Netflix animation beats Disney and Pixar, OST 'Golden' adds second trophy

Netflix animated film "KPop Demon Hunters" claimed two prizes at the 31st Critics Choice Awards, winning Best Animated Feature and Best Song. Directed by Korean Canadian filmmaker Maggie Kang, the film beat major studio contenders including Disney's "Zootopia 2" and Pixar's "Elio" to take home the top animation honor.

At the ceremony held on January 4 (local time) in Santa Monica, California, "KPop Demon Hunters" triumphed over "Zootopia 2," "Elio," "In Your Dreams," and "Arco" in the Best Animated Feature category. The film's soundtrack "Golden" also secured the Best Song award, recognizing the film's musical achievements.

A K-Pop Girl Group's Battle Against Evil Spirits

"KPop Demon Hunters" tells the story of a fictional K-pop girl group, Huntr/x, who uses their music to fight evil spirits and save the world. The film's unique blend of K-pop idol culture and fantasy action has resonated with audiences globally.

The theme song "Golden" achieved significant commercial success, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 for a non-consecutive eight weeks. The song was co-created by EJAE and Mark Sonnenblick, both of whom accepted the award at the ceremony.

The Critics Choice Awards is organized by the Critics Choice Association (CCA), comprising approximately 600 film and television critics and journalists across North America. The ceremony is widely regarded as a key predictor of Academy Award outcomes.

Emerging as Oscar and Grammy Frontrunner

The wins carry symbolic significance as a K-pop-themed animation has defeated traditional powerhouses Disney and Pixar. The achievement also validates the competitiveness of Netflix's original animated content against major Hollywood studio productions.

Following the Critics Choice wins, "KPop Demon Hunters" has emerged as a strong contender for the Academy Awards. The soundtrack "Golden" is also nominated for five categories at the upcoming 68th Grammy Awards, including Song of the Year, ensuring continued attention throughout the awards season.

Sources

• The Korea Times, "'KPop Demon Hunters' wins Best Animated Feature, Best Song at Critics Choice", 2026.01.05

https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/entertainment/films/20260105/kpop-demon-hunters-wins-best-animated-feature-best-song-at-critics-choice

• Jungkyung Sisa Focus, "KPop Demon Hunters Claims Double Win at Critics Choice Awards", 2026.01.06

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