What truly makes a film or show a phenomenon on Netflix? Is it a star-studded cast, a massive budget, or a high-octane action plot? For years, the streaming giant’s charts were dominated by films that ticked all those boxes, with one particular title reigning supreme. Dwayne Johnson and Ryan Reynolds’ blockbuster collaboration, Red Notice, seemed untouchable, a testament to the power of star wattage and global reach. But crowns on Netflix are not eternal. The question now lingers: what has ascended to take its place, leaving the A-list titans humbled?

Netflix's movie landscape is now ruled by an unlikely new king, or specifically queens?

An animated musical, K-pop Demon Hunters, has officially claimed the title of Netflix's most-watched film ever. This animated spectacle from Sony Pictures Animation has amassed an astonishing million views since its debut in June. While Red Notice, released in 2021 and starring Dwayne Johnson, Ryan Reynolds, and Gal Gadot, had 230.9 million views, earning a 37% Rotten Tomatoes score. Conversely, K-pop Demon Hunters, which premiered in 2025, has surpassed it with 236 million views and boasts a stellar 97% Rotten Tomatoes score.

The film's remarkable success is an example of its compelling story, dynamic visuals, and a soundtrack that has become a global sensation, with four songs even charting on the Billboard Hot 100. With weeks remaining in its 91-day premiere period, K-pop Demon Hunters is poised to widen further the gap between itself and the now-second-place Red Notice, solidifying its legacy as a cultural phenomenon.

'KPop Demon Hunters' Dwarfs Legendary Netflix Animated Movies to Snatch The Ultimate Crown 

The success of a film like K-pop Demon Hunters highlights the incredible quality and immense popularity of animated movies on the streaming platform.

From groundbreaking original productions to beloved classics, the genre offers a treasure trove of entertainment for all ages. Guillermo del Toro's Pinocchio is an absolute masterpiece and an essential viewing experience. The film, a visually stunning stop-motion re-imagining of the classic tale, delves into mature themes of grief and loss with a beautiful and haunting sensibility. It holds a remarkable 96% critics' score on Rotten Tomatoes.

For those who appreciate a blend of humor, heart, and stunning visuals, The Mitchells vs. the Machines is a standout choice. This Oscar-nominated film is a chaotic and hilarious adventure about a dysfunctional family forced to save the world from a robot apocalypse. The movie's unique animation style, which cleverly incorporates hand-drawn doodles and visual gags, perfectly complements its energetic and witty narrative. It has a 97% critics' score on Rotten Tomatoes. The list does not end here; there are more animated masterpieces to fill one's leisure time.

Netflix Top 10 Movies Ooze Child-Like-Innocence as 50% of Them Turn Out to Be Animated

Do you think the upcoming releases of Netflix can replace the new crown holder? Let us know in the comments below.