone 2 led with $7.6 million, while Netflix’s animated hit KPop Demon Hunters made a limited theatrical comeback across AMC Theatres. The weekend reflected one of the quietest October closes in recent years, with no film projected to hit eight figures in domestic earnings.

The Numbers Behind the Weekend

Universal and Blumhouse’s Black Phone 2 topped the North American box office, earning $2.3 million on Friday and an estimated $7.6 million for the three-day frame. The total now stands at $61 million through Sunday, slightly behind its 2022 predecessor’s pace. Netflix’s KPop Demon Hunters returned for a three-day theatrical run at 2,890 AMC locations after its record-breaking streaming success. While Netflix did not release official gross figures, industry analysts note that the reissue primarily serves to strengthen the streamer’s relationship with AMC Theatres following earlier collaborations. Meanwhile, Focus Features’ Bugonia expanded into 2,043 theaters, collecting $4.4 million. Back to the Future also celebrated its 40th anniversary with a strong $3.9 million reissue.

Industry Reactions and Analyst Commentary

Box office analyst Paul Dergarabedian noted that “the lack of new wide releases over Halloween underscores studios’ cautious approach to scheduling during an event-heavy season.” Trade experts suggest Netflix’s theatrical move for KPop Demon Hunters marks a test for future hybrid release models. Variety film critic J. Kim Murphy added, “This partnership with AMC shows Netflix’s gradual pivot toward limited theatrical events to complement its streaming dominance.”

What It Means for Theaters and Studios

The tepid weekend numbers highlight a growing reliance on established franchises and event re-releases. The performance of Black Phone 2 and KPop Demon Hunters demonstrates that sequels and animation remain steady performers even during slow periods. For AMC, the KPop Demon Hunters collaboration provides valuable foot traffic amid a traditionally quiet period. The strategy also strengthens its partnership with Netflix ahead of upcoming releases like Stranger Things: The Movie.

Upcoming Releases and Trends

With Halloween behind, the next major test for the box office arrives mid-November with Disney’s Moana 2 and Warner Bros.’ Mortal Kombat: Ascension. Netflix is expected to continue exploring selective theatrical engagements for high-demand titles, following KPop Demon Hunters and Glass Onion. As year-end awards season approaches, Focus Features’ Bugonia could see expanded traction thanks to strong festival reviews and Oscar buzz for Emma Stone.

Sources

Official References:

• Variety (J. Kim Murphy)

• Yahoo Entertainment

• AMC Theatres

• Box Office Mojo

• The Numbers