Banned Netflix Film Could Steal Golden Globe from Demon Slayer
Two animated blockbusters are competing for a major award, but one has a surprising advantage despite sparking major controversy. A global anime phenomenon is up against a record-breaking musical that was even prohibited by a school. Which film will come out on top at the Golden Globes?
The race for Best Animated Film at the upcoming Golden Globe Awards is heating up, with a couple of major titles dominating the discussion. Among the nominees, which include Arco, Little Amelie, Elio, and Zootopia 2, the competition is fiercest between the anime epic Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle and the streaming sensation KPop Demon Hunters.
A Streaming Juggernaut's Edge
Although Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle delivered the stunning animation and powerful storytelling its fanbase expected, KPop Demon Hunters holds an unexpected advantage. The musical fantasy from Netflix exploded into a worldwide cultural event, captivating audiences with its unique blend of K-pop music, thrilling action, and colorful characters.
Its incredible reach, becoming the platform's most-watched movie of all time, gave it a cultural footprint that few films can match. This widespread, mainstream appeal might just be the factor that gives it the winning momentum over its critically acclaimed competitor.
Why a School Outlawed the Movie
The film's immense success hasn't come without friction. A school in the UK, the Lilliput Church of England Infant School in Poole, has prohibited the movie due to worries it conflicts with the institution’s “Christian ethos.” Officials barred students from performing songs from the soundtrack after some in the community raised issues with the story's demonic elements.
The school specifically pointed to lyrics from the Saja Boys, a fictional group of five demons in the story. Their songs, which touch on themes of temptation, were deemed unsuitable for the school's environment. In a message to families, the school requested that children refrain from singing “these songs at school out of respect for those who find the themes at odds with their faith”.
However, the decision wasn't universally accepted. Some parents criticized the restriction as “unfair and silly.” The acting Head Teacher, Lloyd Allington, recognized the pushback, mentioning that many parents had pointed out the positive messages in other songs like “Golden.” The school clarified that the rule aims to respect the community's diverse beliefs and teach students to support peers with different values.
An Anime Powerhouse Aims Higher
Meanwhile, Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle has been carving its own path of historic success. The movie has smashed box-office records, establishing itself as a true international powerhouse and the highest-earning Japanese movie ever made. It also holds the title for the top-grossing R-rated animated feature.
This incredible performance has propelled the film into the top tier of industry recognition, starting with its Golden Globe nomination. Executives at Crunchyroll are now looking to build on this momentum for a significant awards push. Rahul Purini, President of Crunchyroll, spoke about the film's Oscar potential.
It’s important for them to pay attention to and be part of and consider it seriously. But the other thing I will say is, going back to be being in a privileged position, we have some giants that have taken anime to the Oscars that we get to build off of Miyazaki, Makoto Shinkai, with his last movie Suzume.
Mitchel Berger, the EVP of Global Commerce, added that being part of these conversations helps elevate the entire anime genre. He noted it showcases the artistry, craftsmanship, and dedication that goes into creating these works.